Ahead of the start of the upcoming Champions Hockey League season, we asked the Head Coaches of the Belfast Giants' six Regular Season opponents what their thoughts are on the team from the capital of Northern Ireland - here's what they had to say!
HC Bolzano Head Coach Niklas Sundblad: "I don’t know them well yet, but we will study them in the coming weeks. The EIHL has been growing and developing over recent years, and the game they play is similar to the North American style.”
Red Bull Salzburg Head Coach Oliver David: “I’m not going to lie, competition aside, I’m pumped to make the trip to Belfast. From a hockey standpoint, I have a lot of respect and admiration for how the club seemingly unite their city, their strong fan base, and their ability to consistently compete for league championships.”
Dynamo Pardubice Head Coach Václav Varaďa: "Belfast are almost a traditional team in the CHL by now! The Giants are the best in their league and play a Canadian style of ice hockey. They are good skaters and strong at chasing the puck. They’ve defeated some strong teams over the years and have a nice playing advantage in their home arena. They always do their best, regardless of if they are leading or losing the game.”
Lukko Rauma Head Coach Tomi Lämsä: “An experienced and most-likely physical and straightforward team. Lots of North American players on their team and it shows in their style of hockey. Inarguably the crown jewel of modern EIHL hockey.”
Tappara Tampere Head Coach Rikard Grönborg: “Belfast is a hockey-crazy town with a beautiful arena. The Giants have been a top team for many, many years. Their assistant coach played at the same university as me. Sheldon Keefe’s brother is the Head Coach, so I am expecting a physical, hardworking and straight-thinking team.”
HC Innsbruck Head Coach Mitch O’Keefe: “I expect a very intense game. Both sides will be looking to win points. I imagine a great fan base from Belfast will be making the trip so we will need to be ready early. They have a great history since Adam Keefe has taken over and it will be for sure a playoff-style game.”
Find out more about the Belfast Giants in the video below!