Republic of Ireland defender Diane Caldwell named captain of Bundesliga side SC Sand
Diane Caldwell in action for the Republic of Ireland against Greece in 2020. Credit: Peter Fitzpatrick (ETPhotos)
Republic of Ireland international Diane Caldwell has been named captain of Bundesliga side SC Sand for the forthcoming season.
The Balbriggan native takes over the armband from long-time captain Anne Van Bonn, who left the Willstatt club in the summer after seven seasons in blue.
Defender Caldwell was the first choice of new coach Nora Hauptl, and the 31-year-old will be backed up by the comparatively inexperienced vice captain Michaela Brandenburg.
The 31-year-old is one of the longest-serving players remaining at the Baden-Wurttemberg club, having signed from Koln ahead of the 2016/17 season.
Proud to lead this team forward.
— Diane Caldwell (@DianeCaldwell7) August 31, 2020
pic.twitter.com/xRiCOjlLud
Caldwell earned her 75th international cap in March's Euro 2021 qualifying win over Greece, scoring the winning goal on the stroke of half time.
“Diane is the senior player in the squad and her behaviour is highly professional,” said SC Sand general manager Gerald Jungmann.
“The same goes for Michi Brandenburg, always loyal. It was obvious that the two would be given this responsibility next season."
Caldwell added: “I am very pleased that those responsible have given me this task.
“I hope to lead the team to new heights, motivate and advance the team every day, and use my experience to develop and guide the young players around me.”
