The Kärntner Liga AHC Division 1 has launched its season with thrilling matches, including several decided by just one goal. Seven teams will compete in 18 games, with the top two advancing directly to the semifinals. Defending champions Steindorf, along with strong contenders like Spittal and Ferlach, are aiming for victory. Meanwhile, VSV Juniors focus on player development. Exciting upcoming matches include VSV Juniors vs. UECR Huben and Pirates Velden vs. ESC Steindorf.
Exciting Start to the Kärntner Liga AHC Division 1
The Kärntner Liga AHC Division 1 has kicked off with an electrifying series of matches. The recent games have set the stage for a highly competitive season, with each of the first six encounters showcasing nail-biting finishes. Notably, four of these matches ended with a mere one-goal difference, amplifying the excitement for fans and teams alike.
Format and Competition Structure
This season, the league features seven teams vying for the championship title. Each team will compete against one another three times throughout the season, culminating in a total of 18 games. The playoff format will see the top two teams from the preliminary round advance directly to the semifinals, while those ranked third to sixth will battle for the last two playoff spots in a best-of-three series. The semifinals and finals will adopt a best-of-five format. It’s worth noting that the VSV Juniors will not partake in the playoffs this year.
As the competition heats up, the chairman of Huben, Sebastian Warscher, reflects the league’s sentiment, stating, “It feels like everyone has gotten stronger.” Huben has made strategic adjustments by introducing Finnish player Jere Liiberg to the Eisbären and welcoming back Fabio Wibmer from VSV U20. Historically, the East Tyroleans ramp up their efforts later in the season, with their ice preparations currently underway. Coach Silvio Trojer remains optimistic about repeating last year’s semifinal success.
Defending champions Steindorf have also made calculated changes, highlighted by the return of Benjamin Petrik, a former international player who recently completed training as a therapeutic masseur. Chairman Hans-Jürgen Tschernutter is clear about their ambitions: “We are aiming for the final.” Their initial matches have seen a narrow victory against Ferlach followed by a close loss to Spittal.
Spittal emerges as a strong contender this season, having made significant roster changes, including the notable signing of Gasper Glavic from Jesenice. Sports director Martin Bodner expresses excitement about the new coaching duo of Hans Winkler and Thomas Buchbauer and the enhanced depth of the team.
Moreover, ESV Ferlach is also gearing up for a competitive season, with chairman Wolfgang Kopeinig optimistic about their chances for more points after last year’s challenges. Their recent signings, Adis Alagic and Nik Pem, are already making an impact, despite a couple of narrow losses to Steindorf and the VSV Juniors.
The VSV youngsters are focused on developing their skills, intentionally stepping back from playoff contention this season to prioritize player growth. U17 coach Robert Moser emphasizes, “Player development remains the be-all and end-all!” Meanwhile, Althofen’s coach Gerald Ressmann is bolstering his squad with young talent, aiming to engage the audience after securing two victories in their initial matches.
In contrast, Velden’s transfer period has been quite active, with seven new players joining the ranks while an equal number departed. The return of Sebastian Höffernig and the addition of Manuel Feldbaumer have strengthened the team. Chairwoman Gabi Pschernig mentions a deliberate decision to start training later, ensuring players maintain fitness through secondary sports. Velden is emerging as a “dark horse” after a commendable performance against Althofen.
Upcoming Matches to Watch
Mark your calendars for the following exciting matchups:
– **07.11.2024, 20:00** VSV Juniors vs. UECR Huben (Steindorf)
– **09.11.2024, 18:15** 1. EHC Althofen vs. ESV Ferlach (Althofen)
– **09.11.2024, 18:15** Hornets Spittal vs. UECR Huben (Spittal)
– **10.11.2024, 11:00** Pirates Velden vs. ESC Steindorf (Velden)
With the season well underway, the anticipation is building for what promises to be a thrilling competition!