A South Tyrolean ice hockey talent talks about his upcoming move to North America. © Private

The “American Dream” of a South Tyrolean ice hockey talent

In January, his strong performances at the U20 World Championships drew international scouts' attention. He then narrowly missed the Italian Hockey League (IHL) championship title. Now, one of South Tyrol's most promising ice hockey talents is poised to make the leap to North America.

03 Maj 2025

Nathan Garau said after the turn of the year in an interview with SportNewsthat it was his big dream to one day to play for HC Bozen in the Sparkasse Arena. Because he's only 19, however, this dream can wait. For now, the striker wants to tick off another goal: studying at a US college and playing ice hockey at the same time. The first step has been taken.

As announced last week, the Bolzano native is moving to the North American Hockey League (NAHL) with the Elmira Aviators. Elmira? There was something there. The South Tyrolean was already playing for a club from the city in the state of New York in 2022/23. However, after just one season, his adventure in the United States ended. "Family reasons forced me to return at the time, but my wish was always to stay in America," emphasizes Garau, who most recently played for HC Aosta in the IHL and only lost to SV Kaltern with the Gladiators in the final.

A clear roadmap

But how did this second stint in Elmira come about? "I was fortunate enough to play well at this year's U20 World Championship. An American coach noticed me and contacted me," explains Garau, who didn't have to think twice before signing with the Aviators. "I hope to have a good season because my goal is to play college hockey." The NAHL, considered the best US youth league after the USHL, offers the perfect stepping stone.

Nathan Garau in the HC Aosta uniform. © Private

"I don't know too much about the league yet, but I've heard the level is very high," emphasizes Garau. The NAHL consists of 35 teams and has produced numerous seasoned NHL players in the past, such as Connor Hellebuyck and Mike Modano.

The Bolzano native certainly feels prepared for this challenge. "My experience in Aosta was very useful," he says. "I took a step forward both physically and mentally. It was important to play at a semi-professional level, as I was competing against players much older than me. I'm convinced this year will help me enormously," Garau concludes.