Release from 03.06.2024

Vienna, Innsbruck and Feldkirch sign up North Americans

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The spusu Vienna Capitals, HC TIWAG Innsbruck and the BEMER Pioneers Vorarlberg have all strengthened their rosters with North American players - the team from Feldkirch announced two new additions on Monday. The EC-KAC, on the other hand, extended the contracts of three young talents from its own roster.

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Caps sign Canadian center
The spusu Vienna Capitals have signed 25-year-old Canadian center Jason Willms. Willms, who previously captained the University of New Brunswick to an undefeated Canadian University League championship, signed a one-year contract in Vienna with an option for an additional season. The left-shooter continued his successful streak in the ECHL after the college season with the Toledo Walleye. Willms travels to Vienna with a record of 62 undefeated games across seasons.

Two more Canadians for the Pioneers
The BEMER Pioneers Vorarlberg have added two Canadian players: Joseph Nardi and Ross MacDougall. Nardi, a 27-year-old forward, comes to Vorarlberg with a strong record from the AHL and ECHL. Last season, he scored 50 points in 71 games for the Reading Royals. Ross MacDougall, also 27 years old, strengthens the Pioneers' defense. The defenseman played in the AHL and ECHL after his time at the University of New Brunswick and brings 32 points from 60 games last season to Vorarlberg. Both players are expected to bring more stability and experience to head coach Dylan Stanley's team and are the fourth and fifth Canadians to be signed in Feldkirch.

US forward for the Sharks
HC TIWAG Innsbruck has added Patrick Grasso, a 28-year-old forward from the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL). Grasso, who has played a key role as captain of the Adirondack Thunder in recent seasons, is now moving to Europe for the first time. The right-handed shooter, who also has 18 appearances in the American Hockey League (AHL), is expected to provide new impetus on offense in Innsbruck.

Young trio extends at EC-KAC
The EC-KAC has extended the contracts with three young homegrown players: defenseman Maximilian Preiml (20), Thomas Klassek (19) and goaltender Patrick Müller (18). Preiml and Klassek have already gained experience with the team and will continue to be integrated into the professional system. Preiml made his debut in September 2022 and has recently been regularly involved in training with the professional team. Klassek scored 20 points in the Alps Hockey League and recently made his debut for the Austrian senior national team. Goalkeeper Patrick Müller, who is fully fit again after injuries, will move up to the professional team as the third goalie and continue to keep goal for the U20 team.