Mini Jakobsen

Mini Jakobsen

Jahn Ivar Jakobsen, nicknamed Mini, (born November 8, 1965 in Gravdal) is a former Norwegian football player (winger/forward) who has played for, amongst others, Bodø/Glimt and Rosenborg.

During the very early years of his career, Jakobsen played at Junkeren and Grand Bodø, two minor Norwegian clubs in the town of Bodø. Mini's actual professional career as a footballer started at the well-known Norwegian club Bodø/Glimt. When he arrived at the club, Bodø/Glimt played in the second division (The 2nd highest division in Norway at the time), but did gain promotion in 1986. In the Norwegian first division Bodø/Glimt and Mini finished at 8th and 7th place in the 1986 and 1987 season. At Bodø/Glimt Mini was the top scorer for four consecutive seasons: In 1984 with 7 goals (2nd division), in 1985 with 18 goals (2nd), in 1986 with 26 goals (2nd again) and in 1987 with 16 goals (1st division).

In 1988 Jakobsen was transferred to Rosenborg, and after a successful season - winning the Norwegian double and becoming the Norwegian topscorer – Mini got his first cap for Norway. At Rosenborg he became well known as a high quality winger/striker.

After the Norwegian 1990 season Mini was transferred from Rosenborg to the Swiss club BSC Young Boys, and during the next four years played in several different European clubs in Switzerland, Germany and Belgium.

In 1994 Mini returned to Rosenborg, and became a part of Rosenborg's better than expected performances in UEFA Champions League tournament. He then played for Norway in the 1998 World Cup, where they made the second round.

Mini successfully ended his professional career at Rosenborg, by winning the Norwegian double in 1999. He is now working as a sports reporter at the Norwegian TV channel TV 2.