Mario Graf Takes Over Sporting Leadership of Vienna Women
With an eye on the upcoming season, First Vienna FC 1894 is laying the foundations for the continued growth of its women’s and girls’ football programs. Mario Graf has been appointed Head of Women’s Football, while former Vienna player and captain Pia Zimmer will oversee the club’s girls’ youth development.
In his new role, Mario Graf will be responsible for the overall sporting development of women’s football at Vienna. His duties include squad planning, budget management, as well as the leadership, coordination, and further development of the entire women’s and girls’ section. The 53-year-old from Pernitz has already been involved with the Vienna women’s team in a supporting capacity since last season and is familiar with the club’s structures.
Graf brings extensive experience in women’s football. From 2022 to 2025, he served as Sporting Director at USV Neulengbach. Prior to that, he was the club’s head coach from 2017 to 2020. In the spring of 2021, he coached Austria Vienna’s women’s team before taking charge of Altenmarkt during the 2021/22 season. Holding a UEFA A Licence, Graf has accumulated many years of experience in various coaching and leadership positions within Austrian women’s football.
Mario Graf on his new role:
"Vienna is a traditional club with a clear vision for women’s football. I am very grateful for the trust placed in me and for the opportunity to actively shape the sporting development of this area. Together with the entire team, we want to continue along the path we have chosen, promote young talents, and create optimal conditions to ensure that Vienna Women are positioned sustainably and successfully for the future."
Pia Zimmer Appointed Head of Girls’ Youth Development
There will also be an important change within the youth sector. Former Vienna player and long-time captain Pia Zimmer has been appointed Head of Girls’ Youth Development.
Following the end of her playing career, the 31-year-old completed her coaching education and has since been heavily involved in the training activities of Vienna’s youth academy.
By taking over responsibility for the girls’ youth program, Pia Zimmer is making the next step in her own development. In her new role, she will coordinate and support the sporting development of the club’s female youth players.
First Vienna FC 1894 is delighted to have secured two dedicated and experienced personalities, Mario Graf and Pia Zimmer, for these key positions within its women’s and girls’ football department and looks forward to tackling the coming challenges and development steps together.
