Ahead of the start of the upcoming Champions Hockey League season, we asked the Head Coaches of Frölunda Gothenburg's six Regular Season opponents what their thoughts are on the reigning CHL Champions - here's what they had to say!
SaiPa Lappeenranta Head Coach Raimo Helminen: “We’ll face a fantastic team that plays top-level European hockey. As reigning CHL Champions, Frölunda will be a great indicator of our current form when we play against them.”
KooKoo Kouvola Head Coach Jouko Myrrä: “Frölunda are the reigning CHL champions!”
Bordeaux Boxers Head Coach Olivier Dimet: “Frölunda is one of the biggest names in European hockey and has an incredible history in this competition. They are the reigning champions, so it is obviously a huge challenge for us. Finishing our Regular Season in Gothenburg against the defending champions will be a very special experience for our players and for the whole club. We know the level of this team, but it will also be a fantastic opportunity to test ourselves against one of the best teams in Europe. We will go to Gothenburg with the desire to learn, play our hockey and be as competitive as possible.”
Kölner Haie Head Coach Thomas Berglund: “Frölunda enjoy an excellent reputation and have been one of Sweden and Europe’s leading clubs for years. Every year, they put up a top-tier team with strong players and they will once again be very competitive this season. The fact that this match-up will also be our first home game makes the encounter even more special. We’re looking forward to the atmosphere and the opportunity to take on the reigning CHL Champions in front of our fans.”
Storhamar Hamar Head Coach Petter Thoresen: “One of the best clubs in Europe and a tough opponent. A well-known club which will draw fans to our building on a Saturday night!”
Bílí Tygři Liberec Head Coach Jiří Kudrna: “Frölunda? What more is there to say?! One of the absolute best teams in all of Europe and historically the most successful team in the CHL. This year, they will once again have only the highest goals. We are absolutely thrilled that they are coming to Liberec, allowing us to face them in front of our home crowd. This game against such a high-quality, successful team full of standout individuals will be a true hockey spectacle.”