Lutz Rauch is a former baseball player of Austrian league. In 2000’s he has made great contribution to the development of sport in the National League and in the Austrian National Team as well. Now he lives and works in Gulu, Uganda. After his baseball career has ended he returned to his usual life – work, family, entertainments with friends.

You have moved to Uganda in May 2015? How did it happen?

Studying at the university, I always wanted to work in countries that just start their development. Experts in the field of water management (by the way it`s my profession) can find interesting work in these field. So, I have applied to the “Horizont3000” organization which cooperates with the countries of Africa, Latin America and Oceania to get a job in Gulu. Thus, we have signed a contract for two years’ project.

Tell us about your life in Gulu

In fact, nothing out of the common. I work from 8.30 am till 5.00 pm. I meet with my friends on weekends, I go in for sport, watch TV and sleep. Almost, I have the same life as it was in Vienna.

Was it difficult to leave sport career?

Baseball is still an important part of my life. I often write the “Metrostars” team by e-mail or Whatsapp with questions, comments and remarks towards game. I watch games via Internet. Of course, sometimes I feel lack of baseball in my life. But, at the same time, I don’t have to take so many tasks as it was before.

Is there development of baseball in Africa and Uganda?

MLB often organizes various competitions in Africa. Players from Africa are invited. Last competitions were held in South Africa. Also, there are different seminars for coaches. These seminars attract more and more foreign coaches in Uganda for further development of baseball in this state. Unfortunately, baseball isn`t very known and popular sport in Uganda, but with media support more and more often it can be seen different articles.

You have already spent six months in Africa. Will your life change after this experience?

It is useful experience, which has given me a lot. I saw, how people live in Uganda. The life here differs from Austrian one a lot, because here there are other needs and problems. And it gives you opportunity to pay attention to the things that are important in your life. I have learned again here how to appreciate small and big pleasures of life. Firstly, I am happy about water supply and safe drinking water, electricity without interruption is also great advantage. Anyway, I am very glad I have made up my mind to such step. Undoubtedly, Uganda is amazing country, which is still not studied and opened thorough and thorough.