"We are facing a Herculean task."

How excited are you that it's finally starting?

Stefan Mair: The anticipation is immense. It's high time the first puck finally drops. On the other hand, we're obviously facing a Herculean task. It's impressive to encounter such a concentration of highly decorated NHL stars in such a confined space. The Canadians are housed to the left of our locker room, the Americans to our right, and the Germans across from us. It's intimidating when you run into the players in the locker room hallway. They're machines with incredibly strong bodies.

How were the past few days in Milan?

Mair: We prepared meticulously for the first match and settled in well in the Olympic Village. There you meet various exceptional players who are very approachable and have no airs. On the contrary: we were often approached by them, not the other way around. That certainly has something to do with the fact that we're perfectly outfitted. We're certainly not the best, but definitely the best-looking.

<a data-caption="Damian Clara, Diego Kostner, Tommy Purdeller, Torhütertrainer Thomas Tragust, Daniel Glira, Assistenztrainer Stefan Mair, Gianluca Vallini und Alex Trivellato (von links)." data-fancybox="inline-302088" target="_image" href="https://s3-images.sportnews.bz/_images/scale/1280x1280/img/2026/02/damian-clara-diego-kostner-tommy-purdeller-torhuetertrainer-thomas-tragust-daniel-glira-assistenztrainer-stefan-mair-gianluca-vallini-und-alex-tr.jpg"><img alt="Damian Clara, Diego Kostner, Tommy Purdeller, goalkeeper coach Thomas Tragust, Daniel Glira, assistant coach Stefan Mair, Gianluca Vallini and Alex Trivellato (from left)." class="uk-img-preserve" src="https://s3-images.sportnews.bz/_images/scale/1280x850/img/2026/02/damian-clara-diego-kostner-tommy-purdeller-torhuetertrainer-thomas-tragust-daniel-glira-assistenztrainer-stefan-mair-gianluca-vallini-und-alex-tr.jpg"> Damian Clara, Diego Kostner, Tommy Purdeller, goalkeeper coach Thomas Tragust, Daniel Glira, assistant coach Stefan Mair, Gianluca Vallini and Alex Trivellato (from left).

How significant was the adjustment to the smaller ice surface?

Mair: That definitely took some getting used to. Especially at the beginning, it was a bit of a disaster. Over time, we got used to it and adjusted better. You really notice the missing four meters in width. The face-off circle is only half a meter from the boards. And there's very little space behind the net as well. There's very little room and time to get out of the zone. As soon as the puck comes, you have to know what to do.

What is the mood like in the team?

Mair: The atmosphere is excellent. Everyone is happy, even though things are going to get tough. It's also a positive that all the players are fit.

Sweden awaits us on Wednesday for the opening match. What do you know about this opponent?

Mair: I know that all 25 players in the NHL earn their living, and some of them are among the best in the world. They're a tough team that can play very physically. We've analyzed our opponents closely by watching videos, and we know we're in for a challenge. We need to try and survive the first ten minutes.

What is Italy's tactic?

Mair: We'll be playing classic Catenaccio. That means all five players have to stay very close together and as close to the puck as possible. We also have to close down the spaces and block shots. It will be crucial to avoid line change errors and, of course, penalties. On the other hand, we can't be too passive; we need to play with the necessary courage and, once we have the puck, manage it effectively.

Will Damian Clara be chosen as the goalkeeper?

Has the coaching staff already decided on the goalkeeper and the lineup?

Mair: We already have the lineup in mind, but we will only announce it shortly before the start of the game.

What result would you sign up for before the game starts?

Mair: I'm not revealing that, it'll remain my secret. No, seriously. We want the players to give their all and fight until they drop. The result is secondary. After all, we're playing against the best of the best.

Who will win Olympic gold?

Mair: Because the quality and level of play will be so high, and anything can happen in a single game, I wouldn't commit to a single team. On paper, Canada is the strongest. Next come the USA. Sweden definitely shouldn't be underestimated. And Finland isn't bad either. I do think one of these four will ultimately take home the gold.

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"We are facing a Herculean task."

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