People of the Union: Line Roddik Hansen (Denmark)

People of the Union puts the spotlight on individuals across FIFPRO’s member associations who are dedicated to improving the wellbeing of professional footballers.

Former Denmark international Line Roddik Hansen played for the likes of Lyon, Barcelona and Ajax before taking up her current Player Advisor role with Danish player association Spillerforeningen.

FIFPRO: Tell us about yourself: what is your current role and what is your background?

Line Roddik Hansen: I’m currently a Player Advisor at the Danish players’ association Spillerforeningen. Before transitioning into this role, I had a career as a professional footballer, during which I played in five different countries: Denmark, Sweden, France, Spain and the Netherlands. I also earned 132 caps for the Danish national team.

I retired from professional football approximately five years ago and moved directly into my current position at Spillerforeningen. Alongside my playing career, I completed a master’s degree in Sports Science and did a UEFA A-license coaching education. I have consistently combined football with education and professional work, including involvement in research projects, an internship with FIFPRO, and experience as an assistant coach at youth level. Before joining Spillerforeningen as an employee, I served for several years as a board member. I am now based in Copenhagen, where I live with my family and two young children.

What issue affecting player welfare are you most passionate about?

For me, the core issue is respect – respect for players and respect for women’s football. My motivation is strongly influenced by my own experiences during my playing career. I understand that the financial conditions in women’s football are not the same as in men’s football, but I do not accept a lack of respect or unequal treatment. This can relate to many areas: respect for contracts, working conditions, and the overall value of the sport. Respect must come from all stakeholders: club management, football authorities, the media and fans. Without respect, it is impossible to create sustainable and professional environments for players.
 
Can you share one of your proudest moments working as a union representative?

One of the most important achievements has been the introduction of the new standard contract for women players, including agreed minimum standards. While this does not solve all challenges, it represents a significant step forward and provides a clear framework for improving conditions. It laid the foundation for women players to have proper conditions and, importantly, the ability to demand them. On a day-to-day basis, I also find great value in direct dialogue with players. Supporting them in practical and professional matters and seeing that this support makes a difference in their professional and personal lives, is a meaningful part of my work.

Is there anyone in the union world or in sports in general who inspires you?

I am particularly inspired by individuals who are willing to speak up when they believe something is not right, especially when it involves the treatment of others. I have respect for people who work to improve conditions collectively rather than focusing solely on their own position. This is especially meaningful in the world of sport, where self-interest can often take priority over collective responsibility.

What is your favorite football memory to date?

The 2014 UEFA Women’s Champions League final with Tyresö FF against Wolfsburg stands out as a very special memory. It was my first major international final, and despite losing in the final minutes, it remains an important experience. International tournaments, particularly the 2017 European Championship, also stand out. More broadly, having played in several countries and experienced different cultures, nationalities, and football environments is something I value greatly. These experiences continue to stand out even more clearly now, looking back after my playing career.

Who is your favorite footballer and why?

I never had a single football idol. I grew up playing with boys and primarily watching men’s football, without initially seeing a clear pathway for myself as a female professional player. My development was therefore shaped more by opportunity and environment than by following a specific role model.

Is there anything outside of football you are interested in lately?

At the moment, most of my energy and focus is on my family and my two young children (2 and 4 years old). That said, football is still what I enjoy the most, even after my professional career has ended. I continue to play football for fun, and I’m also involved as a coach for my children’s team, which I enjoy.

What does being part of a global union mean to you?

Being part of a global union is important. Standing together with player associations across countries strengthens our collective voice. Many players move between countries, and football is organised internationally. Having a strong global union allows us to work together, share knowledge and experiences, and ensure better protection and conditions for players worldwide. I strongly believe we gain a great deal by learning from one another across associations.

And looking forward, what do you hope to see unions unite more on to shape the future of football for the players?

I hope to see continued unity around core issues such as minimum standards, contractual security, and player welfare. When players’ associations work together across countries, progress becomes more sustainable. A strong and coordinated union movement is key to shaping a future where players’ rights and working conditions are properly safeguarded.