Ahead of the start of the upcoming Champions Hockey League season, we asked the Head Coaches of ZSC Lions Zurich's six Regular Season opponents what their thoughts are on the Swiss team - here's what they had to say!
Pinguins Bremerhaven Head Coach Alexander Sulzer: “The draw for the upcoming CHL season has given us a challenging but also very attractive group of opponents. Zurich are a top address in Swiss ice hockey with great individual class. It’s a great opportunity for us as a team to measure ourselves against the best and gain international experience. The CHL is a competition where every detail counts - and we’re really looking forward to this challenge and to thrilling our fans in Bremerhaven with top-class ice hockey.”
GKS Tychy Head Coach Pekka Tirkkonen: “Last season’s CHL Champions and Swiss champion two years in a row. Also, plenty of experience in the CHL and international hockey. An absolute top team in Europe — fast, aggressive, with top European-level players.”
Odense Bulldogs Head Coach Jason O’leary: “Reigning CHL Champions and champions of the Swiss National League, these guys have a deep roster, talent to waste and an undeniable history of success. So fast and skilled, it’s going to be a great opponent to have here in the Spar Nord Arena!”
Brynäs IF Head Coach Niklas Gällstedt: “A technically skilled team with plenty of international experience. Brynäs know it will take a top performance to match such a seasoned opponent.”
Sparta Prague Head Coach Pavel Gross: “Zurich are the reigning CHL Champions, but also league champions. It’s clear they are going to be a tough opponent that has some great players. The National League is known for fast hockey.”
Ilves Tampere Head Coach Tommi Niemelä: “Defending CHL Champions and Swiss champions, best team in Europe at the moment. The greatest challenge and a great opportunity to face them.”