Missed the finals, failed to qualify early for the Olympics and the world champion didn’t even have a medal at the European Championships. From a sporting point of view, the European Hockey Championships in Mönchengladbach were anything but ideal.
“It’s very, very disappointing. There was a clear expectation that we would reach the finals with both teams. That’s also our aim,” said DHB sports director Martin Schultze.
The Netherlands became European champions for the seventh time, defeating England 2-1 in the final that had been interrupted due to heavy thunderstorms.
Gentlemen were defeated by strong Belgians
In the game for third place, the German men lost 2-0 to the strong Belgians and showed a very mixed performance. “Unfortunately, we only showed what we can do in phases. We feel sorry for the fans who gave us bombastic support. I’ve never experienced anything like that,” said international Timur Oruz.
Consequence of the modest sporting performance: Both teams have to qualify for the Olympics in January. The women are expected to be in China, the men in the worst case scenario in Pakistan. That would cause problems because of the security problems in the country and a partial travel warning. “I’m very worried that we won’t be able to play with the best team there because some players are too big a risk for personal reasons,” said Schultze.
However, captain Mats Grambusch is certain that everyone will be there. “Not a single athlete will say I’m not going there. You invest so much for the Olympics, you sometimes qualify in Pakistan,” said the young family man.
Forgiving conclusion for women
Despite missing out on the title at the European Championships, confidence in participating in the Olympic Games is high. “The development of the teams is great, so I have no doubt that we will qualify,” said the sporting director. “We’ll take it as it comes and we’ll make the ticket for Paris clear,” promised Oruz.
The German hockey players managed a conciliatory conclusion with EM bronze. “It wasn’t the color we wanted, but it was a wonderful finish,” said captain Nike Lorenz after the 3-0 win over England in the small final. Altenburg wants to have worked through the European Championships thoroughly by the time of the Olympic qualifying tournaments from January 11th to 13th. “And then we want to take the last step up with the team.”
Everyone praised the organization of the tournament at the Mönchengladbach Hockey Park. 70,000 visitors attended the first major German hockey event in twelve years over the ten match days. “The balance is very positive. It was an outstanding event. It makes you want more,” said Schultze.
