The threatened World Championship boycott, which the players also considered in the interest of the next generation, forced the ÖEHV to act. On the way to an agreement, the media reported extensively on the issue; ORF even dedicated a segment to it, including an interview with national team player Antonia Matzka on ZIB2.
Equality is no longer an issue that exclusively concerns sports. It permeates all areas of society. It is all the more remarkable how quickly public attention disappears once a dispute is settled.
The Price of Passion
However, this is not truly surprising.
Women's ice hockey continues to play a subordinate role in the Austrian media. It primarily receives greater attention when conflicts or historic successes generate headlines. Unfortunately, the most recent case has once again demonstrated this.
The players in this country achieve great things. With a few exceptions – such as Anna Meixner and Theresa Schafzahl – no active player can make a living from ice hockey. Therefore, she is forced to pursue a profession alongside her sport.
This means: from early morning until afternoon, the players are at work; in the evening, they go to training and then back home. And they do this several times a week. 18-hour days are not uncommon.
In addition, there are significant financial burdens. Besides their own living expenses, players often have to pay for their equipment themselves.
Private changing rooms are an absolute rarity. Not to mention the persistent clichés.
Appreciation Must Not Be an Exception
The players take all this upon themselves to pursue their passion. This is barely, if at all, appreciated.
As many of them emphasize, they also take on these burdens to make it easier for future generations. They are forced to highlight the grievances that have persisted for decades. Otherwise, nothing would ever change.
However, it's not just the players who can make an important contribution to a better future. Federation officials, sponsors, fans, and the media also have a responsibility.
Their successes, stories, and sacrifices deserve to be honored. Not only when boycotts are threatened or a historic World Championship is approaching, but regularly.
That is the least we can do for women's ice hockey in Austria.
