Reinforced title holders ready for action

Győri Audi ETO KC have had a troublesome year as the reigning Women’s EHF Champions League winners have an entire line up of world class players sidelined.

With Anita Görbicz and Katrine Lunde pregnant as well as Eduarda Amorim and Adrienn Orbán recovering from serious injuries, the Hungarian outfit needed to gather resources to look for reinforcements during the winter break.

First things first

The team’s management considered sealing Ambros Martin’s position a priority and quickly extended the contract of the Spanish coach by three years.

“One can’t hope for a better trainer than Ambros, it was never a question that his contract will be extended in Györ,” claimed Chairman Ernö Kelecsenyi.

“When we started talking about my contract renewal all I cared about was how high my players’ motivation was. I wanted to work with a team still eager to win regardless of how many titles we have won so far. Luckily, I see the team is still hungry for more,” said Martin.

“I want to keep the spirits high and if we manage to maintain this attitude I know we can overcome any difficulties. I am definitely happy to have the opportunity to work in Györ for three more years,” added the Spaniard.

Newcomers feel honoured

Czech right wing Jana Knedlikova moved to Györ from neighbouring club Mosonmagyaróvár, the home town of Győr’s reserve team, and feels honoured to play for the defending champions.

“I loved playing for Mosonmagyaróvár, where we had a young team but in Györ I bump into world class players day after day. I was given a warm welcome by the team and I already feel at home in Győr,” said the 25-year-old.

Knedlikova will have to fill in for Orbán at the right wing position, while the other newcomer will have a much more difficult task at hand. Tamires Morena was signed to deputise Eduarda Amorim in defence, who has been a key player for Györ both in attack and defence.

“I couldn’t believe my ears when a call came from Györ. I immediately jumped into a plane and flew to Hungary and although I am living a dream I am also a little self-conscious. I know I have to work hard to be a useful part of this great team and I am ready to do so,” said the 20-year-old line player.

Tamires was spotted in the same tournament where Amorim suffered a knee injury and put up a great defensive performance in the place of the world champion superstar. 

Györi Audi ETO will start the Women’s EHF Champions League Main Round against fellow FINAL4 contenders Larvik at home on 1 February.