Drazen Grujicic – New Assistant Coach at Hohe Warte
Since September, Hans Kleer has been on the sidelines as head coach of the first team. At his side now works Drazen Grujicic, a reliable and socially minded assistant coach who ideally complements the existing staff. Kleer and Grujicic share a long-standing collaboration and mutual respect. The former player and coach not only brings professional expertise but also a wealth of experience in working with athletes. In an interview, he explained how he understands his role as assistant coach and what training philosophy shapes him.
Drazen, what is the role of an assistant coach?
- Every assistant coach probably interprets that differently. Some see themselves as robots who just serve the head coach, others want to outshine the head coach and make a name for themselves. Neither of those apply to me. I am a team player who thinks independently and is more than just a co-worker. I value exchanging ideas with the other coaches but also contribute my own thoughts.
You’ve known Hans Kleer for a long time. What connects you two?
- Hans’ coaching philosophy and mine were similar from the very beginning. During our time coaching together at Stripfing/Weiden and in Traiskirchen, I was able to learn a lot from him. He has tremendous experience. Over time, a friendship developed between us that is built on mutual trust.
What can a player expect from you?
- At first, as a coach, you are an unknown to the players. They size you up and observe. After a few weeks, they judge you—both professionally and personally. What matters most is whether you are seen as honest and authentic. My approach to coaching emphasizes the human and social side. I make an effort to listen well and offer myself as a point of contact. As an assistant coach, you can also serve as a bridge between the team and the head coach.
How do you handle defeats?
- Not well. I am a “winner type,” and losses frustrate me and ruin my weekend. But defeats are part of the game, and my two daughters (ages 10 and 2 ½) are good at distracting me. By the start of the new week, I’ve regained my energy.
What does happiness mean to you?
- The health of my family is above everything else. Happiness is also where I currently stand as a coach. After my time at FC Traiskirchen, I was without a club for over a year. At first, that was a relief, but after a while, I began to feel the itch again. Then, out of nowhere, the opportunity at Vienna came along. For me, that was luck. In Döbling, the work is very professional, and that has raised the quality of my work to a new level. Working at Hohe Warte is a real step up for me.
What do you say to a player who hasn’t been selected for weeks?
- Disappointments are part of football, and not being selected doesn’t necessarily have to do with performance. That applies to players as well as coaches. Everything can change in an instant. You have to accept that. One phrase I always use as a coach is: “Convince me.” I can only advise young players to keep giving their all in training, even if they’re not being picked. Consistency applies to me as well. I also want to coach at a higher level one day, and I know that wishing alone isn’t enough. It takes motivation and determination, and it’s up to me to achieve that. Well … luck also plays a role in coaching, but sometimes you can force it.
Does that determination also apply to the team?
- Yes, absolutely. The team has high quality, and the squad is well put together. Hans Kleer not only has a good reputation, but he’s also a very good coach. The goal of winning the championship requires determination, passion, and hard work. I will do my part to ensure that the title is more than just a wish, but there’s still a lot of work ahead of us.
