The Austrian Table Tennis Federation (ÖTTV) has chosen a new direction during its General Assembly held at the Seepark Hotel in Klagenfurt. Hubert DOBROUNIG, President of the Carinthian regional association, was elected as the successor to former President Wolfgang GOTSCHKE, who resigned in mid-March. DOBROUNIG received 23 votes against 17 for challenger Rudolf SPORRER.
At the same time, SPORRER was elected to the newly created position of Vice President with a clear 29-11 majority. The newly introduced dual leadership structure is intended to ease tensions that had developed both between the federation and political institutions, as well as among the regional associations themselves.
The General Assembly lasted until 1:07 a.m., as delegates first had to approve amendments to the federation statutes in order to create the new leadership model.
DOBROUNIG, who works professionally in marketing, media and communications, emphasized that his approach will focus on dialogue, clarity and cooperation.
“Different interests need to be brought together in a constructive way. I believe in a respectful and solution-oriented working atmosphere,” said the 60-year-old newly elected President.
His deputy, Rudolf SPORRER, will contribute his extensive experience as former ÖTTV Secretary General and is expected to help strengthen cooperation among the regional federations. The 73-year-old Viennese official also serves as Chairman of the Rules Committee and maintains strong connections within the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF).
“We will divide responsibilities according to our areas of expertise. I can certainly benefit from SPORRER’S experience,” added DOBROUNIG.
Alongside the new leadership, Secretary General Mathias NEUWIRTH was confirmed as Vice President for Organisation.
In the financial sector, the federation announced that discussions are ongoing regarding a mutually agreed transition scenario involving Conrad MILLER. At the same time, the position of Sports Director will be officially advertised.
“We want to find the best possible solution,” DOBROUNIG explained.
David HUBER, coach of Wels, was appointed as Chairman of the Bundesliga, succeeding Linz chairman Günther RENNER.
The Presidents’ Conference will now be led by Burgenland President Helmut JÄGER, Vorarlberg President Andreas ADLBOLLER and Lower Austria President Eduard HERZOG.
In addition, Upper Austria honorary president Manfred MÜLLNER was elected Honorary President of the Austrian Table Tennis Federation.
