Mike Halmo takes over the reins at Ritten. © Max Pattis

At 34: Mike Halmo takes over at Ritten

The Ritten/Ritten/SkyAlps have parted ways with head coach Dave MacQueen with immediate effect after failing to reach the Master Round of the Alps Hockey League. His successor is a prominent figure in the South Tyrolean ice hockey scene.

February 02, 2026

From: pm/dl

Failure to reach the Master Round in the Alps Hockey League, the stated goal for the first phase of the season for the Rittner Buam SkyAlps, has led to the dismissal of Head Coach Dave MacQueen. "We had to react now and want to send a signal to the team that we expect more from them in the remaining challenges of the Alps Hockey League," stated Sporting Directors Dan Tudin and Alexander Eisath in unison.

"We thank Dave MacQueen for his professional cooperation over the past months. We are by no means dissatisfied with his work, but due to the recent results, we felt we had to send a message, especially to the team. We wish him all the best for the future, both personally and professionally."

Halmo will become head coach

The current assistant coach, Mike Halmo, will now take over as head coach. "We are very satisfied with Mike Halmo's work as assistant coach and head coach of the U19 team and are convinced that he can continue his new role as head coach of the AlpsHL team with the same diligence," said Tudin and Eisath about the 34-year-old. who will make his debut on Wednesday.

Mike Halmo (left) has legendary status at HC Bozen. © Nabil Kacem

Halmo, who ended his playing career last year after several successful years with HCB Südtirol, came to Ritten in the summer of 2025, where he gained his first coaching experience. Roberto Scelfo, 54, will step in as assistant coach for the Ritten Buam. Scelfo also coaches the Junior Buam youth team and will support Halmo for the remainder of the 2025/26 season.