"It's going to be a great experience for us," started Max Steinacher, the Sports Manager of HC Innsbruck, "it's great to be involved with Europe's elite and face the very best teams."

Helmut Schlögl, Managing Director of reigning ICE champions Red Bull Salzburg, was clear that his side are aiming for only the "very best", adding that Salzburg want to go "as far as we can".

Luca Tommasini, Communication and Digital Media Manager of Italian side HC Bolzano, said that their goal was to "do their very best in this challenging competition".

"We have made the Playoffs in our last two participations, so we will do our best to make them again," he specified.

The representatives were then asked who they were most looking forward to facing.

"I'm really excited to be facing Skellefteå," said Steinacher, "I think they are one of the best organisations in Europe." 

"Belfast at home will also be really nice, as will be visiting the Swiss and German leagues," he added.

Schlögl also highlighted Belfast when asked about which opponents he is looking forward to facing, noting that the atmosphere in the club from Northern Ireland is "something I'm really looking forward to".

Bolzano's Tommasini had this to say: "We are facing six very very good teams, but I think the most challenging games for us will be the three on the road."

And what did the three ICE teams have to say about the new competition format for 2023/24? 

Steinacher said he doesn't have much to compare to since Innsbruck will be making their debut in the CHL this season, but that they are generally really excited and that the experience "will be amazing".

"It's going to be interesting and different to face teams only once," was Schlögl's main highlight, while Tommasini noted that the changes are "very good for all teams that are participating".