Stuniverse Posted December 21, 2023 Author Share Posted December 21, 2023 Saturday 28th June 2025 Loddefjord (14th) v Stjørdals-Blink (8th) PostNord-ligaen Avdeling 2 -- -- -- -- Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 21, 2023 Author Share Posted December 21, 2023 Episode 33 - 1st July 2025 | "Problems with Players" -- Arfan Habibi Spoiler -- Porir Rafn Porisson Spoiler -- Filip Larsen Spoiler 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 21, 2023 Author Share Posted December 21, 2023 Episode 33 - 1st July 2025 | "Monthly Review" -- Results -- Board Confidence -- Supporter Confidence -- Finances -- Dynamics Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 21, 2023 Author Share Posted December 21, 2023 (edited) Episode 33 - 1st July 2025 | "Can we have a word?" "We want you to drop Byrkjeland!" -- -- Spoiler -- -- -- -- -- Edited December 21, 2023 by Stuniverse Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 21, 2023 Author Share Posted December 21, 2023 (edited) Episode 33 - 1st July 2025 | *** BREAKING NEWS *** -- -- Personal Message -- Fans Reaction -- Loddefjord - Job Advert Edited December 21, 2023 by Stuniverse 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 21, 2023 Author Share Posted December 21, 2023 (edited) Until Next Time -- Well, I guess I'll be contacting football agent Hedda Berg and going job hunting then. -- Any questions... Thoughts, comments, general feedback appreciated. Any questions, just ask and I'll answer them if I can. Thank you for reading and following. Until next time... Stuni Stuniverse Edited December 21, 2023 by Stuniverse Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
warlock Posted December 21, 2023 Share Posted December 21, 2023 In your shoes I'd be relieved - decision made for you. Hopefully, something better will turn up soon. Fingers crossed 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
phnompenhandy Posted December 21, 2023 Share Posted December 21, 2023 59 minutes ago, warlock said: In your shoes I'd be relieved - decision made for you. Hopefully, something better will turn up soon. Fingers crossed Agree. It's unpleasant getting fired, but it's probably a blessing in disguise. Let's see what comes up! 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 21, 2023 Author Share Posted December 21, 2023 Thanks @warlock and @phnompenhandy. 5 hours ago, warlock said: In your shoes I'd be relieved Indeed. It was a relief. 5 hours ago, warlock said: decision made for you. Yes. I guess if I'd backed down, given in, and agreed to drop the player the Board wanted me to drop, I'd still be Loddefjord manager, at least for a little while, but... ... the player they wanted me to drop, Viljar Byrkeland, hadn't even started the last few games. I was planning on dropping Eiður Baldvin Baldvinsson, and giving the striker's shirt to Byrkeland, so I wasn't willing to let the Board start interfering in my team selections. It cost me my job but, to be fair, I needed to get away from Loddefjord. 5 hours ago, warlock said: Hopefully, something better will turn up soon. Fingers crossed 4 hours ago, phnompenhandy said: Agree. It's unpleasant getting fired, but it's probably a blessing in disguise. Let's see what comes up! Thanks, let's hope I land on my feet... It'll be a short save if I don't get offered another job. 3 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 21, 2023 Author Share Posted December 21, 2023 (edited) Episode 34 - July 2025 | Job Hunting "Who gave the journalists my number?" -- TVNORGE -- BERGENS TIDENDE Edited December 22, 2023 by Stuniverse Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 22, 2023 Author Share Posted December 22, 2023 (edited) Episode 34 - August 2025 | Job Hunting "Hedda's on the case" -- My phone rang and it was football agent Hedda Berg. Stuniverse: Hi Hedda. Hedda Berg: Hi Stuni. I was sorry to hear about... Stuniverse: Thanks. I think we both knew it wasn't going to end well with Petter Bjerke and it didn't. Hedda Berg: I heard he was telling you which players to pick. Stuniverse: More like which players not to pick... but yes, he was. Hedda Berg: That's not his remit. Stuniverse: I told him that, but he said he financed the club and that gave him the right. Hedda Berg: I'm sorry. Stuniverse: No need to be. Hedda Berg: Anyway, I've been asking around on your behalf. I know I'm not your agent but... well... I thought I'd see if I could help you. Stuniverse: Thank you. And? Hedda Berg: First of all I asked around Eliteserien [Tier 1]. I wasn't expecting anything, but I thought I'd test the water on your behalf. Both Rosenborg and Asane said you wouldn't make the shortlist due to the sheer volume of applicants but they didn't completely rule you out. -- I also asked around OBOS-ligaen [Tier 2]. Again I thought it might be a long-shot but thought it was worth making enquiries on your behalf. I'm afraid neither Bryne, Kristiansund nor Start were willing to shortlist you. But Bryne and Kristiansund didn't completely dismiss your application. -- There were some vacancies in PostNord-ligaen Avdeling 1 [Tier 3] and I thought these might be more realistic. I'm afraid Fløy (Flekkerøy IL Fotball) weren't prepared to shortlist you. And I'm waiting to hear back from Lyn 1896 and Strommen. I've also reached out to Tromsø and Moss, although I'll be honest with you, I'm not expecting a favourable response but... if you don't ask, you don't get. -- Stuniverse: Wow! That's a lot of work for saying you don't represent me. Hedda Berg: Like I said, I wanted to help. I like you, I think you've got something, a talent... but, yes, I would like to represent you. Stuniverse: Thanks. Tell you what, Hedda, if you get me a job, a paying job, I'll sign up with you. Hedda Berg: Deal. How would you feel about dropping down into Tier 4 again? Stuniverse: That would be a backward step though, wouldn't it? Like sliding down a snake rather than climbing up a ladder. Hedda Berg: Maybe, maybe not. Depends on the football club. There's three Tier 4 football clubs looking for managers - Stord, Sprint-Jeløy and Træff. Stuniverse: They're all embroiled in relegation battles, aren't they? Hedda Berg: They are. Sometimes you have to take one step backward to take two steps forward. Stuniverse: Yeah, sometimes. But not yet. I won't rule out a top-half Tier 4 club but I'm not ready to swap a Tier 3 relegation battle for a Tier 4 relegation battle. Hedda Berg: I hear you, and let's see what happens, but you may have to be pragmatic. The best time for you to move was in the off-season, you're stock was high after your Title Winning Promotion but now, after half a season in and around the relegation zone, you're stock isn't as high. You understand what I'm saying. Stuniverse: Sure, but let's give it time. Let's see what, if anything happens this season and, if I'm still out of a job at the end of the season, then I'll lower my ambitions. OK? Hedda Berg: OK with me. Does that mean you want me to represent you? Stuniverse: Sure. Why not? Hedda Berg: Excellent. Thank you, Stuni. You won't regret it. Stuniverse: I'm regretting it already. Hedda Berg: Remember, I'm doing all the leg-work at the moment, on your behalf, and I don't get paid unless you get paid. Stuniverse: I was only pulling your leg. Hedda Berg: I know. There's about half a dozen football clubs who are seriously considering parting ways with their managers as well. Stuniverse: There always is. It comes with the territory. Hedda Berg: It does. Look after yourself, Stuni, and I'll be in touch as soon as I have anything for you, Edited December 22, 2023 by Stuniverse 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
warlock Posted December 22, 2023 Share Posted December 22, 2023 1 hour ago, Stuniverse said: I would like to represent you She's a flirtatious minx, isn't she? But I think you're right - swapping a Tier 3 nailed-on relegation for a Tier 4 battle doesn't seem like a great move. I'm sure something will come up. 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
phnompenhandy Posted December 22, 2023 Share Posted December 22, 2023 15 minutes ago, warlock said: She's a flirtatious minx, isn't she? But I think you're right - swapping a Tier 3 nailed-on relegation for a Tier 4 battle doesn't seem like a great move. I'm sure something will come up. I've found in my current save that so much depends on the qualities and attitude of the chairman. Stuni's learned that you don't want one with high 'interference'! Being at a struggling club with a good, supportive chairman can work out very well in the longer term; the problem is, how can you know your chairman is a good egg or evil git until you take the job?! 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 22, 2023 Author Share Posted December 22, 2023 6 hours ago, warlock said: She's a flirtatious minx, isn't she? I quite like her so her flirtatious ways are working 6 hours ago, warlock said: But I think you're right - swapping a Tier 3 nailed-on relegation for a Tier 4 battle doesn't seem like a great move. I'm sure something will come up. Yes, that's my thinking as well, @warlock as it feels like I'd be right back where I started. Plus if I fail to keep a Tier 4 side up, it's an automatic sacking whereas with a Tier 3 club, taking over in the second-half of the season, there's always the chance they might keep me around to start the 2026 season if we do get relegated. It's looking like Tier 3 or Tier 4 as initial responses suggest anything higher is out-of-my-league for now. Hopefully Hedda will have some good news for me soon. 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 22, 2023 Author Share Posted December 22, 2023 5 hours ago, phnompenhandy said: I've found in my current save that so much depends on the qualities and attitude of the chairman. Stuni's learned that you don't want one with high 'interference'! 5 hours ago, phnompenhandy said: Being at a struggling club with a good, supportive chairman can work out very well in the longer term; the problem is, how can you know your chairman is a good egg or evil git until you take the job?! You know right at the end of the interview sequence, @phnompenhandy, where it asks you if there's anything you would like to ask the Chairperson, we need an option for "Are you a good egg or an evil git?" Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 22, 2023 Author Share Posted December 22, 2023 (edited) Episode 34 - August 2025 | Job Hunting "They've gone and given it to my Assistant" -- Loddefjord have appointed Tor Martin Hegrenes, my Assistant Manager while I was at the Alvoen Stadion, as my successor as manager. He was appointed caretaker following my sacking and now Tor Martin has the job permanently. Tor Martin is on a N/A £0.00 per week contract just like I was at Loddefjord. I've wished Tor Martin well, and good luck - he's going to need it! Edited December 22, 2023 by Stuniverse Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 22, 2023 Author Share Posted December 22, 2023 Episode 34 - August 2025 | Job Hunting "Those Journalists find me everywhere" -- DAGEN Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
phnompenhandy Posted December 22, 2023 Share Posted December 22, 2023 (edited) 42 minutes ago, Stuniverse said: You know right at the end of the interview sequence, @phnompenhandy, where it asks you if there's anything you would like to ask the Chairperson, we need an option for "Are you a good egg or an evil git?" I did that! In one interview I added some choice truths. The bleedin' compromised hack didn't print it! n.b. Was your erstwhile AM earning a wage as your #2, which he has sacrificed to take over? Edited December 22, 2023 by phnompenhandy 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 22, 2023 Author Share Posted December 22, 2023 29 minutes ago, phnompenhandy said: I did that! In one interview I added some choice truths. The bleedin' compromised hack didn't print it! You can't trust them either 30 minutes ago, phnompenhandy said: n.b. Was your erstwhile AM earning a wage as your #2, which he has sacrificed to take over? No. Tor Martin Hegrenes was one of my early appointments when we were still amateur, before Loddefjord's Board made the decision to go semi-pro, so he was on N/A £0.00 per week as Assistant Manager as well. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 22, 2023 Author Share Posted December 22, 2023 (edited) Episode 34 - August 2025 | Job Hunting "Good News and Bad News" -- Stuniverse: Hello, Hedda. Hedda Berg: Hi ya, Stuni. How are you? Stuniverse: Good thanks. How are you doing? Hedda Berg: I'm good too. What have you been doing with yourself? Stuniverse: Just chilling. I've moved back in with mum and dad in Skien. Catching up with family and friends. Watching Odds Ballklubb play now I have the chance. That sort of thing. Oh, and waiting to hear from you, of course. Hedda Berg: Well, on that note, I have good news and bad news. Which do you want first? Stuniverse: Leave the good until last. Hedda Berg: OK. Well Moss [OBOS-ligaen, Tier 2] didn't shortlist you. And neither, unfortunately, did Lyn 1896 [PostNord-ligaen Avdeling 1, Tier 3]. They did say though, in a back-handed compliment sort of way, that they did feel you would have been an "acceptable fit" if it hadn't been for the strength of other candidates. Stuniverse: What does that even mean? Hedda Berg: I think it means they thought you would be able to do the job but they felt they had stronger candidates. Stuniverse: And the Lyn Board think that'll make me feel better? Hedda Berg: I guess they wanted to let you down gently. Stuniverse: OK. Whatever. You said you had some good news. Hedda Berg: Yes. Indeed. Strømmen [PostNord-ligaen Avdeling 1, Tier 3] want to interview you for the job of manager. Stuniverse: That's amazing. Great news, thank you. Hedda Berg: Strømmen are in free-fall it seems. Promoted to OBOS-ligaen (Tier 2) in 2003 from PostNord-ligaen Avdeling 2, relegated from OBOS-ligaen (Tier 2) last season, are now second-bottom of PostNord-ligaen Avdeling 1 (Tier 3) after 18 matches. Stuniverse: Second-bottom then, with eight matches to keep them up. Hedda Berg: Strømmen are a good football club. I get on well with chairman Conrad Ramsdal. They are a professional club and last season they were playing in OBOS-ligaen so a definite step up from Loddefjord. If anyone can stready the ship and keep them up, you can Stuni. Stuniverse: Does Mr Ramsdal and the Strømmen Board agree with you? Hedda Berg: Only one way to find out. Attend the interview. Stuniverse: Any other options? Hedda Berg: I'm still waiting to hear back from Tromsø [Eliteserien, Tier 1] but I'm not holding out too much hope there to be perfectly honest with you. And Sprint-Jeløy [Norsk Tipping-ligaen Avdeling 4, Tier 4] haven't appointed anybody yet. Stuniverse: I'm not interested in a Tier 4 relegation battle at Sprint-Jeløy. Hedda Berg: OK. Well there's been no further developments anywhere as we're in the mid-season summer break so your options are attend the Strømmen interview or wait, but I'd advise against waiting too long. Strømmen are a good football club. Stuniverse: Fine. I'll talk to Mr Ramsdal and the Strømmen Board. Hedda Berg: Great. I'll let them know and confirm the arrangements for your interview. Good luck. Stuniverse: Thank you. Edited December 22, 2023 by Stuniverse 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
phnompenhandy Posted December 22, 2023 Share Posted December 22, 2023 Two points from safety? do-able! 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 22, 2023 Author Share Posted December 22, 2023 (edited) Episode 34 - September 2025 | Job Hunting "Doing My Research" -- Strømmen IF - Club Details Strømmen Stadion -- Manager History -- This Season [2025] -- Last Season [2024] -- 2023 Season Edited December 22, 2023 by Stuniverse 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 22, 2023 Author Share Posted December 22, 2023 (edited) 13 minutes ago, phnompenhandy said: Two points from safety? do-able! That's my thinking as well, @phnompenhandy I'm trying not to get ahead of myself but, after doing my research, I'm liking Strømmen IF. Got to get offered the job first though 🤞 Edited December 22, 2023 by Stuniverse Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
phnompenhandy Posted December 22, 2023 Share Posted December 22, 2023 Just reassure the board you're happy bumbling around the lower reaches of the 3rd division forever! 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 22, 2023 Author Share Posted December 22, 2023 1 minute ago, phnompenhandy said: Just reassure the board you're happy bumbling around the lower reaches of the 3rd division forever! until I'm Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 22, 2023 Author Share Posted December 22, 2023 Episode 34 - September 2025 | Job Hunting "Strømmen IF Interview" -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- [Note: I did think very carefully about asking for a coaching badge but, in the end, I decided not to as there's only eight matches left to avoid relegation and one of the reasons Board's sometimes give for declining a request is that time is needed on the training ground]. -- 3 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
warlock Posted December 22, 2023 Share Posted December 22, 2023 Strømmen looks like a good opportunity - things are pretty tight in the bottom half and a couple of good results could put you safely away from the relegation zone. Budgets suggest there's a bit of money available, too. Good luck 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 22, 2023 Author Share Posted December 22, 2023 (edited) 9 hours ago, warlock said: Strømmen looks like a good opportunity - things are pretty tight in the bottom half and a couple of good results could put you safely away from the relegation zone. That’s my thinking as well, @warlock. Two key things give me (or the new Strømmen manager, if not me) hope are that 1) the media prediction was 8th so Strømmen are significantly under-performing and 2) it’s incredibly tight in the league table, Strømmen are only two points from safety and only seven points off the top half. 9 hours ago, warlock said: Budgets suggest there's a bit of money available, too. Yes, there’s that too. The wage budget is more than double Loddefjord’s budget plus there’s a transfer budget of around £150K that can be spent on players or re-allocated into wages. 9 hours ago, warlock said: Good luck Thank you. I really want the Strømmen job but I doubt I’ll get it. I’m not the favourite and the chairman Conrad Ramsdal referred to Strømmen being a “big step up” for me. 🤞⚽️ Edited December 22, 2023 by Stuniverse 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 23, 2023 Author Share Posted December 23, 2023 21 hours ago, warlock said: Budgets suggest there's a bit of money available, too. I'll be honest, I'm not sure where Strømmen are getting their money from. Their Stadium only has a capacity of 300 more than Loddefjord's and their attendances (ignoring away supporters) are lower than Loddefjord's. Strømmen do have more season ticket holders than Loddefjord and they pay almost twice the price for the privilege. Strømmen Stadion Spoiler -- Alvoen Stadion, Loddefjord Spoiler Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 23, 2023 Author Share Posted December 23, 2023 (edited) Episode 34 - September 2025 | Job Hunting "Hedda takes me out for dinner" -- My phone rang and it was my agent Hedda Berg. Stuniverse: Hi Hedda. Hedda Berg: Hi ya, Stuni. Listen, I'm in Skien tonight, can I take you out to dinner? Stuniverse: Sure. That would be nice. Hedda Berg: Great. Be ready for 7.30 pm and I'll pick you up. -- Later, after a lovely meal. Hedda Berg: I'm afraid I've got some bad news for you, Stuni. Stuniverse: You've heard back from Strømmen? Hedda Berg: I'm afraid so. They are officially announcing Lars Erik Zetterlund Nilsen as their new manager tomorrow but I wanted to make sure you knew before the news got out. Spoiler Stuniverse: Oh. OK. I was warming to the idea of managing Strømmen. Hedda Berg: It's their loss, believe me, but also their decision unfortunately. I'm sorry. Stuniverse: Thanks. So now what? Hedda Berg: Well we still haven't heard back from Tromsø although, as they are Eliteserien [Tier 1] I think it's unlikely we'll hear anything positive. Ørn Horten [Tier 4] have just sacked their manager and Sprint-Jeløy [Tier 4] still haven't appointed anybody. Stuniverse: I'm not interested in joining a Tier 4 club for a handful of games to try and save them from relegation to Tier 5. Hedda Berg: Then we'll have to wait for another opportunity. Stuniverse: Are you hearing anything? Hedda Berg: Yes. I'm aware of about nine managers who could lose their jobs in the near future. Three in Eliteserien [Tier 1] and three in Tier 4 relegation battles, so we can probably discount them for different reasons but I will sound out any Eliteserien vacancies for you. That leaves the potential for Ranheim and Strindheim at your current level [Tier 3] with Bryne in OBOS-ligaen [Tier 2] an outside possibility. Stuniverse: Didn't Bryne only appoint Johan Andersson a couple of months ago? Hedda Berg: Yes, he's been there 65 days I believe. Stuniverse: That's no time at all. Hedda Berg: That's football for you and Bryne are rock-bottom of OBOS-ligaen, nine points adrift of safety with eight matches to play, -- We then talked about other things. Stuniverse: Shall we get the bill? Hedda Berg: Yes. But this one's on me. My shout. Stuniverse: Thank you. Edited December 23, 2023 by Stuniverse 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 23, 2023 Author Share Posted December 23, 2023 (edited) Until Next Time The Job Hunt continues... -- Any questions... Thoughts, comments, general feedback appreciated. Any questions, just ask and I'll answer them if I can. Thank you for reading and following. Until next time... Stuni Stuniverse Edited December 23, 2023 by Stuniverse Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 23, 2023 Author Share Posted December 23, 2023 (edited) Episode 35 - September 2025 | The Job Hunt Continues "Fancy going to the match?" -- My agent Hedda Berg called again. Stuniverse: Hello, Hedda. I wasn't expecting to hear from you today. Hedda Berg: Hi ya, Stuni. My plans have changed, I'm still in Skien. Do you fancy going to the Oddrane match? Stuniverse: I'm already going. Hedda Berg: Would you mind if I tagged along? We could always exchange your ticket if I can't get one next to you. If you don't mind, that is. Stuniverse: No, that's fine. -- I got spotted by at least two journalists and briefly interviewed by one from TVNORGE. -- Spoiler -- Stuniverse: You didn't bring us much luck, Hedda. Hedda Berg: I'm sorry. Stuniverse: I can't believe we lost to Fredrikstad. Hedda Berg: Do you have to get back or shall we go and get something to eat? Stuniverse: I can eat. Eating would be good. -- Stuniverse: Why do you keep checking your phone? Am I that boring? Hedda Berg: No. You're not boring at all. I heard something yesterday and I'm hoping for developments tonight. It could be good for you and for me. Stuniverse: Developments? Are you hoping a manager gets sacked? Hedda Berg: Well... as long as it's not one of my clients... yeah. Stuniverse: You're incorrigible. -- Hedda Berg: YES! Stuniverse: What? Hedda Berg: Christian Steen has been sacked. Spoiler Stuniverse: Strindheim? Hedda Berg: Yeah. PostNord-ligaen Avdeling 1, so the other Tier 3 division, not the one Loddefjord are in. Stuniverse: And six points adrift of safety with six games to play. Hedda Berg: Well, after Strømmen, this might be your level I'm afraid... and you might keep them up. Stuniverse: Hmmmn. Hedda Berg: Why don't I sound them out. There's no harm in talking to Strindheim if they're interested. Stuniverse: I suppose. Hedda Berg: Shall I contact them then, say you're interested? Stuniverse: OK. Hedda Berg: OK. As soon as I get home. There may be complications though. Stuniverse: What sort of complications? Hedda Berg: Just the small complication of a Board Takeover in flight. Stuniverse: Oh. Just a small complication then. Hedda Berg: Yeah. It could take a while. I started laughing, I couldn't help myself. Hedda Berg: What are you laughing at? Stuniverse: I still can't believe you were excitedly waiting for Christian Steen to get sacked. Hedda Berg: It's my job. It's how I roll. Get used to it. Stuniverse: I'll try. Hedda Berg: At least I'm on your side, Stuni. I've got your back. Stuniverse: Thanks. I think. -- Later that night I got an email from Hedda confirming that my Strindheim application was in but it might take a while. Board room shenanigans and all that. Edited December 23, 2023 by Stuniverse 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 23, 2023 Author Share Posted December 23, 2023 (edited) Episode 35 - September 2025 | The Job Hunt Continues "Another call from my agent" -- My phone rang and it was my agent Hedda Berg again. In fact, apart from my mum and dad, Hedda is the only one who rings me. Stuniverse: Hello, Hedda. What a nice surprise. Hedda Berg: Hi ya, Stuni. Just a quick one, I'm busy. Stuniverse: OK. Hedda Berg: You may have heard already, but there's been some developments in Eliteserien [Tier 1]. Spoiler Stuniverse: I heard Joakim Dragsten had been sacked by Hodd. Not a surprise really, Hodd are cast adrift at the foot of the table. Hedda Berg: Geir Bakke's also gone from Vålerenga. Stuniverse: Oh, that is a surprise. Hedda Berg: Any way, I've reached out to both Vålerenga and Hodd for you. Stuniverse: Thank you. Hedda Berg: Don't get excited though, we know it's unlikely we'll get a favourable response but I'm hoping this helps shake things up a bit in Tier 2 and Tier 3. Stuniverse: Fingers crossed. Hedda Berg: Any way, I have to go. I've got other clients you know. -- Edited December 23, 2023 by Stuniverse Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 23, 2023 Author Share Posted December 23, 2023 Episode 35 - September 2025 | The Job Hunt Continues "More Developments" -- -- My agent Hedda Berg and I exchanged text messages on this one. It was fairly straight forward, since I've already applied for Strindheim I might as well apply for Brattvåg as well. -- Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 23, 2023 Author Share Posted December 23, 2023 Episode 35 - October 2025 | The Job Hunt Continues "Don't do yourself down, Stuni" -- Another phone call from my agent Hedda Berg. Hedda Berg: Hi ya, Stuni. I assume you've heard about Loddefjord? Stuniverse: Getting relegated? Yeah. Not a surprise, it was a mess when I left. I don't think I'd have kept them up. Hedda Berg: Don't do yourself down, Stuni. You may have picked up six points from 12 games but Tor Martin Hegrenes has only picked up two points from 10 games. Stuniverse: So, what you're saying is, I was rubbish but Tot Martin was even rubbishier? Hedda Berg: No, not at all. Remember, at Loddefjord you over achieved in 2023, massively over achieved last season [2024] and were meeting expectations this season. Stuniverse: So people keep telling me. Hedda Berg: It's true. We just need to find you a football club where the Board value your contribution and fully support you. Stuniverse: Good luck with that. Hedda Berg: Well, with that in mind, Brattvåg and Stjørdals-Blink [both Tier 3] have sacked their managers today. Spoiler Spoiler Stuniverse: That's interesting. Brattvåg are in the relegation zone but it's very tight and Stjørdals-Blink should be safe, they are 9th, five points clear of the relegation zone with only four matches left. Hedda Berg: So, am I ok to reach out to Brattvåg and Stjørdals-Blink? Stuniverse: Yes, please. Stjørdals-Blink specifically. Hedda Berg: Phew! I hoped you'd say that because I've already contacted them both. Stuniverse: What are you like, Hedda? Hedda Berg: Doing my job. It's how I roll. I told you that. Stuniverse: You did. Hedda Berg: Vålerenga didn't shortlist you as we expected. Stuniverse: Yes, they're Eliteserien. I'm not ready for top-flight football yet. Hedda Berg: Don't do yourself down, Stuni. Anyway, we've got plenty of plates spinning at the moment and I'm quietly confident. I'll be in touch. -- 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 23, 2023 Author Share Posted December 23, 2023 (edited) Episode 35 - October 2025 | The Job Hunt Continues "Spotted at Skagerak Arena" -- Edited December 23, 2023 by Stuniverse 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 23, 2023 Author Share Posted December 23, 2023 Episode 35 - October 2025 | The Job Hunt Continues "Are you sitting comfortably?" -- My phone rang. Stuniverse: Well, hello, Hedda. Hedda Berg: Hi ya, Stuni. Look, I'm in Skien right now. Can we meet for coffee? Stuniverse: Sure, I've not got anything else planned. -- Hedda Berg: I have good news and bad news. You'd like the bad news first, yes? Stuniverse: Always start with the bad, finish with the good news. Always. Hedda Berg: OK. As we suspected would happen, Tromsø didn't shortlist you. Stuniverse: No surprise. We always thought an Eliteserien [Tier 1] club would be pushing it. The good news? Hedda Berg: Are you sitting comfortably? Stuniverse: Yes. Hedda Berg: Are you sure? Stuniverse: Hedda, get on with it? Hedda Berg: Well you know we said an Eliteserien club wouldn't be interested... Stuniverse: Yes. Hedda Berg: We were wrong, Hødd want to interview you. Stuniverse: They do? Hedda Berg: Yes. They mentioned that they weren't sure as you don't focus on set-pieces but, yes, they want to interview you. Stuniverse: What? That's ridiculous, I had Loddefjord play for set-pieces all the time. Hedda Berg: I know, I know. Sometimes you have to humour football club owners, they don't always know as much about football as they think they do. Stuniverse: Humour, them? Hedda Berg: Yes. Humour them. Stuniverse: OK. Well they'll be an OBOS-ligaen [Tier 2] club next season, Hødd are nailed-on for relegation with five matches to go. Hedda Berg: Which is perfect for you. They won't be expecting anything from you this season and you'll start next season in OBOS-ligaen [Tier 2], with a clean slate, managing at a higher level than you've ever managed at before. Stuniverse: Perfect for whoever gets the job. Hedda Berg: Stuni, I've told you before, don't do yourself down. Stuniverse: OK. Hedda Berg: Believe in yourself. Stuniverse: OK. Hedda Berg: So I'll confirm the details with Hodd. Just tell them you'll focus on set-pieces. Stuniverse: Thank you. Hedda Berg: You're welcome. 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 23, 2023 Author Share Posted December 23, 2023 (edited) Episode 35 - October 2025 | The Job Hunt Continues "Doing my Hødd research" -- -- Hoddvoll Stadion -- This Season - Eliteserien -- 2024 Season - OBOS-ligaen -- 2023 Season - OBOS-ligaen Edited December 23, 2023 by Stuniverse Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 23, 2023 Author Share Posted December 23, 2023 (edited) Episode 35 - October 2025 | The Job Hunt Continues "Meeting Eirik Pettersen and the Hødd Board" -- -- My agent Hedda Berg met me after the interview. Hedda Berg: How did it go? Stuniverse: It was very similar to the Strømmen interview for the most part. They asked me about dressing room atmosphere... And about me applying for a few jobs right now... Hødd will only have limited resources. The Club Vision was interesting and workable but the 5 Year Plan was all about attempting to avoid relegation from the Eliteserien which, given Hødd are nailed-on to go down, didn't go into OBOS-ligaen expectations. Hødd did confirm that they wouldn't be expecting anything from me this season. Eirik Pettersen seemed happy enough to fund a coaching course for me. -- Hedda Berg: Sounds like it went well. Fingers crossed. Edited December 23, 2023 by Stuniverse 3 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 23, 2023 Author Share Posted December 23, 2023 (edited) Episode 35 - October 2025 | The Job Hunt Continues "A Tier 4 Wild Card" -- My agent Hedda Berg had a surprise for me when she rang and it was nothing to do with my career. Hedda Berg: Stuni, I've got two tickets for Odd's visit to Sandefjord if you're interested in going with me? Stuniverse: That would be amazing, Hedda. Yes please. Hedda Berg: It's an evening game so I'll book us a hotel - separate rooms before you get any ideas. Stuniverse: OK. And I wasn't getting any ideas. Hedda Berg: Good. Keep it that way. -- -- Stuniverse: That was a bad defeat against a Sandefjord team we needed to beat. Even more so since we scored first. Hedda Berg: You can't deny it any more, Stuni, Odd really are in the relegation dog-fight. Stuniverse: Yes... and you're the jinx, Hedda. Two Odd games you've been to with me and Odd have lost both games. Hedda Berg: Yeah, that's right... blame me, it's all my fault. Stuniverse: You can laugh but your Vålerenga aren't safe yet. Hedda Berg: As good as though... and my Vålerenga will finish above your Odd. -- Hedda Berg: We've got a few job applications in at the moment so I'd like to review where we're at if that's ok. Stuniverse: Sure, even I'm losing track to be honest. Hedda Berg: Obviously we're hoping Hødd offer you the job after your interview. Stuniverse: Yeah, and after their defeat today, they only need to drop one more point, or for Fredrikstad or Sandefjord to pick up a point, and Hødd's relegation to OBOS-ligaen [Tier 2] will be confirmed. Hedda Berg: OBOS-ligaen will be higher than any other club you're in for though. Stuniverse: Yes. Hedda Berg: We're still waiting to hear from Brattvåg. They lost today so they're still very much in a relegation battle. Spoiler Stuniverse: Yes. I'd say it's probably 40% they'll stay up and 60% they'll drop down into Tier 4. Hedda Berg: Stjørdals-Blink haven't been in contact yet either. They got a good away draw today and I think that should just about make them safe. Spoiler Stuniverse: Yes. I'd say Stjørdals-Blink would be my preferred job after Hødd but they haven't even offered an interview yet. Hedda Berg: You need to be patient, Stuni. Sometimes the process takes considerable time. Stuniverse: I'm not a patient man. Hedda Berg: Try. Stuniverse: OK. Hedda Berg: And there's been a couple of developments today. Spoiler Stuniverse: They could easily be relegated to Tier 4. Hedda Berg: Yes, but Florø have 511 season ticket holders at £170 a pop. Stuniverse: That's a solid fanbase. OK, let Florø know I'm interested. Hedda Berg: Will do. And then there's a wild card to throw into the mix. Spoiler Stuniverse: Mid-table Tier 4. Won't get relegated, but way off challenging for promotion. Hedda Berg: Eik Tønsberg got promoted to Tier 3 in 2023. Stuniverse: And then came straight back down, 11 points adrift of safety. Hedda Berg: They have 524 season ticket holders. Stuniverse: OK. Let Eik Tønsberg know I'm interested but they're probably my least favourite option, but don't tell them that. Hedda Berg: I wouldn't dream of it. -- Edited December 23, 2023 by Stuniverse 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 23, 2023 Author Share Posted December 23, 2023 Until Next Time With my agent juggling six active job applications for me, who knows what the future holds for Stuni Stuniverse? -- Any questions... Thoughts, comments, general feedback appreciated. Any questions, just ask and I'll answer them if I can. Thank you for reading and following. Until next time... Stuni Stuniverse Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 23, 2023 Author Share Posted December 23, 2023 (edited) Episode 36 - October 2025 | Still Job Hunting "Early Morning Wake-up Call" -- The phone in my hotel room woke me. I glanced at my alarm clock and it was early. Very early. Hedda Berg: Stuni. Hello, Stuni. Stuniverse: Hedda? Is that you? Hedda Berg: Hi ya, yes. Stuniverse: Do you know what time it is? Hedda Berg: Yes. How quickly can you be ready to leave? Stuniverse: What? Hedda Berg: How long? Stuniverse: Half an hour. Hedda Berg: I'll see you in the lobby in 20 minutes. We have to go to Ulstein. -- Hedda Berg and I conferred and Hedda pressed for a 25%, not a 35% Top Division Relegation Wage Drop. The Hødd Board agreed to that. Hedda and I also discussed amongst ourselves whether or not to negotiate for a longer term but, to be honest, I'm a little wary of the limited resources the Hødd Board mentioned in my interview. I still haven't seen anything about budgets for next season so I was happy to go with a one-year deal. -- Later, after we'd finished the formalities and were back in the car park. Hedda Berg: Congratulations, Stuni. How does it feel to be the manager of Hødd? Stuniverse: It's an amazing feeling. I can't quite believe it. Hedda Berg: And you get to manage in Eliteserien. Stuniverse: Briefly. For four matches. And then the hard work will start preparing for next season in OBOS-ligaen. Hedda Berg: But you are an Eliteserien manager. Stuniverse: Yes. I don't know how I can ever thank you, Hedda. Hedda Berg: I can think of something. Stuniverse: What's that? Hedda Berg: Let's go and celebrate and, this time, it's on you. Stuniverse: It'll be my pleasure before my £1,500 per week reduces by 25%. Hedda Berg: Better than 35%. Stuniverse: Sure is. I like the way you roll, Hedda. Now drive. -- Hedda Berg: YES! Stuniverse: You and your phone. What? Hedda Berg: It's official. Hødd have made a press release. Stuniverse: Let me see. Hedda Berg: Congratulations. It's now public, Stuni Stuniverse is the Hødd manager. Stuniverse: Thank you so much. Edited December 23, 2023 by Stuniverse 3 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 23, 2023 Author Share Posted December 23, 2023 (edited) Until Next Time -- Remaining Fixtures -- Any questions... Thoughts, comments, general feedback appreciated. Any questions, just ask and I'll answer them if I can. -- Until next time... It's unlikely I'll be pressing CONTINUE before Wednesday 27th December. I'd like to thank everybody who's been reading, following, and particularly liking and / or commentating on this thread (I appreciate it massively and it really does help my motivation to keep updating this thread) and I'll catch-up with you all again after Christmas. Have a Very and a Happy New Year! Edited December 23, 2023 by Stuniverse Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
warlock Posted December 23, 2023 Share Posted December 23, 2023 35 minutes ago, Stuniverse said: How does it feel to be the manager of Hødd? Well, thank god for that - I was in serious danger of getting sucked into the Mills & Boon relationship with Hedda. Back to football!! 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 24, 2023 Author Share Posted December 24, 2023 3 minutes ago, warlock said: Well, thank god for that - I was in serious danger of getting sucked into the Mills & Boon relationship with Hedda. Back to football!! To be fair to Hedda though she's done a cracking job. I thought I was going to end up back managing in Tier 4 or, possibly Tier 3... but... NO, I'll be managing Hødd in OBOS-ligaen (Tier 2) in 2026 after managing four matches in Eliteserien (Tier 1). Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
warlock Posted December 24, 2023 Share Posted December 24, 2023 2 minutes ago, Stuniverse said: I'll be managing Hødd in OBOS-ligaen (Tier 2) The hard work starts now. Good luck And Merry Christmas! 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 24, 2023 Author Share Posted December 24, 2023 (edited) 59 minutes ago, warlock said: The hard work starts now. Yes, I think it will. I can’t even remember how to put together a team on FM24 that wins football matches. Was it one or two matches my Loddefjord team won this season in 12 league matches? I can remember beating Bjarg, but I’m not sure if we beat anybody else. And @I have nothing to say informs me that in the Norwegian Top Two Tiers there’s a squad registration to deal with. I can register 25 players and then five more who are on either youth or amateur contracts but each of those can only play three games each. So that’s something to get my head around and try to keep on top of. 59 minutes ago, warlock said: Good luck Thank you, @warlock I think I’m going to need it! 59 minutes ago, warlock said: And Merry Christmas! Thank you. And a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year right back at you and your family 🎄🎅🏼 Edited December 24, 2023 by Stuniverse Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Punch Posted December 24, 2023 Share Posted December 24, 2023 Congrats on the new job, all the best with the new club. Enjoy your Christmas break! 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
phnompenhandy Posted December 24, 2023 Share Posted December 24, 2023 It was all worth the wait then. Those last 4 games gives you a chance to assess the squad so that you can ditch the deadwood over the summer. And earning real (virtual) cash money too! 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 24, 2023 Author Share Posted December 24, 2023 7 hours ago, Punch said: Congrats on the new job, all the best with the new club. Thanks, @Punch. Much appreciated. 7 hours ago, Punch said: Enjoy your Christmas break! Cheers! You too. 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
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