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Richard Gelke: Overcoming setbacks and shining as a leader for Selb!
Richard Gelke, top performer for Selber Wölfe, returns optimistically after injury for the new season and takes the lead.
Richard Gelke: Overcoming setbacks and shining as a leader for Selb!
On June 23, 2025, the Selber Wölfe ice hockey club faces major challenges, but there are also bright spots. Richard Gelke, one of the team's top performers, has regained confidence despite a long-term injury. In his seventh season, the 33-year-old continues to wear the jersey number #92 and has established himself as a real identification figure for the club. Managing director Sven Gerike emphasizes how important Gelke is for the team and the location. “His connection to Selb is incomparable,” says Gerike, emphasizing that Gelke’s return after a serious injury is pleasing for everyone.
Last season was anything but easy for Gelke: a persistent injury forced him to watch from the sidelines as the team fought to stay in the league. “I fully expected to return, but that was simply not possible,” says Gelke, describing the frustrating weeks. Coach Herbert Hohenberger and the entire club regret his loss, as Gelke could have made a big difference with his leadership and style of play. Despite the difficult circumstances, Gelke never doubted that he would stay in Selb, but sees the setbacks as learning opportunities.
Intensive rehabilitation and new goals
After intensive rehabilitation, Gelke encourages his fans with the promise that they will start the new season fit. “The recovery is going well, I’m optimistic,” he explains. His goal is not only to play successfully himself, but also to act as a role model for the younger players. “I will take on a leadership role in the newly formed team and hope to motivate the boys with my experience.” In addition, he plans to actively work in the youth area of the Selber Wölfe Juniors in order to soon acquire his coaching license.
The support of the fans is particularly important to Gelke. "Thank you for your support! Let's tackle it together and get the best out of the new season," said Gelke. This shows how strong the cohesion is within the team and the club's environment. The entire town of Selb is behind him, not least because of the positive atmosphere that Gelke brings to the team with his zest for life.
Research and development in ice hockey
The DEB has set itself the goal of setting national and international standards when it comes to the development of top performance. The fact that correct training methods and their validation as well as dealing with injury mechanisms are crucial shows how important scientific knowledge is for sport. It's clear that the path for successful ice hockey players goes far beyond the ice, towards a holistic approach to training and health.