FK Austria Wien have announced that captain Verena Volkmer will end her career in the summer after three years with the Violets.

FK Austria Wien Captain Verena Volkmer to Retire in the Summer

Vienna, Austria – In a heartfelt announcement that has sent waves of emotion through the football world, Verena Volkmer, the captain of FK Austria Wien, confirmed today that she will retire from professional football at the end of the current season. Volkmer, a stalwart of the club and one of the most respected figures in Austrian women’s football, has decided to call time on her illustrious career, which has spanned over a decade at the top of the game.

A Career Defined by Leadership and Excellence

Verena Volkmer, 34, has been the embodiment of FK Austria Wien’s values—commitment, hard work, and sportsmanship. Known for her unwavering leadership, Volkmer has captained the team for several years, guiding them through both triumphs and setbacks with a professionalism and passion that has made her an irreplaceable figure in the club’s history. Her decision to retire marks the end of an era not only for FK Austria Wien but also for Austrian women’s football as a whole.

A product of Austria’s youth football system, Volkmer’s rise to prominence was both swift and deserved. Starting her career at the young age of 16, she quickly became known for her versatility, discipline, and leadership qualities. Over the years, Volkmer established herself as one of the top defenders in the Austrian women’s league, but it was her influence as a captain that truly set her apart. Her ability to organize the team, communicate effectively with her teammates, and lead by example both on and off the pitch was second to none.

Volkmer’s contributions to the club have been immense. During her tenure with FK Austria Wien, she helped the team secure multiple league titles, Austrian Cups, and a number of prestigious European fixtures. She was integral in the club’s historic run in European competitions, where her composure and tactical awareness were often the deciding factors in crucial matches.

A Career Rich in Achievements

Over the course of her career, Volkmer has accumulated numerous individual accolades. As one of Austria’s top defenders, she has been a consistent fixture in the national team as well, earning a significant number of caps and representing her country in major international tournaments. Her performances on the international stage have solidified her place as one of the key figures in Austrian women’s football.

Her list of achievements with FK Austria Wien includes:

• Multiple ÖFB-Frauenliga (Austrian Women’s Bundesliga) titles.
• Austrian Women’s Cup victories.
• Regular appearances in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
• Several personal accolades, including being named to the Austrian Women’s Footballer of the Year shortlist.

Volkmer’s style of play, marked by calm and composed defending, coupled with her ability to read the game, made her an essential pillar of the club’s defense for over a decade. Her leadership extended beyond the pitch, inspiring younger players, mentoring them, and helping to elevate the overall level of play within the team.

A Fond Farewell

Volkmer’s decision to retire was a deeply personal one, driven by both physical challenges and the desire to step away from the game while still at the peak of her powers. In a statement released to the press, Volkmer shared her emotions about leaving the game that has been her life for so many years.

“It’s been an incredible journey, and it’s with a heavy heart that I announce my retirement. Football has given me everything I could have asked for – wonderful memories, great friendships, and the opportunity to wear the captain’s armband for such a prestigious club. I feel incredibly fortunate to have had the chance to represent FK Austria Wien and the national team,” Volkmer said.

She continued, “While I will miss the game, I am excited about the next chapter in my life. My focus will now turn to supporting the next generation of players, and I hope to continue contributing to the game in a new way. I want to thank my teammates, the coaching staff, the fans, and my family for their constant support. I could not have achieved any of this without them.”

Tributes Pour In

The announcement of Volkmer’s retirement has sparked an outpouring of tributes from across the footballing world. Her FK Austria Wien teammates, past and present, have praised her leadership and impact on the team. Many described her as the ultimate professional, someone who always gave 100% on the field and was equally committed to helping her teammates grow.

“We’ve been lucky to have someone like Verena as our captain,” said Anne-Kathrin Reichelt, one of FK Austria Wien’s current players. “She has been the backbone of this team, and it’s impossible to imagine what this club would have been without her. She has set the standard for all of us, and we will carry her legacy forward.”

The club’s management also paid tribute to their captain, calling her one of the greatest players in the club’s history. “Verena Volkmer has not only been an exceptional player but a true leader,” said the club’s sporting director, Markus Kraus. “Her commitment and passion for the game are unparalleled. She has inspired an entire generation of players and has been a crucial part of FK Austria Wien’s success over the years. We will forever be grateful for everything she has done for the club.”

The Austrian Football Association also expressed its gratitude for Volkmer’s contributions to the national team. “Verena has been an outstanding ambassador for Austrian football, both on the domestic and international stage. Her leadership and performances have left a lasting legacy that will be remembered for many years,” the AFA said in a statement.

What’s Next for Volkmer?

While her playing days are coming to a close, Verena Volkmer’s impact on the sport is far from over. Many expect her to continue her involvement in football, possibly in a coaching or mentoring role, where she can impart her vast knowledge and experience to the next generation of players.

“I want to stay connected to the game, and I hope to be able to give back in some way. Whether that’s through coaching, working with young players, or contributing to the development of women’s football, I’m excited for what comes next,” Volkmer said.

As FK Austria Wien prepares for the remainder of the season, fans will surely flock to the stadium to celebrate the career of one of their most beloved players. Volkmer’s final matches will undoubtedly be an emotional farewell, with supporters honoring her legacy in what promises to be an unforgettable end to an incredible career.

Verena Volkmer’s retirement marks the closing of a significant chapter in Austrian women’s football, but her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of players. For FK Austria Wien and the footballing world, it is the end of an era, but it’s also the beginning of a new one, where the lessons learned from Volkmer’s leadership will continue to guide the sport forward.