Bulgarian oppositeDanail Dimov, who grew up in the academy ofCherno More BASK, is part of a historic moment – the last home match ofHYPO TIROL Volleyball in Innsbruck, which ended witha third consecutive 3:0 victory against Hartberg in the final playoff for the Austrian championship title! 🇦🇹

The series is best-of-7, but Hypo already leads with3:0 after decisive victories – all three without losing a set. Saturday evening in theUSI-Halle was more than just a match. It was anapotheosis. A last dance on a stage that has witnessed titles, triumphs, and countless emotions over the past two decades.

The crowd filled the hall to capacity. The applause was endless. Not just for the victory –but for everything that HYPO TIROL meant. For the spirit. For the greatness. For the consistency. For the players who passed through this club. ForDanail Dimov, who was also part of this farewell spectacle.

And yes - although the series could continue with a fifth match if Hartberg wins on April 23,this was the last home match. The last appearance of the professional teamin Innsbruck. And the club did everything possible to make this farewell a worthy one.
One of the most successful Austrian volleyball clubs - Hypo Tirol Innsbruck, announced that after the end of the season it will cease its participation in professional sports. The decision comes as a surprise, especially considering that the team is undefeated in the Austrian league and is aiming for its 13th championship title.
Why is Hypo Tirol giving up?

The main reasons that led to this drastic decision are the lack of prospects for the development of professional volleyball in Austria and financial difficulties. Head coach Hannes Krontaleler commented at the farewell press conference that volleyball in Innsbruck, and throughout the country, no longer receives the necessary support. According to him, the club has been neglected by both sponsors and local authorities.

"We lost faith that anything would change. Every association wearing traditional Tyrolean costumes is treated better than us," Krontaleler said with irony.
What's next for the club?

After the end of the season, Hypo Tirol will focus its efforts on developing young talents. The club will retain its U18 and U20 teams, which will continue to be led by Stefan Hrtyansky. An interesting fact is that the Krontaleler family, which has been the driving force of the club for many years, will completely withdraw from its management.

"I forbade my son to take over Hypo. Our family has done enough for volleyball," Krontaleler added.

HYPO TIROL already hasthe Supercupandthe Austrian Cupin its collection this season. Now it's only a step away from immortality.one victoryoftreble- a historic finish that few teams have achieved. And what better way to leave the stage than this -undefeated, at the top?

After the match, the captains and coaches bowed to the fans. The players received individual applause. Many with tears in their eyes. Some because it was their last match in their favorite hall. Others because they know they will no longer see this team in this lineup. And still others because they realized what Austrian volleyball was losing.

Among the ovations, songs, and emotion,something important was missing- official recognition from the city and region. There were no congratulations, speeches, certificates, or symbolic gestures. Not a single representative of the authorities honored the event. But one person did not forget the fans - managerHannes Krontaleropened the VIP lounge for everyone, as a gesture of respect and gratitude.

Danail Dimovparticipated in the last performance in front of a home crowd for HYPO TIROL - a club that remains in the history of volleyball. Maybe there won't be a fifth match. Maybe April 23 will be an end and a beginning at the same time. Butthe match will remain forever in the heartsof all who love volleyball.

Thank you, HYPO TIROL.
Thank you for the volleyball.

Danail Dimov (No. 17) and his colleagues with a final photo together in the hall! For the last time - together.💙

We await the final on April 23rd... or a new page in history.