Michael Lang is back after a long injury break. © Max Pattis

Pre-playoffs: Ritten looks forward to a returning player

For the Ritten Buam, the fifth season of ice hockey begins on Tuesday. At 20 p.m., they host SG Cortina Hafro for the first game of the pre-playoffs at the Ritten Arena. A best-of-three series will determine who advances to the playoff quarterfinals. A comeback is in store.

March 02, 2026

From: pm/det

During last season's playoffs, Michael Lang suffered a serious tendon injury that required surgery and sidelined the 25-year-old for eight months. Now he's making his comeback in the pre-playoffs.

“It was difficult to maintain my motivation for a long time. Hours and hours in rehab and the weight room to get fit again – that was tough. But when I was finally able to train on ice with the guys again, I was overjoyed and it was all worth it,” Lang recalls.

Val Gardena and Merano are also involved.

The Ritten native has been back on the Buam's roster for several weeks now, bringing even more stability to the defense. Lang's focus is now entirely on the upcoming season. To reach the playoffs, they first need to overcome SG Cortina Hafro. For the pre-playoffs, coach Mike Halmo will have to do without Kevin Fink, while Brandon Alderson is doubtful.

Besides the Ritten/Renon Buam, two other South Tyrolean clubs are in action in the pre-playoffs. HC Meran will face EC Bregenzerwald and will have home-ice advantage, as will HC Gröden, who will play against Kitzbühel.

Alps Hockey League, pre-playoffs

Game 1 (Tuesday, 20 p.m.)

HC Meran – EC Bregenzerwald
Rittner Buam – Cortina
HC Gröden – Kitzbüheler EC (8:30 pm)