Release from 13.06.2023

Ljubljana and Pustertal strengthen defense

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The HC Pustertal announced the signing of Canadian Joel Messner. The 29-year-old defender played for HC TIWAG Innsbruck in the 2021/22 season, most recently he was active in Slovakia. In addition, HK SZ Olimpija has strengthened the defense with Will Cullen. The 26-year-old US American comes to the win2day ICE Hockey League from the Belfast Giants.

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After Joel Messner played in the ECHL and AHL from 2018 to 2021, the move to Innsbruck followed. In his first European engagement, the Canadian had no start-up problems and was part of Innsbruck's strong offense. In 49 games, the defender produced eleven goals and 24 assists. After the season was over for the sharks, he reinforced Bad Nauheim in the DEL2. In 2022/23, he joined Slovak Extraliga side Zvolen. Messner reached the final there (together with Shane Hanna and Haie teammate Huntebrinker).

Joel Messner: "I'm really looking forward to coming to Bruneck and meeting everyone. I was already allowed to play with Innsbruck in the new arena and have heard only good things about the club. I can't wait and hope we will play a long season."

Ljubljana signs Will Cullen
HK SZ Olimpija has strengthened its defense with Will Cullen. The U.S. native joins the win2day ICE Hockey League from the Belfast Giants. In his first European season, the 26-year-old won the EIHL title with Belfast, recording 35 points (12G, 23A) in 56 games. In addition, Cullen also played six games in the Champions Hockey League. "It's a great opportunity for me. I want to help the Mannshcaft to win as many games as possible," says the newcomer.