Rungsted Seier Capital secured Denmark’s single CHL qualification spot last week when they were crowned Danish champions. As they will feature in the competition for the first time in their history, we’ve looked at their current form and rise to success.
Rungsted Seier Capital were founded on New Year’s Day 1941 and are one of the oldest active ice hockey clubs in Denmark. They have played in Denmark’s first tier throughout their history, only dropping to the second tier on a few rare occasions. They are regarded as a strong and traditional team that regularly participate in the playoffs and compete for trophies every season. Throughout their history they have won four Danish championships.
Recent times have been harsh to the club, as they struggled with financial difficulties in the 2008/09 season resulting in the club being relegated the following year. They spent three years in the second tier but were able to restructure and climb back to the top tier of Danish hockey in time for the 2013/14 season. The club recently made international headlines when they renamed their home rink “Bitcoin Arena”.
Under new head coach Erik Hjalmarsson, who played for two seasons for the club as a player, Rungsted finished top of the Metal Ligaen with a league high of 149 goals. Their strong form carried them all the way through the playoffs to the finals, where they faced SønderjyskE Ishockey. After four decisive wins they were crowned champions of the league for the first time since 2002.
Be sure to watch out for forward Nikolaj Rosenthal in the upcoming 2019/20 CHL season. He shined in postseason, topping the charts as top scorer with 14 goals. Canadian teammate Charlie Sarault is also a threat in front of goal, recording 15 assists – also a postseason high.
Since they will be the only Danish club featuring in this season of the competition, they will have an extra level of motivation, as they will be representing both club and country alike. Be sure to follow Rungsted Seier Capital to see just how well they cope with their debut season in the CHL.