Kraetschmer: Praise for the fans

The first morning session in the presence of the corporation board member is symbolic, we might even say a picture of the year 2018. The fans that traveled to the training camp, the team and the entire crew. Everyone is united - and not just for a picture.

Kraetschmer sees a particularly strong team spirit within the Austria Wien family these days. Something that makes the club unique - that is by no means the case everywhere. "Our fans are characterized by a very fine sense. For example, when I see how well newcomers are accepted not only by the team, but also by our supporters, I know that the concept of the Austria Wien family is lived by all of them."

The most recent example is Stefan Stangl’s signing. “When you talk to fans and follow social media, you can already see that our fans, on one hand, have a respectful attitude and, on the other hand, also understand the athletic side. Stefan and all the other newcomers are extremely well received in the team."

Kraetschmer arrived in Cyprus on Tuesday. He enjoys the team spirit being close to the team but there is a lot of work on the agenda. "Shortly after my arrival we had a very good conversation with the team council. We also hold many group and one-to-one talks during this time, which are not always possible due to the fact that the team is still training in Steinbrunn until the summer."

“The impression on the ground is very positive. The accommodation choice proved to be great, the pitches are good. That's the most important part. I see a team in a good mood, a coaching team that is focused and a crew that pulls together. Our goal is to qualify for the European Cup. Everyone knows what it's about.”

Opening game: opponent is being set

In addition, Kraetschmer registered a great deal of anticipation for the coming July. “The opening of the new Generali Arena is approaching. We will set the opponent of our opening game within the next three weeks. In addition, there is an extensive stadium tour for our team during the international break.”

Many topics around the stadium “will also be discussed in a meeting with our fan club representatives before the start of the season”. Kraetschmer emphasizes how important this date is to him.

Focus of the next months

Concerning the priorities of the near future, Kraetschmer says that in addition to infrastructure, internationalization for a club like FK Austria Wien is without alternative. “And internationalization also requires further steps in terms of digitization. We want to continue this in combination with our values.”

The good connection - also to former Austrians - proves to be advantageous here. Kraetschmer recently exchanged views with Rubin Okotie and Sun Xiang.

New Twitter account

"If you aim at such projects, you have to see them through," said the 46-year-old, who launched a personal Twitter account on Wednesday as well, "to take up position about topics regarding Austria Wien faster and more straightforward".

Kraetschmer explains that they are increasingly dedicating time to their Club identity - their roots. "The topic of brand management is extremely dynamic - we are now in a phase where, after many analyzes, we are approaching implementation."

Coupled with the dominating priorities of the near future, the sporting spring and the return to the new Generali Arena, there is a lot to do. "We know very well where we want to go," says the corporation board member and is looking forward to "extremely exciting times for Austria Wien".

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