Dina Orschmann: The rise of the Union women and a dream comes true!

Dina Orschmann: The rise of the Union women and a dream comes true!

Developments in women's football are in full swing and the Bundesliga has proven to be increasingly popular. An example of this is Dina Orschmann, striker at 1. FC Union Berlin, who has experienced her personal journey and the changes in women's football first hand. With two promotions behind them, the team starts the new season on September 7th, 2023 against 1. FC Nürnberg. In an interview, Orschmann highlights the positive changes in the club, in particular the professionalization of the players, which was carried out in 2023. This step has had a significant impact on the athletes' everyday lives, which has sustainably improved the conditions for sport.

The solidarity within the team is particularly valuable. Orschmann sees herself not only as a player, but also in a leadership role, which she has already taken on several times. Returning to the team with her twin sister Katja is also a childhood dream for both of them, which was realized in the Union Berlin squad. Orschmann emphasizes the importance of spectator numbers, which are essential for the positive development of women's football.

Growth and challenges

The number of spectators in the women's Bundesliga has increased significantly in recent years. In the 2023/2024 season, the league had a total of 379,653 spectators in 22 match days, which marked a new record. Compared to the previous record of 359,404, this represents a pleasing increase. On average, 2,876 spectators were present per game, which increased the gaming revenue per club to 370,000 euros. In addition, the reach on free TV increased significantly, with an average of 390,000 viewers for 31 games in the previous season.

But despite this positive development, the clubs are facing challenges. According to the season report from the German Football Association (DFB), most clubs are not yet profitable. The average negative season result per club is around 1.9 million euros. DFB Vice President Sabine Mammitzsch still sees progress and sees the negative result as part of the investment in women's football. The Bundesliga will be expanded from twelve to 14 teams next season, which offers additional opportunities.

Focus on the future

The players' wages are also showing a positive development. The average basic monthly salary rose to around 4,000 euros, which offers the athletes more security. Nevertheless, a warning signal is flashing, as the DFB emphasizes the need to prepare for the time after the players' active careers. There is a clear need for professional growth and Mammitzsch is calling for more speed in professionalization in women's football.

In summary, both the team dynamics at Union Berlin mentioned by Dina Orschmann and the league's increasing viewership and financial records as a whole are helping to usher in a positive, albeit challenging, season in women's football. Orschmann sees a successful future for women's soccer and hopes to see the fan culture grow organically as the sport continues to grow in popularity.