A renowned Norwegian handball player and coach, known for leading the national team to multiple international titles and Olympic medals. She's a highly respected figure in the handball world.
Marit Breivik is a name synonymous with victory in the world of handball. As the former head coach of the Norway women's national handball team, she has led her team to a plethora of championship titles, including the 2008 Olympic tournament, the World Women's Handball Championship in 1999, and four European Women's Handball Championships.
Breivik's coaching style is characterized by its calm and controlled demeanor. Her extensive knowledge of the sport, coupled with her constant pursuit of innovation, has made her a force to be reckoned with in the handball world. One of her most renowned tactics is the "five-to-six" penalty play, where she substitutes the goalkeeper for an extra player, allowing her team to maintain a strong attack while sacrificing some defensive vulnerability.
Breivik's journey in handball began as a player, with 140 games under her belt for the Norwegian national team between 1975 and 1983. During this period, she won three Norwegian national championships with her club, Skogn IL. Her education from the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences laid the foundation for her future coaching success.
Breivik's coaching career spans over two decades, with stints as coach for clubs like Bysen IL and Larvik HK. In 1994, she took the reins as head coach for the Norwegian national female team, a position she held for 15 years. During her tenure, she led the team to numerous championship titles, including:
Breivik's contributions to Norwegian handball have been recognized at the highest level. On 16 March 2009, King Harald V of Norway appointed her Knight, First Class of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit.
Although Breivik stepped down as national coach in 2009, her impact on the sport remains unparalleled. Her pioneering spirit and innovative coaching style continue to inspire future generations of handball players and coaches alike.
Breivik was born on 10 April 1955 in Levanger, Norway. Her passion for handball was ignited from a young age, and she has since dedicated her life to the sport.
Breivik's achievements have not only elevated the status of Norwegian handball but have also contributed to the growth of the sport globally. Her success has paved the way for future generations of female handball players, inspiring them to pursue their dreams in the sport.
Breivik's coaching philosophy is centered around the importance of teamwork, discipline, and continuous innovation. Her commitment to these principles has yielded unparalleled success and has made her one of the most respected coaches in the sport.
46 Years Old
Norwegian handball goalkeeper renowned for her exceptional reflexes and shot-stopping abilities, leading her team to numerous international titles and earning individual accolades.