A fundamental change took place at the Graz 99ers in the early hours of yesterday. Coach Harry Lange was informed by President Herbert Jerich of his leave of absence via text message at 5 a.m. – just a few hours after the 2-3 defeat after extra time against the Black Wings Linz, as the “Kleine Zeitung” reports.
Jerich explained the decision as a personal decision for which he takes “100 percent responsibility”. For Harry Lange, the news came as a surprise – and painful, as he revealed to the “Kleine Zeitung”: “It hurts, but I have to accept this decision. I regret it very much because I think we were on the right track.”
The 99ers are currently only four points behind the league leaders and have scored points in eleven of the twelve games so far. Statistically, the team is also in a good position: at the top of the league when it comes to outnumbered players, and fourth in the power play. “It hurts because I know that the team can achieve its goals. It’s a shame that I can’t be there anymore,” said Lange, who played 376 games for Graz as a player and is fourth in the club’s all-time best list.
Sports director Philip Pinter, who is taking over the team on an interim basis, was also surprised: “It’s unexpected that it’s happening at this time. But you have to respect the decision, roll up your sleeves and do the best possible for the club.”
Image: HCI / PAPA Productions
