Volleyball

After fire shock for TI boss, the team advances to the semi-finals

The joy after the 3:0 victory on Friday in the first quarter-final match against Hartberg was followed by shock. TI chairman Michael Falkner's apartment was on fire. It was a total loss. Falkner told the "Krone" about his shocking experience and the reaction that touched him deeply. 

TI boss Much Falkner (62) received the news shortly after the game on Friday that his apartment in Völs was on fire. "I thought it was a joke at first. But it wasn't. When I arrived home, 72 people were already on duty. It was a total loss. I bought the apartment when I was 22, and after 40 years it's history."

Great willingness to help
On Saturday, Falkner was back in the USI hall in Innsbruck. "What else could I have done? It's a low blow, but you always have to look ahead. Just like in sport," said the father of three, who was delighted by the great willingness of the volleyball family to help. "It's incredibly nice to know that there is so much support in a situation like this. We could stay somewhere else for months."

It's a low blow, but you always have to look ahead. Just like in sport.

Michael Falkner

Easily into the semi-finals
His girls also celebrated a clear 3:0 (17, 11, 18) victory in the second game, easily advancing to the semi-finals to face Sokol Post Wien. "We didn't take it lightly and went about our work with focus. That was the target," said Falkner, who was very satisfied with the performance of his successful team.

The TI volleyball players are going for the big time this season, aiming to win the AVL title after the Supercup and Cup.