When you think of young football stars, Erling Haaland probably pops up in your mind. Even though he’s so young, he’s known for scoring goals left and right. A big reason behind his achievement is his mother, Gry Marita Braut. She starred in the heptathlon long before her son became a football sensation.
Her Journey
Born in Bryne, Norway, in 1972, Gry Marita Braut loved sports from when she was little. She became a heptathlon champ in Norway in 1994 and 1995. Not just that, she showcased her talent in the 1993 World Championships and the 1995 European Championships.
Finding Love with Alfie Haaland
In the 1990s, she met Alfie Haaland. He was a top football player for clubs like Bryne, Leeds United, Manchester City, and Nottingham Forest. They tied the knot in 1997 and became parents to Astor, Gabrielle, and Erling.
New Adventures in England
A year before their wedding in 1994, Alfie started playing for Leeds United. This meant the family set off for England. This is where Erling and Gabrielle were born.
Coming Back Home
Fast forward to 2001, Alfie decided to hang up his football boots. The family made their way back to Norway. Gry Marita focused on taking care of her kids.
Gry Marita’s Magic Touch on Erling
Erling didn’t just wake up one day as a football genius. His mom, Gry Marita, shared her sports wisdom and spirit with him. She cheered for him, helped him work hard, and believed in his dreams of being a football champ. She was also there when Erling chose to play for Norway, even though he could have picked England.
How Gry Marita Helped Erling Grow
Using her sports know-how, Gry Marita guided Erling to be a better athlete. She made unique training plans and taught him what foods to eat. She also told him that resting and sleeping well are super important.
Gry Marita’s Life Lessons
She didn’t just help with Erling’s sports side. Gry Marita taught him how to stay strong when things get tough. She also said life is more than just football.
Being Part of the Football Family
You can often see Gry Marita cheering for Erling during games. She’s friendly with his teammates and their coaches. They all like having her around.
ALSO READ: Wayne Liang Entrepreneur: A Green Entrepreneurial Genius
A Different Hat: Physical Therapist
When she’s not being a super mom, Gry Marita works as a physical therapist. She knows much about sports injuries and helps many athletes, including Erling.
Cheering for Sporty Girls
Gry Marita wants all girls and women to love sports. She talks about how sports should treat everyone the same, whether they’re boys or girls. She encourages girls to play and have fun.
Good Moment for Gry Marita Braut!
People have noticed Gry Marita’s hard work. In 2020, she got a special award from the Norwegian Sports Confederation. They called her the “Mother of the Year” because she helped Erling in his football journey.
Leaving a Mark
Kids, moms, and athletes look up to Gry Marita. She shows you can be great at your work and still have a happy family. Erling Haaland is proud of his mom, and so are many others around the globe.
To Wrap Up
Erling Haaland shines bright in football, and behind him is the incredible Gry Marita Braut. She’s an athlete, a caring mom, and stands up for women in sports. People everywhere admire her.
