Ahead of the start of the upcoming Champions Hockey League season, we asked the Head Coaches of KAC Klagenfurt's six Regular Season opponents what their thoughts are on the Austrian team - here's what they had to say!
Bordeaux Boxers Head Coach Olivier Dimet: “Klagenfurt are a very experienced team and a club with a strong European tradition. They are used to playing in this kind of competition and have players who know this level very well. For us, starting our first Champions Hockey League campaign in Klagenfurt will be a big challenge. But it is also a great opportunity for our players to discover this level and see how we can perform against such an experienced team.”
Fribourg-Gottéron Head Coach Roger Rönnberg: “The most successful club in Austrian hockey history will be another challenge. A team that always competes.”
KooKoo Kouvola Head Coach Jouko Myrrä: “KAC Klagenfurt are a traditional top team and organisation in Austrian hockey.”
Storhamar Hamar Head Coach Petter Thoresen: “One of the top Austrian clubs, great history and a good team with lots of experience in the CHL. We look forward to playing them at home!”
Kölner Haie Head Coach Thomas Berglund: “Even though I haven’t personally been to Klagenfurt or played against them, I’ve heard a lot about them from many Swedish players. Klagenfurt have been one of the top teams in Austria for many years. Even though they didn’t win the league last season, we know they’re a very strong team and will give us a tough fight.”
Eisbären Berlin Head Coach Éric Dubois: “Klagenfurt are the Austrian record champion and one of the most dominant teams in the ICE Hockey League. They are able to count on experienced players such as Thomas Hundertpfund, Raphael Herbuger, Matt Fraser or Nick Petersen. Eisbären Berlin lost their last game against Klagenfurt in last year’s CHL Regular Season, so we have been warned and want to take revenge for that defeat.“