The new Bolzano player comes to the provincial capital from HC Merano. © BK Photo

Refresher: Bolzano brings in the next young South Tyrolean

HC Bozen continues its major roster overhaul – and is giving another local youngster a chance. But this also raises questions.

July 10, 2026

From: fop

HCB Südtirol Alperia is strengthening its squad for the new season with Jacob Fox from HC Meran. The 22-year-old from Latsch is moving to the Foxes after four years in the Alps Hockey League and will be eligible to play with a dual license in both the ICE Hockey League and for the farm team from the spa town.

The 1,89-meter-tall and 88-kilogram forward had already impressed at HC Bern's training camp in the summer of 2025. After a strong season with Merano, which only ended in the final against Val Gardena, the next step in his career is now underway. Fuchs collected 17 points in the regular season and another 12 points in the playoffs last season.

"I've been following HCB since my childhood." Jacob Fox

Fuchs himself said after signing his contract: "I have followed HCB since my childhood and it is an honor for me to be able to wear this jersey." His goal is to develop further every day and earn his place in the team.

Jakob Fuchs has made his breakthrough at HC Meran. © BK Photo

Fuchs, from Latsch, spent his youth playing for Vinschger Eisfix and HC Meran. Since his AlpsHL debut in 2022, he has developed steadily and made his breakthrough in 2024/25 with 30 points in 53 games. Now Fuchs gets his first chance to prove himself in the ICE Hockey League.

What happens to Frank and Brunner?

Bolzano's shift towards young, local talent could also claim some prominent victims. Captain Daniel Frank and 24-year-old Pascal Brunner, two long-time HCB forwards, are currently without contracts.

Frank has his intention, wanting to stay in BolzanoAs already confirmed, Brunner had long speculated about a move abroad. Whether both will still find a place in the Foxes' offense next season is uncertain. The roster currently includes 13 forwards, with Fuchs and Nicolò Remolato playing at least part of the time for farm team partner Meran.

The Bolzano squad for the 2026/27 season:

Gate: Marco Costantini (new)

Defense: Enrico Larcher (confirmed), Carmine Buono (new), Teemu Kivihalme (new), Noah Frick (new)

Attack: Brad McClure (confirmed), Cole Schneider (confirmed), Cristiano DiGiacinto (confirmed), Dustin Gazley (confirmed), Matt Bradley (confirmed), Luca Frigo (confirmed), Daniel Mantenuto (confirmed), Bryce Misley (confirmed), Daniel Gellon (new), Isaac Ratcliffe (new), Nicolò Remolato (new), Turner Elson (new), Jakob Fuchs (new)