HCP's first test match in Bruneck – one question remains open

Following the Vinschgau Cup, HC Falkensteiner Pustertal will play their first preseason games at their home arena, the Intercable Arena. The first of these will take place on Thursday when league rival Olimpija Ljubljana visits Bruneck. However, one question remains to be resolved for the Wolves before the season begins.

August 27, 2026

From: leo

HC Pustertal finished the Vinschgau Cup with a 3-1 victory over HC Litvinov. Jason Jaspers' team aims to build on this success on Thursday against Olimpija Ljubljana (7:45 p.m.). It's a rematch of last season's ICE Hockey League (ICEHL) semifinal, which the black and yellow team won 4-1.

“The preparation went well. The first week in Brixen was great for getting to know all the new players and integrating them into the team,” emphasizes Tommy Purdeller. “I think we performed strongly in the first two matches and have already adapted well to the playing system. The first steps have been taken, and now we are looking forward to coming home to our fans and to the match against Ljubljana.”

Tommy Purdeller is looking forward to the first home game of the season. © HC Pustertal/I. Foppa

Regarding the new players in the team, Purdeller says: "Every single one of them has already integrated well. And even in the first few matches, you could see what great qualities they possess and how much they can help us. The core of the team is top-notch again, and I'm sure we'll be a force to be reckoned with in this league again."

Who will be captain?

With roughly three weeks to go before the ICEHL season opener, the Wolves still have one question to answer: Who will be captain after Raphael Andergassen's departure? Daniel Glira, who served as assistant captain last season, is likely the frontrunner. However, Purdeller and Matthias Mantinger also make strong arguments for leading the team. A decision is expected soon.