Michael Ranalter is passionately working his way up the career ladder.

A transfer that caused a stir: From HC Pustertal to Jannik Sinner

HC Pustertal is facing a significant personnel loss – and it's happening off the ice. One of their key employees is leaving the top ice hockey club to become the best tennis player in the world.

September 02, 2026

By: Alexander Foppa / Thomas Debelyak

This time, it's not Canadian ice hockey stars, long-serving Bruneck stalwarts, or up-and-coming talents causing a stir at HC Pustertal. The surprising change is happening behind the scenes: Michael Ranalter will leave the club and will work for Jannik Sinner in the future.

Ranalter is the "Head of Marketing & Sponsoring" at HC Pustertal, according to the official title. However, his responsibilities extend far beyond that. Ranalter is a central point of contact for numerous organizational and bureaucratic matters at the clubhouse and accompanied HCP on its journey from the Alps Hockey League to last season's runner-up finish in the ICE Hockey League.

Just experienced their most successful HCP season together: Michael Ranalter (left) and Jochen Schenk (right). © Max Pattis

As the club's demands grew, so did his responsibilities. Ranalter played a key role in further professionalizing the structures at HCP. "With his expertise and passion, he has made a significant contribution to our development and our successes," says HCP Managing Director Jochen Schenk, expressing his appreciation.

“We are delighted that he has been given this opportunity.” HCP managing director Jochen Schenk

Ranalter learned his craft at the University of Bolzano, and in 2013 he founded the fashion label PNRS. The now 35-year-old from St. Lorenzen actually came into contact with sports through handball. He played 224 games for SSV Brixen in Serie A before ending his career in the summer of 2019 after 13 seasons.

Once a top handball player, now successful in management: Michael Ranalter. © SSV Brixen

Ranalter is now changing sports once again, leaving the ice at the Intercable Arena and moving to the world's largest tennis stadiums. He will be joining the team of Jannik Sinner and his manager, Alex Vittur. His expertise in public relations and marketing is expected to benefit the Sexten tennis superstar. "We are all very pleased that he has been given this unique opportunity," said Schenk. Ranalter's time with HC Pustertal will come to an end at the end of the month.

The Wolves are looking for staff

Meanwhile, HCP is looking for a replacement, as Schenk reveals: “We are looking ahead and are already searching for motivated employees. We are convinced that we will encounter great interest: The opportunity to work so closely and directly in professional sports is not too common in South Tyrol.” The job posting is out, because time is of the essence. HC Pustertal will soon be entering its sixth ICE Hockey League season, this time with a new person pulling the strings behind the scenes.