Release from 24.06.2026

Hannoun joins Milano | Gaffal stays in Linz | Graz99ers add two young Austrian internationals

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HC Milano has strengthened its offense with the signing of Italian international Dante Hannoun. Meanwhile, Stefan Gaffal will remain with the Steinbach Black Wings Linz, while the Moser Medical Graz99ers have added Austrian talents Jonas Dobnig and Maximilian Kirchebner. Goalie Žan Us, who has played for Jesenice in the Alps Hockey League in recent years, is returning to Ljubljana. Defenseman Zétény Hadobás is entering his second season with FTC Budapest

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HC Milano announced the signing of Dante Hannoun for the 2026-27 season. The Italian-Canadian forward returns to the ICE Hockey League after previously spending three seasons with HC Pustertal, where he collected 102 points in 144 appearances. The 27-year-old has also represented Italy at two IIHF World Championships and joins Milano after stints in Slovakia, Denmark and the United Kingdom. Hannoun will wear jersey number 17 for the rossoblù.

Gaffal stays in Linz
The Steinbach Black Wings Linz have extended the contract of Stefan Gaffal for another season. The 29-year-old Linz native is set to enter his 14th season with the club’s senior team.

Gaffal came through the entire Black Wings youth system and made his top-flight debut in 2012. After battling back from a serious injury and a lengthy absence, the forward successfully returned last season and completed the full regular season schedule. In 45 appearances, he recorded six goals and six assists. The homegrown player will therefore remain part of the Linz roster for the upcoming campaign.

Graz99ers add two young Austrian internationals
Meanwhile, the Moser Medical Graz99ers announced the signings of Jonas Dobnig and Maximilian Kirchebner, adding two young Austrian internationals to their squad.

The 22-year-old forward Dobnig gained experience with HC Innsbruck after developing in Austria and spending three years in North America. Defenseman Kirchebner (21) comes from the Red Bull Academy, has already played more than 160 Alps Hockey League games and has also earned appearances for the Austrian national team. With these additions, the Graz99ers continue their commitment to building around young Austrian talent.

Further Transfers and Contract Extensions
Goaltender Žan Us, who has played for Jesenice in the Alps Hockey League in recent years, is returning to Ljubljana. Defenseman Zétény Hadobás is set to enter his second season with FTC Budapest. Meanwhile, Brice Misley has signed a contract extension with HCB Südtirol Alperia.