Release from 13.10.2025

"It’s about fears of existence, fears of the future" – Phil Lukas on the most challenging moment of his career

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In the first episode of the Mental Health series, part of the "OneSport.ManyFaces" campaign by the win2day ICE Hockey League, Phil Lukas, Head Coach of the Black Wings Linz, speaks openly about one of the most difficult phases of his life – the transition from professional athlete to coach.

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The former Linz captain gives honest insights into the mental strain that comes with the end of an active playing career: fears about the future, uncertainty, and the loss of familiar structures. “It’s not about losing a game or conceding a goal – it’s about a low point in my career, when I felt that the end might be near,” says Lukas.

He talks about the importance of seeking help and how that experience now shapes his work as a coach – in dealing with mistakes, emotions, and relationships.

With this series, the win2day ICE Hockey League aims to show that mental health is a fundamental part of both athletic and personal well-being – and that openness and support are the true signs of strength.

Watch the full video with Phil Lukas here:




Austria:
• 112 National Emergency Number
• 116 123 Ö3 Helpline (first contact point for anyone in personal distress)
• 142 Telephone Counseling
• 147 Rat auf Draht – Counseling for Children and Youth

Italy:
• 112 National Emergency Number
• 02 2327 2327 Telefono AMICO Italia
• 0800 86 00 22 Samaritans – ONLUS
• 800 274 274 Toll-free number (mobile: 0229007166)

Hungary:
• 112 National Emergency Number
• 116 123 LESZ – Hungarian Association of Emotional Support Services
• 116 111 Blue Line – Anonymous child crisis helpline

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• 116 111 TOM – Helpline for Children and Youth
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