Today, Thursday, Union’s women’s team were able to enjoy a well-deserved day off after six days and numerous training sessions. While some used the spa area of the hotel to relax, others got on their bikes and explored the surrounding area.

Active on two wheels

Defender Charleen Niesler, for example, went on a two-hour bike ride into the mountains with some of her teammates to discover an idyllic little village. Athletic trainer Marcus Liebig and head coach Ailien Poese also took advantage of the sunshine hours for a tour of the picturesque region of the ‘Costa del Azahar’.

‘It's supposed to rain in the afternoon, so we wanted to make the most of the time,’ said Liebig.

Wellness and pleasure

Meanwhile, captain Lisa Heiseler and Anouk Blaschka were enjoying the tranquil spa area. With a deck of cards in tow, they spent a few relaxing hours in the sauna and by the pool. Newcomers Leonie Köster and Nele Bauereisen, on the other hand, used the day off to enjoy the local cuisine. ‘We really wanted to try a classic paella and found a good restaurant nearby,’ reported Köster.

Padel tennis instead of football

Some of the staff members also enjoyed some competition on the padel tennis court, the dynamic mix of tennis and squash provided plenty of exercise and good humour.

‘A day like this is incredibly good for recharging your batteries,’ the team agreed. They needed the rest, because they'll be back on the training pitch as early as Friday morning. There, they will make final preparations for the friendly against Bundesliga side Bayer 04 Leverkusen on Saturday.

Quote of the day: ‘Altglienicke’s great, there are only grannies and grandpas, I feel comfortable there’ – Antonia Halverkamps on her living situation in Berlin.

The diary entries at a glance:

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5