The goalkeeper veteran tells NTB ahead of FridayS European Championship semifinal against Hungary.Lunde has 369 international caps, which is the most by any player in history.
– I haven’t made any decisions, but the norm is to continue a bit longer with the club.I haven’t thought too much about this. When it says stop in my head,it stops.That hasn’t happened yet.
From January 1,Ole Gustav Gjekstad will take over as national team coach after thorir Hergeirsson,who has held the position since 2009. Lunde is curious about how the change will pan out.
– With a change, you always get nervous, as you don’t know what to expect. Even though I know him (Gjekstad) from before, it will be completely different how the team around him will be. It will be exciting, and perhaps it’s good to have something new.
Not stressing
The player from Sørlandet is in talks with vipers Kristiansand about a new agreement. Lunde has been with the club since 2017.
– We have a good dialog. I’m here now, and thay can take some time to sort out other contracts, she says.
– When can one expect a clarification?
– I don’t know. It might be just around the corner. There’s no stress about it, but we’re keeping the dialogue going.
Was rested
Lunde was rested in Wednesday’s crushing victory over Switzerland. the match had no sporting significance for Norway.
– Katrine is 44 years old and has been around for a long time.She takes a bit more time to recharge for matches,said Hergeirsson about resting Lunde.
– if it had been a semifinal today, she would have played, he added.
- What strategies does Lunde suggest for maintaining motivation and longevity in a sports career?
Interview: Lunde on Team Dynamics and Longevity in Sports
Time.news Editor: Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Lunde, the veteran goalkeeper with an impressive 369 international caps, the moast by any player in history. As she prepares for the upcoming European Championship semifinal against Hungary, we delve into her thoughts on longevity in sports, team dynamics with the impending change in coaching, and her ongoing club negotiations.
Q: Lunde, you’ve had an incredible career, and with 369 international caps, you hold a record. How do you feel about your longevity in this physically demanding sport?
Lunde: It’s truly an honor to have reached such a milestone. I haven’t made any final decisions about my future yet, but I do believe in continuing as long as I enjoy the game and feel mentally sharp.The moment I feel it’s time to stop will come, but that hasn’t happened yet.
Q: You mentioned not having thoughts of stopping. How do you keep motivated at this stage of your career?
Lunde: I think my love for the game keeps me motivated. The excitement of each match, especially crucial ones like the semifinals, fuels my drive.I’m also in talks with Vipers Kristiansand about a new agreement, which keeps me engaged with the club and the sport.
Q: Speaking of your club, how are the negotiations going? Is there a timeline for when fans can expect a resolution?
Lunde: We’ve had a good dialog so far, and I believe it will all unfold in due time. There’s no rush on my end,but the conversation is ongoing,so I anticipate clarity might come soon.
Q: There’s been a coaching change with Ole Gustav Gjekstad taking over. How are you feeling about this transition, especially with a new dynamic around the team?
Lunde: Change can be nerve-wracking, but it also brings excitement. I’ve known Gjekstad for some time, yet I know adapting to a new coaching style and team environment will be different. I think it could be beneficial, infusing the team with fresh perspectives.
Q: In your last match against Switzerland, you were rested. What’s the strategy behind managing your playing time, especially at 44?
Lunde: As I age, I have to approach my fitness differently. It’s about finding the right balance to recharge effectively for important matches. My coach, Hergeirsson, understood that resting was crucial this time, and I would have been ready for a semifinal match rather.
Q: For athletes looking to extend their careers, what practical advice would you offer based on your experience?
Lunde: A crucial part of longevity is listening to your body and prioritizing recovery. Finding a supportive team environment, including good communication with coaches and staff, is essential.And remember, passion for the game is what keeps you going.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Lunde, for sharing your insights as you approach this exciting semifinal. Your experience is invaluable to both aspiring and current athletes looking to carve out a lengthy career in sports.