After the permanent closure of the Bruck ice stadium, Styrian ice sports are facing the next serious blow. Because even in Frohnleiten there is serious discussion about the end of the ice rink.
The local council is due to decide on this on Thursday – the clubs have already been informed. According to the “Crown newspaper“A ball sports hall could be built instead of the ice surface.
A closure would hit hobby teams, young talent and ambitious young people hard. There is already a lack of ice time in Styria, as association president Philipp Hofer emphasizes: “We have more and more players, but less and less ice.” Hofer speaks of a “existence-threatening situation” in the Frohnleiten case and is already seeking discussions with politicians and associations.
Gloomy forecast for the future
Leoben is also wobbling: Although the current season is secured, a report on alternative use of the hall – i.e. without ice operation – has been commissioned. The reason is high costs and necessary renovations. The hall currently causes around 400,000 euros in losses every year, 200,000 of which are energy costs. Leoben’s mayor, Kurt Wallner, told the “Crown newspaper“: “I’m bracing myself with my hands and feet against one end of the ice rink. We’re still able to run the business, for example preparing the ice and dehumidifying the arena.”
With Bruck closed, Frohnleiten facing possible closure and Leoben uncertain, Styrian ice hockey is at a critical turning point. Association President Hofer warns: “Leoben is a pivotal point. It’s impossible to imagine what would happen, it could no longer be played here.”
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