Pinzgau’s methods inevitably leave
some challenges, such as making sure
everybody’s voice, wherever they may be,
is heard equally. It’s a logistical challenge
but the response so far has been positive.
Their team is truly international.
The squad, which includes Ziege’s son
Alessandro at the heart of the defence,
has an Austrian core but also contains
players from the UK, Hungary, Gambia,
Burundi and New Zealand.
Off the pitch, efforts have been made
to cater for both English and German
audiences by providing content and match
commentaries in both languages.
Ziege understands the ambitions to
develop the team but believes the club’s
humble beginnings deserve respect too.
“There are lots of things you should
always be aware of,” he says. “How you
are doing things, the area we are in, the
traditions of the people and how this
club is part of their lives.
“It’s a mix of respecting the local
people’s thoughts and also trying to
become a professional club.”
Were Pinzgau to reach the top tier, it
would further strengthen the prominence
of Salzburg teams.
Once upon a time, the capital Vienna
was the focal point of Austria’s footballing
success, with Rapid and Austria Vienna
claiming the majority of league titles.
Then came Red Bull Salzburg, who
still have catching up to do, but have won
a staggering seven titles on the spin.
Such has been their dominance,
officials introduced a mini end-of-season play-off league to allow the top
six teams to contest the trophy and the
bottom six to settle who goes down.
Regardless of whether Pinzgau’s
formula propels them to similar success,
Ciociola hopes their exploits will set a
refreshing example.
“I would like to see the model
catch on in the future. I think that
fans anywhere in the world deserve
to have this experience.”Saalfelden...
Surrounded
by mountainsScenic...Pinzgau’s
footballing facilities