Helle Thomsen, the new national coach, has selected 31 players for the women’s national handball team gathering in mid-September, including a match squad for a test match against Iceland and a “bubble squad.” This approach aims to evaluate a wide range of talent and integrate players into the national team system.

The coaching staff wants to assess many players, giving opportunities to those from the Danish league during the initial days of the gathering. According to Helle Thomsen, this strategy facilitates a closer connection to the team and eases the transition from the “bubble squad” to the national team when needed.

Eighteen players are expected to arrive in Frederikshavn on Monday, September 15, while the remaining thirteen will join on Tuesday.

The squad largely consists of experienced national team members who were regulars under Thomsen’s predecessor, Jesper Jensen. Alongside them, a number of new players will get a chance to prove themselves.

The coaching staff is focusing on the line position, with Rikke Iversen, Sarah Iversen, and Kathrine Heindahl unavailable due to pregnancy and maternity leave. This situation provides opportunities for Nanna Hinnerfeldt and Ida-Marie Dahl to showcase their abilities on the national team.

Thomsen explained that Nanna Hinnerfeldt has previous experience and is strong in central defense. Ida-Marie Dahl, a newer addition, has impressed with her performances in Romania and Sønderjyske, displaying an offensive style and versatility in defense.

The gathering will conclude with a test match against Iceland on September 20 at Arena Nord in Frederikshavn.