Gintra, Lithuanian champions for the past two decades, introduce their new head coach: England's Steve Beeks.
The 53-year-old UEFA Pro Licence holder most recently worked at Åland United, based in Finland's Åland Islands.
During 2020–2023, Beeks led the team to league medals in three consecutive seasons, won two Finnish Cups and competed successfully in the Champions League. In 2021–2022, Åland United beat the Romanian champions 4–0 in the first qualifying round before losing 0–1 to Geneva's Servette, the club currently represented by Rimantė Jonušaitė.
He previously headed IFK Mariehamn's academy in Finland, developing young talents who continued into national teams and professional leagues.
Finland international and former Chelsea and Montpellier midfielder Adelina Engman, whom Beeks coached early in her career at Åland United, called him the best coach of her career. She described him as someone who inspires players, strategically uses their strengths and gives them self-belief.
Despite his experience, Beeks described joining the Lithuanian champions as a new challenge: taking charge of a team that has held its title for two decades carries major responsibility.
"Joining a club as successful as Gintra is always a challenge. I'm highly motivated and eager to contribute to new achievements. I'm pleased my experience, knowledge and skills convinced the management I was right for the role. I can't wait to start and pursue success domestically, in the Baltic League and in the Champions League," he said.
Beeks identified building team spirit and motivation in daily work as central to his vision. He believes this enables individuals to achieve collective success throughout a season. Only after establishing that priority can tactical and individual skills be developed to deliver individual victories.
"I believe the strongest motivation comes from players themselves when they feel trusted. Everyone must understand their role and responsibility so we can achieve shared goals. I aim to give clear tasks and build a team where every player feels her contribution matters."
Looking forward to his next chapter, Beeks added: "We will aim to play effective, inspiring football that meets expectations and encourages people to support the players at the stadium. Women's football is gaining momentum across Europe, and I hope interest will also grow in Lithuania."
Introducing the coach, director Mantas Radavičius highlighted his experience and philosophy, which fit the club's strategy and vision.
"Steve is an experienced specialist with a high-quality football philosophy. We received many positive recommendations from trusted sources and believe he will help us win and continue Gintra's successful story in line with our strategy. We wish him every success on this new journey."
