Release from 14.09.2025

Tommaso Traversa: “When you lift the trophy, that’s something you never forget.”

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This will be Tommaso Traversa’s ninth season in the Alps Hockey League. The 35-year-old forward currently plays for HC Meran/o Pircher, but he has also played in the AHL for Ritten, Pustertal, and Cortina. He even won the championship with Ritten in 2017. Last season, Traversa played in the win2day ICE Hockey League for Pustertal. Now, he reflects on his time in the AHL, shares his biggest moments, and looks ahead to the upcoming anniversary season.

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The Alps Hockey League turns 10 this year. How has the level of play evolved since its early days?
Tommaso Traversa: “The level has probably changed a little bit because a couple of clubs left. It’s definitely a bit different compared to the first years. I think now there’s more space for young guys to grow in this league. Our team, for example, is very young. Compared to when I first played here, there are definitely more young players on the rosters.

Which players have had the biggest impact on the league over the past nine seasons?
Tommaso Traversa: “That’s hard to say. There are many players who have been in the league for several years. Our coach, for example, Christian Borgatello, played here for a long time. Many veterans have retired, but I’d definitely mention Simon Kostner. He’s still playing and has been part of the league since the beginning.”

What has been your personal highlight in the Alps Hockey League so far?
Tommaso Traversa: “For sure, the years I won with Renon were special highlights. Even the finals I didn’t win, like the one in Brunico, were memorable. I’d say every season is different, but when you reach the end and lift the trophy, that’s something you never forget.”

How has the Alps Hockey League shaped Italian hockey, especially in developing young players?
Tommaso Traversa: “It’s very important. Young players now have the chance to compete at a higher level than juniors, and that’s a huge step for their development. It’s definitely very helpful for them to start at a young age and face strong competition.”

Which rivalries make the league special, and what are your season highlights?
Tommaso Traversa: “For us, every game against Italian teams is special because those games count double – they also decide the Italian Scudetto. Personally, playing against Cortina and Renon, the teams I used to play for, is always a bit more special. But really, every game has something unique.”

With what expectations are you heading into the anniversary season?
Tommaso Traversa: “Our goal is to get better every day, be a tough team to play against, and build a strong group – a real family. Personally, I want to bring my experience into the team and give good advice to the younger players. I’m confident we’ll find the right mix and have a good season.”

Who will be the anniversary champion? And which underdog might surprise?
Tommaso Traversa: “It’s a bit early to say. For sure, as Zell am See mentioned, they’ll try to win it again. They built a strong team, but it’s never easy to repeat. As for underdogs, maybe we’re not really underdogs anymore, but I’m sure a couple of surprises will come this season.”

Facing Cortina in the opener, what will be key for a strong start to the anniversary season?
Tommaso Traversa: “The right mentality. The first game of the season is never easy, especially in front of a big crowd. We just need to be ready, no matter who we’re playing against.”

All games of the new Alps Hockey League season will be streamed live on www.valcome.tv. To watch all the games of your team during the Regular Season and the Master/Qualification Round, there is a special Team Pass available for only €99.

Copyright: BK Photo