HC Eppan was eliminated in the quarterfinals. © Jan Marc Zublasing

HC Eppan | The goal was not achieved

While SV Kaltern is still fighting for the title in the Italian Hockey League, their arch-rivals from Eppan had to throw in the towel several weeks ago. SportNews looks back at the Pirates' past season with David Ceresa.

March 30, 2026

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The start of the 2025/26 season was a rollercoaster ride for the Überetsch team. Alongside resounding victories, such as those against Kaltern and Drei Zinnen Dolomites, they suffered repeated setbacks against smaller teams. However, thanks to an improved performance in the second half of the season, HCE ultimately qualified for the Master Round, securing their place in the playoffs shortly after the New Year.

A similar picture emerged in the Master Round. After a disastrous start to the winners' bracket, the South Tyroleans snatched fourth place at the last minute, thus securing home advantage in the quarterfinals. In the quarterfinals, Eppan then faced Pergine. Although the matches in the preliminary and intermediate rounds were quite evenly matched, the Pirates couldn't live up to expectations at the crucial moment and were defeated in four games.

HC Eppan in action against Alleghe © social media / Jan Marc Zublasing

When asked about the team's performance, David Ceresa summarized it as follows: "From a purely sporting perspective, we didn't quite achieve our expectations and unfortunately were eliminated in the quarterfinals." Ceresa added, however, that they were very pleased with the development of the youth players, who had gained valuable experience. When asked why they couldn't overcome Pergine in the quarterfinals, the 36-year-old replied: "Pergine managed to step up their game in the playoffs. This is the main reason for our elimination in the quarterfinals."

Elections are just around the corner.

Regarding the new championship, the former HCE player added that a new board will be elected in the spring and that talks with the players are already well underway.