Eight clubs in the third highest league – Upper Austria has been in charge in the Central Football Regional League since the summer. At the end of the autumn season, a strange situation arises in the 15th round: for the first time there will be no derby on the weekend.
Gurten wants to pull off a surprise at home against league leaders Leoben before the winter break. “It will be a mammoth task. But we even scored one goal less than Leoben. If we bring this stability again today, we have a chance,” says Gurten coach Peter Madritsch.
Regardless of the outcome of today’s game, he is satisfied with the autumn – and also praises his local rivals: “Derbies are always a great story. Upper Austria’s football has generally improved in quality, with three clubs alone in the top four.”
An era ends today in Vöcklamarkt at the home game against Deutschlandsberg: Robert Hingsamer, the good soul of the club, is quitting all club functions after 25 years. “I gave it my all and was there with all my heart, but at some point it has to end.” At the end he has one wish above all else: a victory.
**Interview with Gurten Coach Peter Madritsch and Vöcklamarkt Club Soul Robert Hingsamer**
**Interviewer:** We’re here today with Gurten’s head coach, Peter Madritsch, and Robert Hingsamer, a stalwart of Vöcklamarkt football, who is stepping down after 25 years. Thank you both for joining us.
**Peter Madritsch:** Thank you for having us.
**Robert Hingsamer:** It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Interviewer:** Peter, let’s start with you. Gurten is facing a tough challenge against league leaders Leoben this weekend. How are you feeling about the match?
**Peter Madritsch:** It truly is a mammoth task. Leoben has been strong this season, but we’ve been competitive—we’re only one goal behind them. If we can find that same stability we showed earlier in the season, there’s no reason we can’t surprise them.
**Interviewer:** Given that it’s the last game before the winter break, how important is this match for you and the players?
**Peter Madritsch:** It’s critical. Not just for points, but for morale. Regardless of the outcome, I’m very proud of our autumn performance. Plus, it’s exciting that Upper Austria has three teams in the top four. It shows the quality of our local football.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of local football, Robert, your contribution to Vöcklamarkt has been immense. After 25 years, what emotions are you feeling as you step down?
**Robert Hingsamer:** It’s bittersweet, really. I’ve given my all, and this club has been my second home. I’m honored to have been a part of its journey, and while it’s tough to say goodbye, it feels like the right time. I want to see the club continue to thrive and hope they keep competing at this level.
**Interviewer:** Do you have any final wishes or advice for the club and its supporters?
**Robert Hingsamer:** Absolutely. I hope they maintain that community spirit and continue supporting the team passionately. Football is about the love for the game and the bonds we create. I’ll always be cheering from the sidelines.
**Interviewer:** Thank you both for sharing your thoughts. Best of luck to Gurten in their match against Leoben, and Robert, congratulations on a remarkable career at Vöcklamarkt.
**Peter Madritsch & Robert Hingsamer:** Thank you!