Marten Glotzbach: The Man Behind Sarina Wiegman’s Success
Marten Glotzbach is a highly experienced Dutch football coach, mentor, and economics teacher, widely recognised for his long-standing contribution to football development in the Netherlands. He is also known as the husband of Sarina Wiegman, the head coach of the England Women’s National Team. While his wife has achieved global recognition, Marten has built a respected career in his own right, combining education and football to shape young talent.
His professional journey reflects dedication, discipline, and a deep understanding of both sport and academics. Rather than seeking public attention, he has focused on grassroots development, mentoring, and coaching, making a meaningful impact within Dutch football.
Marten Glotzbach’s Early Life and Nationality
Marten Glotzbach Age and Background
Marten Glotzbach was born on 2 July 1968 in The Hague, Netherlands. As of 2026, he is 57 years old. He has spent most of his life in South Holland, where he developed his passion for football and education.
There has been some confusion regarding his nationality, with certain sources suggesting German roots. However, the most reliable information confirms that Marten Glotzbach is Dutch by nationality, having been born and raised in the Netherlands and building his entire professional career there.
Education and Football Passion
Marten has a strong academic background that complements his coaching career. He pursued a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Marketing and Commercial Economics at HEAO Den Haag from 1989 to 1994. Later, he completed a Bachelor of Education (BEd) in Economics at HRO The Hague between 2006 and 2009.
Alongside his academic journey, his passion for football continued to grow. He obtained several coaching qualifications through the KNVB (Royal Dutch Football Association), including:
- UEFA A Licence
- UEFA B Licence
- UEFA C Licence
These certifications demonstrate his technical expertise and commitment to professional coaching standards.
Marten Glotzbach’s Career: A Blend of Football and Education
A Dedicated Football Coach
Marten Glotzbach’s football career spans more than two decades. He has worked with various clubs across the Netherlands, gaining extensive experience in both youth and senior football development.
His coaching journey includes roles at:
- HV & CV Quick (youth and senior teams)
- RKSV GDA (coach and youth coordinator)
- JAC, SVV Scheveningen (senior team coaching)
- RKVV Westlandia (head coach role)
- Sportclub Monster (trainer and coach)
- HBS Den Haag (assistant coach and youth development)
His experience reflects a strong focus on player development, tactical organisation, and team discipline.
Role at ADO Den Haag
One of the most significant milestones in Marten Glotzbach’s career came with his involvement at ADO Den Haag. He worked within the club’s development system and later progressed to more senior roles.
- Coach of ADO Den Haag MO17 (2018–2024)
- Head coach of ADO Den Haag Women (2024–2025)
During his time as head coach, he played a key role in guiding the team and developing young players. Notably, he also coached his daughter, which added a unique personal dimension to his professional role.
Economics Teacher and Mentor
In addition to his football career, Marten Glotzbach has been a dedicated educator. He worked as an economics teacher at Segbroek College in The Hague from 2000 to 2025.
His role extended beyond classroom teaching. He was also involved in:
- Coordinating academic programmes
- Supporting student development
- Managing football talent programmes in schools
This dual role allowed him to combine education and sport, helping students achieve both academic and athletic success.
Marten Glotzbach Coaching Philosophy
Player Development Focus
Marten Glotzbach is known for his emphasis on long-term player development. His coaching approach focuses on:
- Technical improvement
- Tactical awareness
- Discipline and teamwork
He prioritises developing well-rounded players who can perform consistently at higher levels.
Integration of Education and Sport
His background as a teacher has shaped his coaching style. He values structured learning, clear communication, and personal growth. This approach makes him particularly effective in youth football environments, where development is key.
Marten Glotzbach and Sarina Wiegman’s Relationship
A Supportive Partnership
Marten Glotzbach is married to Sarina Wiegman, one of the most successful football managers in the world. Their relationship spans more than two decades and is built on a shared passion for football. While Sarina has achieved global recognition, Marten has played a crucial role behind the scenes, providing support and stability.
Their Family Life
The couple has two daughters:
- Lauren Glotzbach – a former professional footballer who has transitioned into a marketing career
- Sacha Glotzbach – a data science professional with a strong academic background
Despite their involvement in football, the family maintains a private and balanced lifestyle.
Marten Glotzbach’s Contribution to Women’s Football
Supporting Women’s Football Growth
Through his role at ADO Den Haag Women’s Team, Marten has contributed to the development of women’s football in the Netherlands. His work has focused on nurturing young talent and preparing players for professional careers.
His coaching has helped players develop key skills such as:
- Tactical understanding
- Confidence and discipline
- Team coordination
Clarification on Collaboration
While both Marten and Sarina share a strong football background, there is no confirmed official role where he worked directly as part of her national team coaching staff. However, their shared knowledge and discussions around football have likely contributed to mutual understanding and growth.
Public Profile and Recognition
Marten Glotzbach maintains a low public profile compared to his wife. He rarely appears in media and focuses on his professional responsibilities. However, he has occasionally been seen at major football events alongside Sarina Wiegman. His recognition comes primarily from his work in coaching and education rather than public exposure.
Strengths and Expertise
Marten Glotzbach’s key strengths include:
- Extensive coaching experience
- Strong academic background
- Expertise in youth development
- Leadership and mentoring skills
These qualities have made him a respected figure within Dutch football circles.
The Legacy of Marten Glotzbach
Marten Glotzbach may not be a global public figure, but his impact on football is significant. His dedication to coaching, education, and player development has influenced many young athletes.
His ability to balance roles as a teacher, coach, and mentor highlights his versatility and commitment to both sport and education.
Conclusion
Marten Glotzbach represents a unique blend of educator and football coach, with decades of experience contributing to Dutch football. While Sarina Wiegman continues to achieve international success, he remains an important figure behind the scenes.
His work in grassroots football, youth development, and education demonstrates that success in sport is not only about visibility but also about consistent contribution and dedication. As he continues his journey, his influence will remain valuable for future generations of players and coaches.
FAQs
Who is Marten Glotzbach?
Marten Glotzbach is a Dutch football coach, mentor, and economics teacher with over two decades of experience in coaching and education. He is also known as the husband of Sarina Wiegman and has contributed significantly to grassroots and women’s football development in the Netherlands.
How old is Marten Glotzbach?
Marten Glotzbach was born on 2 July 1968, which makes him 57 years old as of 2026. His long career reflects extensive experience in both football coaching and teaching.
What is Marten Glotzbach’s nationality?
Marten Glotzbach is Dutch by nationality. He was born in The Hague, Netherlands, and has built his entire professional career within the Dutch football and education systems.
What is Marten Glotzbach’s family background?
Marten Glotzbach is married to Sarina Wiegman, one of the most successful football managers in the world. They have two daughters, Lauren Glotzbach and Sacha Glotzbach, who have pursued careers in marketing and data science respectively.
