Marco Marzolini will continue to wear the Ritten jersey. © Max Pattis

Rittner defense takes shape

One has been a key player in the Rittner Buam defense for what feels like an eternity, while the other is still at the beginning of his career. But both the experienced Marco Marzolini and the young David Tauferer will ensure that the next season's goals are kept to a minimum: both will remain on the Ritten.

July 23, 2025

From: pm/sn

Gegen Marco Marzolini Playing is unlikely to appeal to any attacker in the Alps Hockey League. Although he is "only" 1,76 meters tall and weighs 80 kilograms, the defenseman is a tough nut to crack and always puts his foot on the line without fear. The Fassa Valley native has been playing for the Rittner Buam SkyAlps since the 2019/20 season and has now made over 300 appearances for the Blue-Reds. His uncompromising defensive style, combined with his good technique and game intelligence, is an important component of the Buam's defensive collective. This was also the case last season, in which the 28-year-old Marzolini played 66 games and contributed 19 points (two goals).

Like Marzolini, David Tauferer a defender for the Rittner Buam. He is a native of Ritten and made his way from the youth program to the Alps Hockey League team, where he has been a member since the 2023/24 season.

David Tauferer is a native of Ritten. © Max Pattis

Last season, the 20-year-old, 1,85-meter-tall, 78-kilogram native from Tauferer played in 56 games and recorded four assists. Like many of his peers, he's part of the young generation that's set to secure the future of ice hockey on the Ritten. He certainly has talent, and he's already virtually at his best physically for his young age, which means he'll bring the Ritten Buam plenty of joy in the years to come.

Marzolini and Tauferer are – after new signings Jake Crespi and Patrick Madsen – the third and fourth defenders officially signed in Klobenstein. Further signings are expected to be announced shortly.