Boss Lady: Windhoek City Appoint New Club President
FNB Namibian Women Super League team Windhoek City FC has taken a bold step forward by appointing Carmen Rene Adendorff as the club’s new president.
A trailblazer in futsal and football, Adendorff has made history in various capacities, notably as the first female coach in South Africa to win a provincial futsal league with an unbeaten record.
Her impressive résumé includes serving as the team manager for Cape Town Titans, a club competing in the National Futsal League, as well as managing three junior futsal leagues in the Western Cape. Overseeing 80 active teams, she played a crucial role in grassroots futsal development, further solidifying her impact on the game.
Beyond her achievements on the pitch, Adendorff’s influence reaches global football governance. She has worked with FIFA across multiple departments, contributing to software development for the FIFA Futsal PlayStation game, serving in FIFA’s Advertising Team, and creating digital content featured on FIFA’s official social media platforms. In 2022, she was among just 11 content creators globally selected by FIFA to cover the buildup to the FIFA Men’s World Cup.
Adendorff has also played a key role in sports marketing and development. As part of MN Sports Marketing & Management Agency in Zambia, she worked on marketing strategies, social media engagement, and advertising campaigns while also assisting in the Football Project Africa to Europe Tour, ensuring seamless logistics for players seeking international exposure.
A strong advocate for women’s empowerment in sport, she spearheaded South Africa’s first-ever free accredited futsal coaching course for women, opening doors for aspiring female coaches. Her collaboration with the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sports further showcased her commitment to youth and sports development in the Western Cape.
Now, as she steps into her new role as president of Windhoek City FC, Adendorff is eager to lead the club into a new era.
Carmen Rene Adendorff spoke to Footy Namibia on Her Appointment in an exclusive interview.
Q: What inspired you to take on the role of president at Windhoek City FC, and what excites you most about this challenge?
Adendorff: I have always been passionate about football, particularly creating opportunities for women in the sport. Taking on the role of president at Windhoek City FC felt like a natural step in continuing to drive that vision. What excites me the most is the challenge of building a competitive and sustainable club that not only performs well on the pitch but also has a strong impact off the field, especially in areas like youth development, player welfare, and community engagement.
Q: With your experience working with FIFA and in South African football, how do you plan to use that expertise to elevate Windhoek City FC?
Adendorff: My experience working with FIFA and in South African football has given me valuable insight into football development, club structures, and strategic planning. I plan to leverage that knowledge by implementing professional structures within the club, enhancing player conditioning and development programs, and creating commercial opportunities that will ensure financial sustainability. Additionally, networking with key stakeholders in the football industry will help us build partnerships that can benefit the club in the long run.
Q: Women’s football is steadily growing in Namibia and across Africa. How do you see your appointment contributing to this momentum?
Adendorff: My appointment is a reflection of the progress we are making in women’s football, not just in Namibia but across the continent. By leading Windhoek City FC, I hope to contribute to this momentum by ensuring that our women’s team is given the same level of professionalism and support as the men’s teams. Initiatives such as our sanitary drive, mentorship programs, and community engagement projects are part of a broader vision to create an inclusive and thriving football environment for women.
Q: What can fans and stakeholders expect from Windhoek City FC under your leadership?
Adendorff: Fans and stakeholders can expect a club that is ambitious, well-structured, and deeply connected to its community. We are focused on creating a competitive team on the field while also ensuring that we engage with our supporters, build strong partnerships, and develop young talent. Our upcoming participation in the U21 Orlando Pirates Cup in South Africa is just one of many steps we are taking to put Windhoek City FC on the map. There is a lot to look forward to, and we are committed to making this club a powerhouse in Namibian football.
A New Era for Windhoek City FC
With Carmen Rene Adendorff at the helm, Windhoek City FC is set for an exciting new chapter. Her experience, leadership, and passion for football development make her a perfect fit to drive the club forward. Fans and stakeholders alike can anticipate a dynamic, well-structured, and progressive Windhoek City FC under her leadership.
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