SG Flensburg-Handewitt has secured the services of another promising young talent: Goalie Catalin Haidu has signed his first professional contract, taking the next important step in his still-young career. Haidu has committed to the SG’s professional team for at least two years.
The 18-year-old moved from Romania to Flensburg in 2023 and has been part of the SG Flensburg Academy ever since. There, he received targeted training for a professional career as part of a full scholarship. Most recently, Haidu stood between the posts for the SG’s U19 team in the A-Jugend-Bundesliga. The 1.97m-tall young goalkeeper has also seen playing time with the SG’s professional team in the Bundesliga and the European League.
It’s no coincidence that his journey has now led to a professional contract: the talented goalkeeper has recently been called up to the national team of his home country, Romania.
For Catalin Haidu, signing the contract is a very special moment: “Signing my first professional contract means an incredible amount to me. When I came to Flensburg from Romania, it was a big step for me: a new country, a new language, and a completely different environment. That makes me all the more proud now to see that the hard work has paid off. At the same time, this is just the beginning for me. I want to keep learning every day, support the team as best I can, and take the next step in my development. My main goal is to establish myself as a professional and eventually play at the highest level.”
Holger Glandorf, managing director of SG Flensburg-Handewitt, says:
“Catalin has already gained some initial experience in the professional arena and has shown the potential he possesses. We’re all the more pleased that he’s continuing his journey with SG and remains part of our roster. We’re confident that he’ll continue to develop step by step with us.”
In the coming season, Haidu will be part of the SG’s professional team and, at the same time, gain valuable playing experience with our partner club, DHK Flensborg, in the 3rd League.
“Catalin is an exceptional talent, not only because of his skills in goal, but above all because of his professional attitude, his discipline, and his willingness to perform. After nearly two years of training with the DHK and several appearances in matches there, he can now grow into men’s handball with us in the 3rd League, and we’re confident he’ll help us from the very first minute. He knows the team and the environment and will therefore establish himself quickly. Training and potential playing time with the pros and on his national team will help him grow tremendously; his development is far from over. We’re very excited to have Cata on the team and are also proud of how well the talent development program is working within this partnership,” says Tobias Dahm, managing director of DHK Flensborg.
Johann Volquardsen, Managing Director of the SG Academy: “Catalin’s development shows what’s possible when talent meets the right attitude and a suitable development environment. Over the past three years, he has developed exceptionally well—athletically, personally, and as a person. The fact that he is now signing his first professional contract is a well-deserved reward for his dedication and, at the same time, a testament to the joint efforts of the Flensburg Academy, DHK Flensborg, and SG Flensburg-Handewitt. His journey demonstrates just how valuable close collaboration can be across all stages of development.”