Pascal Brunner (left) has extended his contract with HCB. © Vanna Antonello

Will this be Pascal Brunner’s season?

HCB Südtirol Alperia has extended Pascal Brunner's contract. The Merano native is looking forward to a special season.

June 12, 2025

From: dl

It's been over two years since Pascal Brunner first played at the Sparkasse Arena. The Bolzano fans were immediately impressed by the youngster's technical skills and commitment. However, Brunner hasn't quite risen above the status of "talent" yet – partly because former coach Glen Hanlon didn't give him much ice time.

This should now change under new coach Kurt Kleinendorst change. Last year, for example, Brunner made over 20 appearances for his hometown club, HC Meran, in the Alps Hockey League. Now the 22-year-old wants to finally establish himself in the ICE and take the famous next step.

"Over the past two years, I've grown as a player and as a person. Now I'm ready to take on more responsibility and take the next step. I feel the club's trust, and it's an honor for me to be able to wear this jersey – in front of my family, friends, and the HCB fans. We have high expectations for next season, so we have to be ready from the start. The physical preparation has already begun and will be crucial," explained Brunner.

“Now I’m ready to take on more responsibility and take the next step.” Pascal Brunner

Pascal Brunner comes from a true hockey family: His father, Markus Brunner, was one of the most influential players in Italian ice hockey in the 1990s and 2000s, including at HCB Bern – in the 1992/93 and 1995/96 seasons, where he also won the championship with the White and Reds. His grandfather, Hansjörg Brunner, was president of HC Merano for many years, and under his leadership, the club won the Scudetti in 1986 and 1999.

The current squad of HC Bozen:

Gate: Sam Harvey

Defense: Dylan Di Perna, Scott Valentine, Philip Samuelsson (new)

Attack: Dustin Gazley, Daniel Mantenuto, Brad McClure, Matt Bradley, Pascal Brunner, Bryce Misley (new), Shane Gersich (new)