Release from 16.09.2025

Alessio Niccolai: “My highlight was scoring four goals in one game”

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Alessio Niccolai has been wearing the Wipptal Broncos Weihenstephan jersey since his youth. Over the course of seven Alps Hockey League seasons, the 24-year-old defenseman has already made 265 appearances for his hometown team. Now, Niccolai talks about his personal highlight, the importance of the Alps Hockey League, and the team’s ambitious goals for the upcoming season.

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The Alps Hockey League turns 10 this year. How has the level of play evolved since its early days?
Alessio Niccolai: “In my opinion, the overall level has risen and the playing field has evened out. The league is definitely more competitive than in its first years.”

What has been your personal highlight in the Alps Hockey League so far?
Alessio Niccolai: “My personal highlight was a game against Merano, I think in 2021, where I managed to score four goals in a single game.”

How has the Alps Hockey League shaped Italian hockey, especially when it comes to developing young players?
Alessio Niccolai: “I think creating this league was a key decision. It’s a great competition that young players can look up to and aspire to play in.”

Which rivalries make the league special, and what are your season highlights?
Alessio Niccolai: “We have a lot of South Tyrolean derbies. They’re always special, and the home games in particular are the most exciting for me.”

What expectations do you have going into the anniversary season?
Alessio Niccolai: “Well, obviously we want to win as many games as possible — especially the last one of the season.”

Who will be the anniversary champion, and which underdog might surprise?
Alessio Niccolai: “I think the league will be very tight this year. There are a lot of teams with a real shot at winning it, but of course I hope it’s going to be us.”

Facing Unterland in the opener, what will be key to a strong start into the anniversary season?
Alessio Niccolai: “Starting the season with a win would be huge. We’re giving it our all, also in pre-season, to prepare as best as possible — and then we’ll take it from there.”

All games of the new Alps Hockey League season will be streamed live on www.valcome.tv. To watch all the games of your team during the Regular Season and the Master/Qualification Round, there is a special Team Pass available for only €99.