Raphael Andergassen is leaving HC Pustertal. © I. Foppa / HC Pustertal

After almost 600 matches: Andergassen leaves HC Pustertal

On Monday, HC Falkensteiner Pustertal announced the first contract extensions with numerous key players. Twenty-four hours later, the Wolves officially announced the departure of captain and figurehead Raphael Andergassen.

12 May 2026

From: leo

For the past eleven years, Raphael Andergassen fought on the front lines for HC Pustertal: first as a promising youth player, then as a key performer, and finally as a leader and captain. His time with the Wolves ends after 591 games at his own request.

"It is with a heavy heart that we release you from the black and yellow jersey that you have always worn with such pride and joy. Even though we all hoped that you would reconsider and continue to lead our team onto the ice as captain, it quickly became clear to us that you made this decision, like everything in your career, with 100 percent conviction," the club wrote in a statement on Tuesday morning.

Raphael Andergassen transfers to SV Kaltern. © HC Pustertal / I. Foppa

Andergassen is leaving the club to return to his hometown team, SV Kaltern. The 32-year-old plans to finish his career with the Hechte (Pikes). "All that remains for us is to say thank you and wish you all the best for your final year in the SV Kaltern jersey! Enjoy it, Raphi. Once a Puster Valley player, always a Puster Valley player," commented HCP.

The end of an era

During his time with HC Pustertal, Andergassen was also a cornerstone of the national team, with which he competed in six World Championships. In total, he amassed an impressive 131 appearances for the national team. The Kaltern native last played for the Azzurri in 2022.