New coach Kurt Kleinendorst: HCB South Tyrol wants to conquer the top 6!

New coach Kurt Kleinendorst: HCB South Tyrol wants to conquer the top 6!

HCB South Tyrol has had an exciting year and looks at the upcoming 2025/26 season with mixed feelings. After a strong third place in the basic round, the team was unable to convince in the playoffs and left in the semi -finals against Red Bull Salzburg. This setback also led to changes in the coaching staff.

Coach Glen Hanlon announced his resignation at the age of 68. The club management then committed 64-year-old Kleinendorst, who has extensive experience both in North America and in Europe. Kleinendorst, who was most recently active in the DEL and AHL, has a remarkable coaching career, which includes winning the Calder Cup 2010 with the Binghabon Senator. He was also active as a scout for the New Jersey Devils and won the Stanley Cup in 2003.

Cader changes and new strategies

The HCB South Tyrol squad is supplemented by the commitment of six new legionnaires in the new season, while the core of the local players is preserved. The newcomers include Bryce Misley from Asiago and Cristiano Digiacinto, who is considered a local for the first time. The defense is supported by experienced players such as Mark Baberio, Philip Samuelsson and Max Gildon.

The team's center axis is made up of Matt Bradley, Brett Pollock, Bryce Misley and Daniel Mantenuto. In total, the squad now comprises 21 legionnaires and domestic players, whereby an overhang of players should be created for future liabilities. The focus is particularly on the development of the U24 players, such as Pascal Brunner. In contrast, Enrico Larcher has to put back.

Demands and expectations

Those responsible are concerned about the high average age of some of the new Legionnaires, as the performance of Scott Valentine and Dylan Di Perna in particular remains unclear. Gazley, who is 37, performs well but has difficulty finishing. In addition, the HCB still has problems with penalties and physical play, which needs to be improved in the coming season.

Dieter Knoll, Managing Director of the HCB, emphasizes the international experience of Kleinendorst and its endeavor to form a hard -working team with speed and offensive game. Kleinendorst also emphasizes the importance of teamwork and the right approach to success in ice hockey. Another progression in the squad is intended to ensure that the HCB South Tyrol can play in the top 6 of the league again.

Statistics will continue to play a crucial role in ice hockey in evaluating player and team performance. The detailed recording of shots on goal, penalties and other important game aspects enables the analysis of the games and thus creates a basis for improvements. Proper use of these statistics will be crucial to achieve desired goals and increase performance levels.