This is how the AKA U18 preseason preparation went
On July 29, the U18 team of the Steiermark Academy – Sturm Graz began its preparations for the 2024/25 season. Under the guidance of the coaching staff, which includes head coach Thomas Hösele, assistant coaches Matthias Rojs and Patrick Tendl, goalkeeping coach Martin Troyer, and athletic coaches Bern Marl and David Tauschmann, 23 field players and two goalkeepers worked intensively on athletic, technical, and tactical skills to ensure they are well-prepared for the upcoming season. Günter Reinprecht, serving as the mental coach, supported the players in their continued development.
The annual training camp took place in Obertraun from August 5 to August 10, where the players were challenged in excellent conditions, both on the field and in the gym, as well as in classroom sessions.
The test matches thus far have also been very encouraging, with all but one being victories; the only exception was a draw against Ferencvaros Budapest.
Currently, from August 24 to August 28, players born in 2008 and 2009 are participating in the prestigious international Nereo Rocco tournament in Florence, ahead of the championship opener against St. Pölten on August 31. The opening match against AKA WAC, which is scheduled simultaneously with the tournament in Florence, will be rescheduled for September 7.
The only downside to the preparation so far has been the serious injury sustained by Marcel Giuliani, and we wish him all the best for his rehabilitation!
Results of the preparation games:
AKA Stmk/Sturm Graz U18 – Ferencvaros Budapest U19 3:3 (1:0) Goals: Weinhandl, Shala, Kobald;
AKA Stmk/Sturm Graz U18 – MTK Budapest U19 2:1 (1:0) Goals: Own goal, Forobosco;
AKA Stmk/Sturm Graz U18 – Illes Akademie U19 5:1 (1:0) Goals: Balcinovic, Peinhart, Kante, Weinhandl, Ghafoori;
AKA Stmk/Sturm Graz U18 – Pecs U19 3:1 (3:1) Goals: Gratzei (2), Weinhandl;
AKA Stmk/Sturm Graz U18 – Illes Akademie U20 2:1 (1:0) Goals: Osayantin (2);
Report and photos: Thomas Hösele
2024/25 Season Preparation: AKA U18 Team’s Journey
Intensive Training for Upcoming Season
On July 29, the U18 team of the Steiermark Academy – Sturm Graz kicked off their preparation for the highly anticipated 2024/25 season. The dedicated coaching staff, led by head coach Thomas Hösele, assistant coaches Matthias Rojs and Patrick Tendl, alongside goalkeeping coach Martin Troyer and athletic coaches Bern Marl and David Tauschmann, guided 23 field players and two goalkeepers through an intensive training regimen.
Focus Areas for Team Development
The training sessions focused on several key areas to ensure players were well-prepared:
- Athletic Development: Building endurance, strength, and agility to compete at high levels.
- Technical Skills: Developing ball control, passing accuracy, and shooting techniques.
- Tactical Understanding: Enhancing team strategies, positioning, and game intelligence.
Mental Coaching Support
In addition to the physical and technical training, Günter Reinprecht played a vital role as the mental coach, offering invaluable support that geared players for both personal and athletic growth. Mental resilience can be crucial in high-pressure situations, and his guidance helped instill confidence in the young athletes.
Annual Training Camp in Obertraun
The highlight of the preparatory phase was the annual training camp held in Obertraun from August 5th to 10th. Here, the team faced rigorous challenges under optimal conditions:
Training Camp Activities
- On-Field Sessions: Daily practices focused on technical and tactical drills.
- Weight Room Training: Strength conditioning to enhance player fitness.
- Classroom Sessions: Tactical discussions and game analysis to improve understanding of strategies.
Preseason Test Matches
The team has engaged in several test matches, achieving impressive results overall. The outcomes of the games reflect the hard work and dedication put in during training:
Results of Preparation Games:
| Match | Result | Goals Scored By |
|---|---|---|
| AKA Stmk/Sturm Graz U18 vs. Ferencvaros Budapest U19 | 3:3 (1:0) | Weinhandl, Shala, Kobald |
| AKA Stmk/Sturm Graz U18 vs. MTK Budapest U19 | 2:1 (1:0) | Own Goal, Forobosco |
| AKA Stmk/Sturm Graz U18 vs. Illes Akademie U19 | 5:1 (1:0) | Balcinovic, Peinhart, Kante, Weinhandl, Ghafoori |
| AKA Stmk/Sturm Graz U18 vs. Pecs U19 | 3:1 (3:1) | Gratzei (2), Weinhandl |
| AKA Stmk/Sturm Graz U18 vs. Illes Akademie U20 | 2:1 (1:0) | Osayantin (2) |
Participation in Nereo Rocco Tournament
Currently, from August 24th to 28th, the squad consisting of players born in 2008 and 2009 is participating in the prestigious international Nereo Rocco tournament held in Florence. Competing in this tournament provides invaluable experience as they prepare for the rigorous demands of the championship. Their journey kicks off with an away game against St. Pölten on August 31st, while the opening match against AKA WAC will be rescheduled for September 7th.
Upcoming Matches and Expectations
The U18 team is set to embark on its championship campaign with great enthusiasm and high expectations. The combination of effective training, successful test matches, and participation in international tournaments positions the team for promising performance in the season ahead.
Injury Update
Despite the positive atmosphere, the preparation has not been without challenges. The only downside has been the serious injury to Marcel Giuliani, to whom we extend our best wishes for a speedy recovery and rehabilitation.
Conclusion
The rigorous preparations of the AKA U18 team under the guidance of their coaching staff set a solid foundation for the coming season. With a focus on athleticism, technical skills, and mental coaching, the players are ready to tackle the challenges ahead with determination and teamwork.
Report and Photos: Thomas Hösele
