“We need to form a good coalition – just like in the federal government,” said LIU Jia following her election as the new Vice President for Sport. The ÖTTV “Athlete of the Century” takes over the role from Stefan FEGERL. President Wolfgang GOTSCHKE was confirmed in office with a 21:17 vote against challenger Norbert DARABOS during the general assembly held in the Mirror Hall of the House of Sports in Vienna. The other vice presidents continuing their roles for the three-year term are Secretary General Mathias NEUWIRTH (Organization) and Finance Chief Conrad MILLER.
“The early elections were meant to clarify the situation and give the newly elected board a chance to bridge divisions and work constructively for the future of the federation. We must come together, devote our full attention to the sport, and focus on solutions,” said GOTSCHKE after the vote.“We presented our program and ideas before the general assembly; now it’s time to put the processes into action – together. Everyone is invited and encouraged to participate. Our goal must be to become united again.”.
GOTSCHKE, who has led the federation since summer 2021, concluded: “I hope we will be judged by facts and performance, and that we will be given the chance to work constructively for the benefit of our athletes and the sport.”
FORMER European champion LIU Jia was elected Vice President for Sport with a 23:19 vote, narrowly defeating Stefan FEGERL.
“I’m looking forward to the challenges. Just like in any coalition, we have to find compromises within the federation. The most important thing is that athletes feel well-supported by us, and that the issues of the past truly stay in the past,” said LIU Jia, visibly moved.
Also confirmed in their roles as ÖTTV Vice Presidents were Mathias NEUWIRTH (Organization) and Conrad miller (Finance). Günther Renner from Linz will continue as Chair of the Bundesliga, and the Presidential Conference will be led by Helmut JÄGER (Burgenland), Andreas adlboller (Vorarlberg), and Eduard Herzog (Lower Austria).
