Release from 17.09.2026

Ryan Valentini: “I’d like to think I’m in the prime of my career”

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From an individual perspective, one player stood out in particular last season: Ryan Valentini. The league MVP finished the campaign as the Alps Hockey League’s top scorer with an impressive 92 points. Despite his outstanding individual season, the 29-year-old was left disappointed by his team’s quarterfinal exit. In the interview, Valentini reflects on last season, talks about the team’s ambitions for the upcoming campaign and explains why he believes he can continue to improve his game.

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Last season ended with a quarterfinal exit for your team. Looking back, how would you sum up the campaign overall?
Ryan Valentini: “It’s hard to say the season was a really big success when you lose in the quarterfinals, but winning the Italian Championship was obviously big for us. We had new ownership, a lot of new players and a lot of young players. I think we took some big steps in the right direction last year, but like I said, it’s hard to call it a success when you lose in the quarterfinals.”

What are your expectations and goals heading into the new season?
“We just want to keep building on what we had last year. Obviously, we’re playing in the Continental Cup this year, and I think it’s important for us to try to advance to the final weekend. We also want to defend our Italian Championship and go further in the playoffs. I think we have a good enough team to win playoff series and challenge for the Alps Hockey League championship.”

Personally, you had an outstanding season, finishing as the league’s top scorer with 92 points and being named MVP. How difficult will it be to repeat a season like that, or do you feel you haven’t even reached your peak yet?
“I don’t think too much will be different this year. I have really good linemates again, and I think we’re an even better team. For me personally, I’m always trying to get better. I spent the whole summer focusing on how I can improve my game. I’m only 29, so I’m not getting too old yet. I’d like to think I’m in the prime of my career. I’m not really focused on numbers. I just want to contribute as much as I can and help the team be successful.”