Release from 02.03.2017

5 Questions to Luca Zandonella (Sportivi Ghiaccio Cortina Hafro)

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Luca Zandonella, the captain and defender of Sportivi Ghiaccio Cortina Hafro, speaks about the victory in Game 1 of the quarterfinals against the Wolves of the Pustertal at the end of the longest game in the history of the italian ice hockey and the situation of his team.

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So Luca, after the incredible Game 1 of quarter final what can you tell us?
"I'm still recovering energies. More than a game, it was literally a marathon. It is obvious that after a while  the energies were falling down, but in the end we always played with three lines because we were able to manage well the players’ rotations and then there were not too many moments of special teams. I would say that winning like this is better than winning on shutouts. The shootouts are a lottery. On Wednesday we won by scoring one goal more compared to the opponents and it was an incredible feeling of joy after 109 minutes of match."

What can you say now on the quarter final series against the Pustertal?
"Obviously a win like this gave us incredible energy. We are very happy with this result. In a best of five series, the first match is very important. Now we must focus on Game 2. The Wolves could have some important players out of the team but it is always the opponent to beat."

After failing the Master Round, the Cortina won the Round A qualifying playoff sharply and now has won Game 1 of the quarter finals against the Pustertal. Which are the qualities of Cortina in this season?
"When a team wins there is never one reason but it is the sum of various factors. This season we have a united and compact team with a great spirit. The coach Drew Omicioli brings out the best that is in each of us. The four foreigner players are important for our game and in the important moments they do not hold back. The roster has also been enhanced by the arrival of players like Edoardo Caletti, Francesco De Biasio and Patrick Rizzo."

How would you rate Sky Alps Hockey League?
"I can say that is a funny and interesting championship. The level is not very high but the diversity of the opponents and the formula allowed to witness a hard-fought tournament. I would say that we are on track and the level may rise further in the coming years. I believe that the teams which can aspire to the victory are Asiago and Renon. Asiago has a very complete team while the Renon is a very solid team."

Your future?
"It is not always easy to combine sport, work and family. After last year I was going to quit. Then, however, I have played a season that it is very positive. I also solved my back problems. Then I will examine the end of the season but there is the intention to continue."