Johan Sjöquist has extended his contract. © Daniel Frusione

Coach stays: Wipptal Broncos opt for continuity

The 2025/26 season has been over for the Wipptal Broncos for about two months now. During this time, the management of the "Wild Horses" has been working hard on the team for the new season in the Alps Hockey League (AlpsHL). Now the first piece of news is ready to be announced.

19 May 2026

From: sn

As the club announced on Tuesday evening, head coach Johan Sjöquist will remain behind the bench next season. This will be the Swedish coach's fourth season with the Wild Horses. However, Patrick Vetter will be joining the coaching staff.

Since Sjöquist took over in 2023, many things have improved for the Broncos, the team writes. The 50-year-old can boast a total of two AlpsHL semifinal appearances and two Serie A semifinals. "Under his leadership, the local players in particular have developed very well. With Johan behind the bench, this trend will continue in the coming season," according to a press release.

A new goalkeeping coach

New to the coaching staff is Patrick Vetter, who will be responsible for the goaltending. The 38-year-old German is no stranger to South Tyrolean ice hockey, having already worked for the Ritten/Renon Buam for two seasons from 2022 to 2024. He also served as an assistant coach for SV Kaltern. For the past two seasons, the former DEL goaltender was under contract with Jegesmedvek in Hungary. Now he returns to South Tyrol.