Champion with Winti Panthers, Swiss international and versatile in both attack and defence. Helen Nauer joins Union Vrede with a clear mindset: contributing wherever the team needs her.

She thought her days with a ball at her feet were over. Until a former teammate convinced her to give beach soccer a try — a sport she didn't even know existed at the time. The dynamic pace and technical challenge reignited her passion.

Today, 34-year-old Helen Nauer combines her job as a physiotherapist with club beach soccer and the Swiss national team. Along the way, she learned that international matches demand more than just physical readiness: you also have to be mentally prepared.

Through Andrea Morger, she joins Union Vrede for the World Winners Cup. To Alanya she brings her versatility, enthusiasm and the conviction that a team grows stronger through good communication and mutual support.

1. Could you briefly introduce yourself and tell us a bit about Helen outside of football?

I'm Helen Nauer, 34 years old, and I work as a physiotherapist. I've always been passionate about sports and an active lifestyle.

2. How did you discover beach soccer and what made you fall in love with the sport?

After several years of football, I actually thought I was done chasing after a ball. But a former teammate and close friend convinced me to give beach soccer a try. Until then, I didn't even know the sport existed! What I love most about it is how dynamic and technically challenging it is.

3. Which teams have you played for, and who has had the greatest influence on your development as a player?

In Switzerland, I play for Winti Panthers. This year I also had the opportunity to take part in the Euro Winners Cup with Havana Shots. I think every coach I've worked with has taught me something valuable and helped me grow as a player.

4. How would you describe your playing style? What is your preferred position and what qualities do you bring to the team?

Depending on the team, I play in an attacking or defensive role. I don't have one favourite position. For me, what matters most is helping the team wherever I'm needed and can contribute the most.

5. What does it mean to you to wear the Swiss national team jersey? How do you remember your first match for Switzerland?

Representing Switzerland is a huge honour, and I truly cherish every opportunity to play for my country. I remember feeling nervous before my first match, but I was even more excited to experience something completely new.

6. What is your most unforgettable beach soccer memory so far? What makes that moment so special?

One of my most unforgettable moments was winning the championship with my team, Winti Panthers. Honestly, I hadn't expected it, which made it all the more special to me.

7. What has playing at an international level taught you, both as a player and as a person?

Playing at an international level has shown me how intense matches can be and how important good physical conditioning is. But it has also made me realise that mental preparation is just as important. Learning to deal with the mental side of the game has also helped me handle stressful situations in daily life.

8. How did you come into contact with Union Vrede and why did you want to take part in the World Winners Cup with our women's team?

I got in touch with Union Vrede through my teammate Andrea Morger, and I'm really looking forward to playing with the team at the World Winners Cup.

9. Our women's team is at the beginning of its journey. What do you want to bring to the group, on and off the pitch?

I want to bring my positive mindset and enthusiasm to the team, both on and off the pitch.

10. We have little preparation time together. In your view, what will help us form a close-knit and competitive team in Alanya?

I think good communication, a positive mindset and supporting each other will be very important.

11. What are your personal goals and your ambitions for the team at the World Winners Cup? Is there a particular opponent or challenge you would love to take on?

My goal is to gain new experiences with new people, play at my best level, support the team and hopefully make it an unforgettable tournament for all of us.

12. What message would you like to share with your new teammates and the supporters of Union Vrede before this adventure gets underway?

I am very excited and grateful to be part of this team. I look forward to this experience and will give my absolute best on the pitch.

Attacking or defending: for Helen, her role starts with what the team needs. With that mindset, she heads to Alanya, ready to support new teammates and take on the international challenge together.