Ice, ice, baby! Ice stock is one of the hottest trends in sports and constantly growing in popularity. Since it enjoys such a long tradition in these parts, we decided to take a peek over the shoulders of our local experts: How do you make the right ice-stock rink? Who produces original ice stocks? And what on earth is a “Moar”? We have collected all the answers for you so that you won’t “slip up” when you step out onto the ice yourself.
A frozen lake. A snowy alpine valley. Trees dusted in white. The landscapes which surround the Steirischer Bodensee at this time of year couldn’t possibly be more magical. The only thing cutting through this wintry idyll are men’s voices. They are cheering, laughing, and tossing around very strange jargon. At the same time, strange wooden things hiss across the smooth-as-glass surface of the rink.
“The game of ice stock is deeply rooted in this region”, explains Fritz Danklmaier from Schladming. He moves cautiously across the ice rink on the frozen lake. His firm grip on the wooden “stock”, however, is very confident. Despite the icy cold, he swings twice back and forth, then releases. “Clack” – a perfect hit! Followed once again by cheering and laughter. Fritz and his five pals from the local ice-stock club know precisely what it takes to land an ice stock right on the mark. “Before the actual game begins, the so-called ‘Daube’, the target cube, is placed on the center cross. In a team competition, the two teams now attempt to slide their ice stocks as close to the target as possible”, adds Fritz, before focusing again and taking careful aim.
Every game is a party
Ice stock, in its many variants, guarantees great fun on the ice: There is, for example, a target competition consisting of four rounds with six attempts in each. And then, there is a distance competition, with victory determined by a combination of the accuracy and direction of the shot. Rapid acceleration of the ice stock will likely lead to success. If a game of ice stock is played according to exact rules, it is known as Olympic Ice Stock. Meanwhile, games played in the traditional way – with no restrictions to the actual playing area, team size or scoring methods – are known as “Kehrschießen”.
In the Schladming-Dachstein Region, ice stock is part of a rich cultural heritage. Though avid participants mainly view it as great fun enjoyed in good company. Regional jargon is also part of the experience, of course. “The team captain is known as the ‘Moar’, for example”, Fritz explains. Traditionally a men’s game, nowadays women are increasingly seen out on the ice-stock rinks as well.”
There’s always a good reason
How do they create a really good rink for the ice-stock players? “First you need a firm subsurface”, explains our expert. “By pouring multiple layers of water on top, you eventually produce a roughly 5 cm thick sheet of ice. We also have a special ice-stock plane that is used to shave the ice to remove any uneven patches.” What else is important aside from the perfect rink, warm clothes, good throwing technique and an eagle eye? The right ice stock, of course! Nowadays, specialized sporting equipment in its own right. They consist of a main body, interchangeable undersides and a wooden handle. Fritz explains: “There are still small manufacturers who turn hardwood on the lathe to create an ice stock, around which a metal hoop is affixed. This is necessary so that the ice stock has the hardness it needs upon impact and the weight is optimally distributed.”
Wintertime fun from a craftsman’s hand
One man who understands this craft is master turner Lukas Lettmayer from Haus im Ennstal. He produces traditional and individual ice stocks for his customers, mostly during the summer months: “With regards to the wood, ash or pear lend themselves best to turning an ice stock on the lathe, consisting of a lower part and the handle – known here as a ‘Zapfi’. The precise length of the handle has to be tailored to the player”, says Lukas. As for the form of the ice stock as a whole, there are regional differences: “We, for example, have somewhat flatter ice stocks with a wide diameter. If you head closer to the Salzkammergut, the diameter tends to grow narrower and the handle longer”. Yet the most important aspect of his craft is: “You have to learn the techniques for making ice stocks from older experts and masters of their trade.
A game for all
The nice thing about ice stock is that it is a social game, the rules are simple, and it can be played by all ages: “Everybody plays ice stock – whether architect or hairdresser, young or old. It is definitely one of the most popular forms of winter entertainment in our region. Because it brings together generations, cultures, even countries”, adds Fritz. This enjoyable sport began back in the 13th century in Scandinavia. In the last few decades, it has undergone huge developments. Clubs were founded, competitions organized, and now ice stock is booming. “Our club has been around since the 50s. But we are always happy to see younger people showing an interest, too.” His tip for you: “You should absolutely give it a try and take some unforgettable memories home with you”.
More info for you
Learn the popular sport of ice stock as part of our weekly program
Thursday 7:30 PM at the GrafenWirt in Aich | participation is free
Tuesday 4 PM at the Waldhäuslalm in Rohrmoos-Untertal, € 8.00 per person incl. drink.
Register through the Schladming-Dachstein Tourist Office, T: +43 3687 2331
