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!
Storhamar Hamar Head Coach Petter Thoresen: “We look forward to welcoming Zurich to Hamar, especially Rudolfs Balcers, who I had on my team when I coached the Stavanger Oilers. I recognise quite a few names from the Swiss national team here.”
Ilves Tampere Head Coach Tommi Niemelä: “The reigning Swiss champions and one of the biggest and strongest clubs in the competition. A great opportunity for us to challenge ourselves.”
Straubing Tigers Head Coach Tom Pokel: “Another very strong opponent. The 2024 Swiss champions are a tough team to crack, especially away on the road in Zürich. Zurich are a team that boast a lot of experience with over 2,100 NHL games played in their line-up and 440 games played at IIHF World Championships. Marc Crawford is back at the helm as Head Coach for the 2nd time and won his 2nd Swiss championship in 2024. He has the Lions playing championship defense allowing a league-best of only 110 goals against in the regular season.”
Red Bull Salzburg Head Coach Oliver David: “Zurich are the most familiar team to us as they’ve participated in our Red Bull Salute pre-season tournament, and on a personal level, I have coached against their core group of players in the National League prior to my time here in Salzburg. They are one of Europe’s best clubs, have a very deep roster, and collectively possess a high level of skill to play the game. What a great challenge to look forward to.”
Sheffield Steelers Head Coach Aaron Fox: “Facing the Lions in Zurich at a premier venue and a top Swiss team should be a very tough match-up. They have some imports of the highest standard and a bunch of national team players. Another top opponent that will be very difficult test for us.”
KAC Klagenfurt Head Coach Kirk Furey: “The Lions enter the competition as current champions of Switzerland which consequently makes them one of the top favourites for the 2024/25 CHL season. No matter if we talk about the hockey team, the brand, the infrastructure or the economic power, they are one of the leading organisations in European hockey and we are excited to welcome them in Klagenfurt again.”