Szekszárd has once again secured its place on the Hungarian football map — not only with a renewed team but also with a revitalized approach. Adam Koszo, the club’s new owner, is open about his ambitions: the goal is nothing less than setting an example — to bring faith, momentum, and positive thinking to an environment where women’s football is still often treated as secondary.
Why Szekszárd?
We asked Adam Koszo, who has now officially taken over the management of Szekszárd’s football team.
“Honestly, there wasn’t a specific reason. Talks had been ongoing for a while, then we drifted apart for a time, but our paths crossed again, and we reached an agreement with the previous leadership to take over the club,” Koszó explains.
Although Szekszárd formally competes in the women’s league, Koszó is keen to emphasize equality in perception:
“I believe calling it a ‘women’s team’ is misleading. To me, it’s just a team. In Hungary, when people hear ‘football,’ they automatically think men. After the M4 sports news intro, you can be certain it won’t be about women’s football. Unfortunately, sports media coverage reflects the same bias.”
Media and Mindset — No Room for Disadvantages
Koszo doesn’t hold back his opinion on the media’s treatment of women’s sport:
“It’s surprising that match highlights take days to appear. A second-division men’s game is online within an hour, and the first division is broadcast live on TV. For women’s football, it’s a special occasion just to get a live broadcast at all. Years ago, we offered to buy the broadcast rights for women’s matches. That offer still stands, but no one has come to discuss it with me.”
The Phone Call That Changed Everything — Vágó Fanni on the Line
The selection of the new head coach didn’t follow the usual path. Before deciding, Adam Koszo made a special phone call:
“To be honest, I wasn’t sure who I wanted to appoint. Then I called Fanni Vágó and asked, ‘Hey Fanni, what kind of coach is your dad?’ She said, ‘He’s really good.’ I thought, ‘That’s all I need to know.’” he laughs.
Soon after, the official decision was made: Attila Vágó became Szekszárd’s new coach — a strong professional choice, with a great personal recommendation.
New Players, New Energy
The core of the team remains intact, and the squad has been strengthened with ten new players. Winter signings are also planned, potentially including three foreign players, depending on how the autumn season unfolds.
Csigi Eszter: The Sport Psychologist No One Has Spoken To Yet
“Positive thinking and a ‘never give up’ mentality are very important to me. That’s why we want to involve a sports psychologist — for example, Eszter Csigi.”
But here comes a twist:
“I say ‘for example’ because we haven’t actually contacted her yet. She doesn’t know… but she will. If she’s reading this, here’s a message: call me in winter… or next summer,” Koszo jokes.
He quickly adds:
“We actually already have a sports psychologist. After the coach, she was the second professional we brought in. A young, ambitious expert is already working with the players. But regardless, we also count on Eszter — on the pitch!”
“A Women’s Telki” — Big Dreams in Szekszárd (and Beyond)
Long-term plans include building a dedicated training center exclusively for female footballers — but not just for Szekszárd.
“That’s right, we want to create a ‘new Telki’ for female adult and youth players. Of course, our team will call it home, but this is not just about us. The goal is for this center to be open to every Hungarian female footballer — no matter where she comes from.”
Koszó believes the future requires collective progress:
“We envision a place where any female player’s dream can meet opportunity — alongside professionals who are not only excellent coaches but also have sports psychology expertise. They know how to manage conflicts and, most importantly, foster a positive and supportive environment.”
Respecting the Past — The Contribution of Márk Micskó
Koszo speaks with respect about former head coach Márk Micskó:
“If he hadn’t started this work years ago, I wouldn’t be here today. His contribution to Szekszárd football is undeniable. I just felt it was time for new energy. But our relationship remains; we continue to collaborate in youth development.”
Youth Development as a Foundation
Youth development remains a cornerstone:
“Attila already works closely with the youth setup. The goal is for girls who later join the first team to already be familiar with the playing style and team culture.”
Expectations for the Team
“We’re not concerned about what others think or say about us, or if they laugh behind our backs. As long as every player sets and meets her own expectations, we are on the right path. We’re not motivated by wanting other teams to fail; we want to improve match by match. If a player looks in the mirror after a game and says, ‘Yes, I gave everything, 100%,’ then we are succeeding. Even the best make mistakes; what matters to me is how you respond afterward. Do you give up or keep going? With us, only the latter is acceptable. That’s what we work for.”
“We’re Not Changing the World — Just Setting an Example”
Under Adam Koszo’s leadership, Szekszárd is opening a new chapter — one where gender no longer matters; only attitude, performance, and respect count. The faith he believes in and is now bringing to Szekszárd football.
