UEC Mödling Fights for Future as Ice Rink Closes Amidst Hockey Boom

With hockey's popularity surging in Lower Austria, the UEC Mödling club's future is at risk as its rink closes. The club is fighting to secure ice time and ensure the sport's survival in the region.

, and Administrator

2025 October 31 . 7:15 AM

1 min read

In this image we can see persons playing ice hockey. In the background there are sky, trees,... — In this image we can see persons playing ice hockey. In the background there are sky, trees, buildings, street light, name board and fences.

UEC Mödling Fights for Future as Ice Rink Closes Amidst Hockey Boom

The UEC Mödling ice hockey club faces a challenging future as the ice rink in Mödling, where 120 children and 50 adults train, will close after the current season. The club is seeking solutions, including talks with Mayor Silvia Drechsler (SPÖ), due to fully booked ice time in Vienna and high costs in Bruck an der Leitha.

The closure of the rink comes amidst rising interest in hockey in Lower Austria, with around 700 children and 300 adults playing in organized clubs. The 'Eis Union Niederösterreich' aims to provide modern, accessible ice facilities and develop a comprehensive strategy for ice sports, including school programs. However, the region needs at least four additional indoor ice arenas, ideally along the Klosterneuburg-Krems axis, as well as in the Waldviertel and Weinviertel districts.

The club's ice time has been cut, prioritizing recreational skating which generates more revenue. This has raised concerns about the future of the sport in the region. Lower Austria has only three indoor rinks, with one reserved exclusively for hockey, one booked year-round, and one operating for only six months annually. Most rinks in the region are uncovered, and the season has shortened from five months to about two and a half months due to climate change, posing existential threats to the sport.

The club is searching for solutions, including relocating to a new rink. St. Pölten, the largest city in Lower Austria, is being considered as a potential new home for the club. It is well-connected and has an existing sports infrastructure, making it an attractive option. The club is also seeking sponsors to support their operations and ensure the future of ice hockey in the region.