A picture from days gone by: Colin Furlong in the HC Pustertal jersey. © I. Foppa/Optic Rapid

Old love never rusts: Furlong returns to Bruneck

A week ago, the Ritten Buam announced the departure of goalkeeper Colin Furlong after three years together. Now it's official: The goalie is returning to HC Pustertal.

29 May 2026

From: dl

On Friday afternoon, HC Falkensteiner Pustertal announced the signing of Furlong. The 33-year-old will serve as the backup goaltender for this year's ICE Hockey League finalists, behind the outstanding Eddie Pasquale, who was the league's best goalie last season.

After 149 games, a save percentage of nearly 93 percent, and 13 shutouts, Furlong's time with the Rittner Buam has come to an end. The Canadian-born goalie, who has held an Italian passport for a year, was among the best goalies in the Alps Hockey League for several years. He even made Italy's World Championship roster recently, but his adventure in Switzerland ended with the arrival of Damian Clara. Now, Furlong will have his first opportunity to prove himself in the ICE Hockey League.

Colin Furlong was Ritten's goalkeeper for the last three years. © M. Pattis

For Furlong, who is now in a relationship with a woman from the Puster Valley, it's a return to Bruneck. Between 2018 and 2021, the Canadian gained his first experience in South Tyrol in the town on the Rienz River. Before his stint on the Ritten plateau, Furlong also spent two years guarding the net for HC Gröden. Now he's returning to HC Pustertal, where he has signed a two-year contract.

"I am sure that it will be even better in the Intercable Arena than in the Rienzstadion." Colin Furlong

“The Puster Valley is where it all began for me. I've felt at home here for a long time, which, along with a strong team and the fantastic fans, is the main reason for returning. I'm most looking forward to the atmosphere in the new arena. It was always something special to play in front of the fans at the Rienz Stadium, and I'm sure it will be even better in the Intercable Arena,” said Furlong.