Release from 13.06.2025

Interview with Ritten captain Simon Kostner

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Simon Kostner is entering his twelfth campaign in Klobenstein. In this interview, the captain of the Rittner Buam SkyAlps talks about his contract extension as well as the last and upcoming seasons.

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Simon Kostner is the heart of the Rittner Buam SkyAlps. Although he was born in Val Gardena, it's hard to imagine the Buam without the 34-year-old. With 606 games, he is one of the record players for the Blue and Reds. In these games, he gained 540 points (199 goals). "Wearing the Ritten jersey has a special meaning for me. Since my first season, the people of Ritten have welcomed me with open arms - I immediately felt welcome," said Kostner, who extended his contract and is now entering his twelfth season with the team from Klobenstein. "It wasn't a difficult decision for me. I feel at home at Ritten - not only on the ice, but also off it. Our team is simply a great team. The atmosphere in the locker room is friendly and full of positive energy, which makes the overall package simply great."

Kostner is a good skater with great stickhandling and also impresses with his leadership qualities. Last season, he recorded 60 points (18 goals) in 66 games. Unlike in the many years before - Kostner won the Alps Hockey League twice on the Ritten, became Italian champion five times, won the Italian Cup once and the Supercup three times - "only" the Italian Supercup turned out. In the AHL, the semi-final against Jesenice was the end of the line. "Unfortunately, last season didn't end the way we would have liked because we weren't able to live up to our expectations. We know for sure that we could have done better. Despite everything, we are looking positively to the future: we have learnt a lot from our mistakes and can start the new season stronger."

In order to be able to celebrate major titles again in the upcoming season, the captain is preparing himself in the best possible way during the summer months. "The off-season has changed a bit for me over the years - that probably has something to do with age. In addition to the training routine, I now have to organise my time differently in order to balance work, family and sport," reports Kostner, who has set himself ambitious goals: "We want to be among the front runners again next season - our big goal remains the title, of course. As a team, we're doing everything we can. Individually, I want to continue to do my best and try to be a good role model with my experience. It's about finding the balance between personal success and the success of the team - because in the end, what counts is what we achieve together."

Photo: Max Pattis