“With her experience, charisma, and personality, Alex is the perfect fit for this role,” said Högner, explaining the decision to entrust Popp with the captain’s armband of her beloved club. “It’s obviously a great honor, and I’m also proud to be given the BVB captain’s armband in my very first year. Of course, I hope the girls will continue to approach me with the same openness, that I can inspire them and share my experience with them so that we can achieve our goals together.”
The previous captain, Paula Reimann, is stepping back into a supporting role at her own request: “It has always filled me with great pride to wear the BVB captain’s armband. But I believe that, in the current situation, an experienced leader can provide the team with new and important momentum.” Högner has the utmost respect for the 24-year-old’s decision: “Putting the team before her personal feelings shows true greatness.” Reimann will, however, continue to take on responsibility and remain on the six-member team council, which also includes Dana Marquardt and Yasu Wöhrn.
Popp will lead the women’s team onto the field as captain for the first time tomorrow, Saturday, against AS Roma (1 p.m. at Rote Erde Stadium) and five days later at the same venue for the season opener against Arminia Bielefeld (20 August, 19:00).