Release from 22.05.2026

Transfer Update: Zell am See extend goalie Schmidt | Sjöquist remains head coach in Sterzing

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The transfer market in the Alps Hockey League continues to gain momentum, with several teams focusing on continuity and targeted reinforcements for the 2026/27 season. While the Wipptal Broncos Weihenstephan continue to rely on head coach Johan Sjöquist, goaltender Alexander Schmidt will remain in Zell am See.

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EK Zeller Eisbären
Zell am See have secured a key position between the pipes: Alexander Schmidt has extended his contract through 2027. The goaltender, who joined the team in Pinzgau last summer, impressed immediately with a save percentage of 93.1% in 48 appearances. New to the roster is defenseman Jacob Pfeffer. The 25-year-old brings extensive experience from the win2day ICE Hockey League and is no stranger to Zell am See. He already played six games for the Pinzgau side on loan at the end of the 2023/24 season. Most recently, the left-shot defenseman was under contract with Kitzbühel, having previously spent five years with the Graz 99ers and also earning eight caps for the Austrian national team.

Wipptal Broncos Weihenstephan
The Wipptal Broncos Weihenstephan will continue with head coach Johan Sjöquist, who is set to enter his fourth season in Sterzing. Under his leadership, the Broncos have reached the Alps Hockey League semifinals twice. Patrick Vetter joins the coaching staff as both goaltending coach and assistant coach.

Adler Stadtwerke Kitzbühel
Kitzbühel have extended contracts with two young key players: forward Jakob Engelhart (21) is entering his third season with the Eagles after recording 18 points last season. Goaltender Markus Gratzer (22) also remains with the team, having impressed with eight wins in 13 appearances and a save percentage of 90.6%.

Hafro Cortina Hockey
Cortina have retained one of their top performers, as Oskari Kalajanniska will remain with the club. The Finnish forward is expected to play a key role again next season after finishing sixth in league scoring with 64 points.

KHL Sisak
Sisak are also relying on continuity: captain Ivan Puzic remains with the team and will enter his sixth season wearing the club’s jersey. The defenseman recorded 23 points in 55 games last season.

Hockey Unterland Cavaliers
Continuity is also the theme at Hockey Unterland: homegrown player Laurin Foppa will continue to guard the Cavaliers’ net, while Alex Egger has also extended his contract and remains with the team.

Status: May 21, 2026

Photo: EKZ/Radlwimmer