Graz99ers ice hockey team receives audience with Pope Leo XIV

A delegation from the Graz99ers, the reigning Austrian ice hockey champions, was received by Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican on Wednesday. The group included club president Herbert Jerich, general manager Bernd Vollmann, coach Dan Lacroix, and captain Manuel Ganahl, accompanied by Styrian Diocesan Bishop Wilhelm Krautwaschl.

The Graz99ers are the first Austrian ice hockey team to receive such an honor. During the meeting, the delegation presented the Pope with a custom orange jersey featuring the name “LEO XIV” and the number 99, along with a club scarf. Additionally, President Jerich and his family presented a certificate for a 20,000 euro donation intended for Papal Missions.

Following the audience, club officials expressed deep gratitude for the recognition of their success. The Pope offered his best wishes to the team for their upcoming title defense.