Germany’s Straubing Tigers are eager to make a strong first impression as they embark on their CHL debut. Although the DEL championship has appeared beyond the reach of the Tigers, the club has been featured in Germany’s top league for over fifteen consecutive seasons, while reaching the quarter-finals and semi-finals several times. 

As Head Coach of the Tigers, Tom Pokel has shared the team’s excitement and determination for their appearance in the 2022/2023 CHL season. When asked about upcoming opponents, Pokel referred to Cracovia as “an unknown variable" and as "a team that will have the underdog mentality looking to beat or upset anybody and everybody.” 

A long-awaited return for Cracovia is finally here, as they gear up for their third CHL appearance. Fresh off their first-ever IIHF Continental Cup title earlier this year, a first for any Polish club, Cracovia looks better than ever as it enters the European tournament. Leading the team is head coach Rudolf Roháček, who has stated the team’s goal is “to get out on the ice with a winning mentality, so it doesn’t matter who we face, we will compete with everyone.” 

“The Tigers will be a challenge for us because many Canadian players play in their team, which means that their hockey is based on a physical style of play and our squad needs to defend and look for chances on the counterattack,” stated Roháček.

To top off the good odds, Cracovia will surely soak up the love of its fans, as they play their first match on home ice!