The eternal classic of the ICE Hockey League will take place in Graz on Sunday: The Moser Medical Graz99ers will host the EC-KAC. In a big interview with the “Kronen Zeitung”, President Herbert Jerich spoke about his impressions of the season so far, the particular explosiveness of the duel against Klagenfurt and his vision for the future of the club.
“The potential is much higher than last season”
Jerich is fundamentally satisfied with how the season has gone so far – especially with the development of his team: “The preparation was extremely good, and the way the team plays in the power play – it’s amazing! The potential in the team is much higher than last season. When we have finally found our lines, then even more can be done. And of course I’m thrilled with our goalkeeper Maxime Lagace.”
New goalie as an emotional leader
The new goalie was not only impressive in terms of sport, but also as a person: “It’s difficult to score against him in training. Max is very emotional – unlike Gunnarsson last year. He is the mouthpiece of the defense and sometimes gets loud. I like that,” said the 99ers boss.
“We have to become more efficient”
Jerich was recently less satisfied with the use of opportunities: “We took 150 shots in three games and didn’t score enough goals. That reminded me of last season. I told coach Harry Lange that the trust is there – but he has to develop further. That’s what he did.” The 6-1 win against Villach was therefore an important step for Jerich: “Our final third was perfect. We pushed through our plan and forced our game on them. We want to take this form with us against the KAC.”
Emotions and ambition
The entrepreneur openly admits that he reacts emotionally after defeats: “Philipp Pinter always gets it, I just stay calm on the outside,” laughs Jerich. “After defeats there are always heated but sporting discussions. I want to understand why something doesn’t work. That’s the only way you learn from mistakes.”
Classic against the KAC: “This game gives you goosebumps”
Before the home game against the record champions, the tension is rising in Graz: “This game always gives you goosebumps. A lot of KAC fans are there – right in front of my box. You can only turn off the loud Carinthian sector if you score a lot of goals. Then it gets very quiet,” said Jerich with a smile.
Rivalry & Image
Jerich is calm about the fact that the 99ers are described by other fans as a “nouveau riche club”: “The competition doesn’t know what else to say. Nevertheless, there is respect. I’m proud of what we have achieved. Rivalry is part of it – as long as it stays sporty.”
Goals and visions
In terms of sport, the goal remains clear: “We want a place in the Champions League in the regular round. Then you have home advantage and can choose your quarter-final opponent. I believe in the team – and that we will be at the top in the end.” Jerich also wants to continue investing away from the ice: “I want to offer more for families – for example a laser show during the break, like in the NHL. This is still prohibited because of the roof’s monument protection, but I’m working on a solution. We want to get the fans so excited that they want to be there live.”
Image: Graz99ers
