German Championship. 6th Division. Women
The Regionalliga Frauen (6th tier) in German women's football is a vibrant competitive level where ambitious clubs from federal states clash for promotion to the 2. Bundesliga or survival. Featuring teams from Bavaria, North Rhine-Westphalia, and Baden-Württemberg, it delivers grassroots football with rising professionalism and regional flair.
History and foundation
The league's roots trace to the 1980s reforms in German women's football, with the DFB structuring its pyramid. The 6th division solidified in the 1990s as part of the Regionalliga system. Highlights include TSV Munich-Arnecker from Bavaria's ascent to higher tiers in 2004. The 2010s brought reorganization amid surging interest post-Germany's 2007 World Cup win. Fun fact: In 2020 pandemic disruptions, matches resumed early, showcasing resilience. Stars like Sara Doorsoun, whose career sparked in similar divisions, emerged here.
Tournament format
Format: 3–4 regional groups of 12–16 teams (varying by season/state). Double round-robin (home and away). Group winners enter playoffs for 3. Liga promotion; bottom teams relegate to Oberligas (7th tier). Season runs August to May with winter break. 2023/24 features Süd, Nord, West, Ost groups. Prizes are modest, but promotion stakes are sky-high.
Interesting facts
High-scoring: average goals 3.2–3.8 per match, driven by attacking play and defensive frailties. Top scorers 2022/23: Lena Obermeier (FFC Frankfurt 01, 28 goals), Anna Schultz (SV Meppen II, 24). Standouts: Julia Simon (rose to Bundesliga, now in US), Miriam Jappe (150+ career goals from 6th tier). Rising star Felicia Walter (19, TSG Hoffenheim II) dazzles with dribbling and vision, drawing scouts.