Release from 27.06.2025

Pioneers, Innsbruck and Linz present new additions

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While the Pioneers Vorarlberg strengthened their roster with 25-year-old Finnish defenseman Julius Reini, HC TIWAG Innsbruck announced the signing of North American goaltender Matt Vernon. The 27-year-old replaces Mattias Sholl, whom the “Sharks” had originally signed as their new goalie. However, Sholl received a contract offer from his hometown, whereupon Innsbruck agreed to an early termination of his contract. In addition, the Steinbach Black Wings Linz have signed promising future prospects and strengthened their ranks with Tim Geifes, who has already played for Villach.

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Julius Reini is the Pioneers Vorarlberg's first foreign addition for the coming season. The 25-year-old Finn played two seasons in the top Finnish league (Liiga), before that he was on the ice over 160 times in the second league (Mestis).

Innsbruck has to make changes at the goalkeeper position
Mattias Sholl was introduced as HC TIWAG Innsbruck's new starting goalie just a few weeks ago - but the US-American will not be playing for the “Sharks”. The 24-year-old received an offer from a club in his home country at short notice and then approached those responsible at HC TIWAG Innsbruck. The club did not want to put any obstacles in his way and agreed to his wish to terminate his contract early.

In Matt Vernon, however, the “Sharks” have found more than just a replacement: The 27-year-old North American brings plenty of experience from college as well as the East Coast Hockey League. He was also born a talented goalie - his father is none other than hockey hall-of-famer and two-time Stanley Cup winner Mike Vernon (Calgary Flames, Detroit Red Wings, among others). Alongside Vernon, Jakob Brandner and Markus Gratzer make up the Tyrolean goalkeeper trio.

Linz secures future prospects | Tim Geifes strengthens the Upper Austrians
The Steinbach Black Wings Linz are once again strengthening their squad with promising future prospects. With Raffael Aigner, the Upper Austrians have signed a 20-year-old forward to his first professional contract. Christoph Tialler and Martin Reder are also about to take their next steps in the professional squad. Tialler (22), who has been playing for the Linzers for two years, wants to secure a regular place after consistent performances. Goalkeeper Reder will be out until November after shoulder surgery. Until his return, there is open competition for the number three goalkeeper position - under the direction of goalkeeping coach Jürgen Penker. New signing is 22-year-old forward Tim Geifes, who is moving from Kitzbühel to Linz and has already made 25 league appearances for VSV.