Skates instead of skis: Alex Vinatzer trains at HC Gröden

Preparations for the new season are in full swing at the local ice hockey clubs. This is also true for the reigning champions of the Alps Hockey League (AlpsHL), HC Gherdëina, who welcomed a special guest at training on Thursday.

August 14, 2026

From: sn

Athletes who participated in multiple sports during their childhood are currently very popular. One example is Jannik Sinner, who was once among the most promising talents on the local ski slopes. Alex Vinatzer also played ice hockey as a child before dedicating himself fully to skiing – with success, as evidenced by his three World Championship medals and four World Cup podium finishes.

The 26-year-old rekindled his old passion on Thursday evening. Vinatzer, who occasionally cheers on HCG in Pranives during the winter, trained with the first team. "I stopped playing ice hockey when I was eight," Vinatzer told us. SportNewsSince then, he could count his appearances on the ice on one hand. Nevertheless, the technical specialist cut a good figure on the ice.

Finally, there was a team photo. © HC Gröden

“My first shot went in immediately, but after that, the goals stopped,” he said with a broad smile. “I gave it my all and was completely exhausted after training. But I had a lot of fun and would love to do this every year from now on.” At the end of training, Vinatzer also challenged his good friend Hannes Kasslatter to a running duel, which he certainly held his own against.

Off to Ushuaia

South Tyrol's best slalom and giant slalom skier will soon be swapping his skis for his usual equipment. On Sunday, Vinatzer will travel to Ushuaia with Luca De Aliprandini, Tommaso Sala, Filippo Della Vite, Tobias Kastlunger, Simon Talacci, Tommaso Saccardi, Edoardo Saracco, Giovanni Borsotti, and Giovanni Franzoni, where the A-team will be honing their skills until September 10th.