Dass man zufrieden ist mit dem, was man hat, das macht man als Mensch unterbewusst.
Early last season, the eventual champions from Graz inquired about Maier, while KAC, in turn, hesitated with a contract offer. Thus, the Carinthian decided to break away from home and start a new adventure.
Maier explains in an interview with LAOLA1: "I've already become very comfortable in Klagenfurt." That doesn't mean the 26-year-old gave less in training or rested on his secure spot in the team.
It's more about: "Being content with what you have. As a person, you do that subconsciously."
Money was not decisive
However, he wanted to get even better.
That's why he decided to leave his youth club. "To be able to take another step forward, I need a new environment, a new challenge," he emphasizes.
Maier wants to make it clear that it wasn't primarily about money. "It's not true that I only came here for that." However, he admits to having received a good offer from Graz, which further facilitated his decision.
Top destination in Austria
He had certainly noticed that some friends and national team colleagues had good experiences with their transfers to the Murstadt (Graz).
"Graz is really a top destination in Austria. You can see that things are progressing. Not just with the team, but also the players are taking several steps in their development," says Maier.
Where Maier wants to improve
The defenseman quickly defined the areas in which he wants to continue improving.
"I particularly want to take another step in my own zone. I want to play hard, win battles, and get under the opponent's skin."
The 94-time international also wants to contribute offensively. However, goals and points are secondary for him in his role.
Back in Klagenfurt soon
The first few weeks in Graz were "unfamiliar" for him, he admits. However, Maier had no problems adapting to a new system.
"Hockey is hockey," says the experienced defenseman, "but we play somewhat differently in our own zone here than in Klagenfurt. There are different tactical elements, but not significantly different ones."
Viele haben mir nur das Beste gewunschen - nur gegen den KAC nicht.
The ÖEHV national team player doesn't have to wait long for his return to Klagenfurt. The Graz99ers will be guests at KAC as early as September 27th. "I'd be lying if I said I hadn't already marked the date on my calendar," Maier smiles.
Understanding for "mixed feelings" among fans
The duels between the teams have become significantly more emotional, especially since Herbert Jerich's entry into Graz. "Those were real playoff games recently. The arenas in Graz and Klagenfurt were always full, and the atmosphere was particularly good," Maier recounts.
Maier shows understanding for the "mixed feelings" that might have arisen among KAC fans due to his move to their direct rival.
However, he also states: "Many wished me only the best – just not against KAC."
