A few days ago, a ceremony was held in the Rossau barracks to honor the top athletes of the Austrian Armed Forces who achieved outstanding performances in the 2023/2024 winter season. The athletes received honorary awards from Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner in recognition of their successes at world and European championships.
“Today’s award is a recognition of the hard work and talent of our army athletes and a sign of the Austrian Armed Forces’ appreciation for the hard work and commitment they invest in their sport,” said Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner.
The lugers were once again among the big winners this season. With numerous victories and podium places, eight medals at the World Championships and four gold medals at the home European Championships in Innsbruck, the results were extremely impressive. The performances of the newly formed doubles team were outstanding. Platoon leaders Thomas Steu and Wolfgang Kindl crowned their debut season with the big crystal globe for the overall World Cup in addition to the European and World Championship medals. With Corporal Sabine Schöffmann, Alpine Parallel Snowboarding, Corporal Daniel Huber, Ski Flying, and Private Johannes Aigner, Giant Slalom, Downhill and Super G, another three Army athletes added their names to the list of overall World Cup winners. Pvt. Melissa Köck brought the season to a glittering conclusion with five gold medals at the Deaflympics.
The Army Sports Center has been promoting Austrian competitive sport with its ten Army Sports Centers since 1962. Every year, up to 495 people, 20 of whom are disabled athletes, are part of the Army Sports support program. Army sport traditionally provides numerous participants in major sporting events such as the Olympic Games, European and World Championships.
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