Ahead of the start of the upcoming Champions Hockey League season, we asked the Head Coaches of Red Bull Salzburg's six Regular Season opponents what their thoughts are on the Austrian team - here's what they had to say!
Skellefteå AIK Head Coach Robert Ohlsson: “They are a really strong team, they have many import players and are very experienced.”
SønderjyskE Vojens Head Coach Anders Førster: “ICE champions three years in a row. They are a smart playing team that have very good tactics and discipline. They will be a big challenge for us, but a challenge we are looking forward to.”
Unia Oświęcim Assistant Coach Krzysztof Majkowski: “In the last three years they have won the ICE Hockey League three times. Many consider them the best-organised Austrian club. Their living legend is forward Thomas Raffl. The 38-year-old has been playing for them since the 2010/11 season! He is also the charismatic captain of the Austrian national team. David Kickert guards the net, having had the opportunity to play against the Polish national team. On the other hand, Chay Genoway and Ryan Murphy excel as offensive defensemen, providing quality during powerplays. The team is overseen by American coach Oliver David, so we expect a playing style similar to that of German teams.”
ZSC Lions Zurich General Manager Sven Leuenberger: “The flagship club from Austria with well-trained players. We know Salzburg from the pre-season and are aware that they will be a tough opponent.”
Växjö Lakers Head Coach Jörgen Jönsson: “Three straight championships in the ICE. A lot of experience on the team and I expect Salzburg to be a great opponent.”
Sparta Prague Head Coach Pavel Gross: “A club that relies on a well-developed and functioning academy. I believe Salzburg have high goals in the CHL, which they will try to meet this season. We will have to give a very good and disciplined performance.”