This year's Unisport Austria championship in "small pitch soccer" took place in Salzburg/Rif. Altogether, five women's teams and six men's teams vied for the coveted championship titles. The weather conditions at the tournament couldn’t have been more ideal and the JKU women's team proved they were on top of their game. The women succeeded in defending their title thanks to a tremendous team effort, once again bringing the UAM championship title home to Linz.

The men's team was unfortunately not as lucky as some team members suffered injuries in their ranks on the first day of the match. This, however, made finishing 4th all the more impressive. The men’s team coach, Andreas Hutterer, was satisfied with the match and reported that the two injured players are recuperating: "All players gave it their all and even though we were down in the number of players, we still placed 4th. Compared to last year, the overall tournament standard has once again improved. Congratulations to the ladies’ team and great organization by the Salzburg USI Sport Team. Next year, the men’s team aims to continue rising in the ranks."

The winning women's team was naturally delighted! Following four wins on the first day, the next day proved to be a bit tougher for the Linz Express. However, this was followed by a defeat, a draw, and two clear victories and ultimately a well-deserved tournament win (goal difference: 13:3). We spoke with Captain Veronika Breitfuß (22) who said the win came as a surprise to the team.

How did you and the team celebrate the win?
Veronika Breitfuß: After the tournament, all of us (the men's team and the women's team) went out to eat, but then headed home afterwards as everyone was pretty beat from the past two days.

Was the Linz team among the favorites or was it a surprise?
Veronika Breitfuß: I would say it was more of a surprise. We entered the tournament without any particular expectations and just tried to do our best out during each match.

What position do you play?
Veronika Breitfuß: I actually play in midfield center but on account of fewer team members, this season I mostly played defense center. During the tournament, I also took on the role of central defender as part of our 3-1-2 system.

What are next season’s goals?
Veronika Breitfuß: My personal goals are to play a good season this year with my club, TSV Ottensheim, and try to defend the title again next year at the USI tournament.

What is your major and can you recommend the program to others?
Veronika Breitfuß: I am majoring in mechatronics. The program is demanding but if you are interested in technology, it’s very interesting.