Release from 31.10.2024

With Passion and Ambition: How Tommy Purdeller is Taking Over the win2day ICE Hockey League

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At just 20 years old, Tommy Purdeller is making waves in the win2day ICE Hockey League, showing exactly why he’s regarded as one of the league’s rising “Heroes.” The young South Tyrolean, who returned to his home club HC Pustertal after two years in the Canadian junior league OHL, impresses not only with his stats but also with his maturity on the ice and boundless passion. Purdeller feels "right at home" in the win2day ICE Hockey League’s "Home of Heroes," as the young forward shared in an ICE interview.

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In the season’s first 14 games, Purdeller has already scored 11 points, including six goals and five assists – an impressive start for a 20-year-old in his debut year in the league. "I had a good start to the season and quickly adapted to the level, thanks to my coaches and teammates," he explains. Their support has given him the confidence he needs to perform consistently. "I trained hard over the summer and was determined to make a strong start. On the ice, I always try to play with confidence – that has really helped."

The Rising Talent
Fans of HC Pustertal and league observers see Purdeller as an emerging talent, not only at the top of the "Youngster of the Month" list but also as a key hope for the club’s future. And Purdeller himself? He remains humble yet ambitious: "My strength is definitely in creating scoring chances and putting pucks in the net. The physicality in my game also gives me an advantage, especially when it comes to finishing checks and giving 100% every time," he describes. Yet, he knows that moving upward requires steady effort: "I want to improve in every area, especially in the defensive zone. It's essential to be solid at the back and prevent goals."

Tommy Purdeller’s Journey So Far
A look at Purdeller’s journey shows that his talent was recognized early. In 2018, he left home to join the prestigious academy in Salzburg, where he further honed his skills and later proved himself as a reliable goal-scorer in the Alps Hockey League. He gained international attention through his performances at the U18 and U20 Junior World Championships, eventually paving his way to the Canadian junior league. At the Peterborough Petes, he became a key player and capped his time there by winning the OHL title in 2023.

Back Home
Now back in his homeland, Purdeller sees his experience in Canada as a vital part of his success: "The last two years in Canada gave me a lot of experience. Playing on the smaller rink especially helped me make quick decisions," he says. This ability, which he sharpened in the OHL, makes him a valuable team player for HC Pustertal in the win2day ICE Hockey League.

Brother as a Source of Inspiration
In addition to his ambition and talent, family support plays a crucial role for the young player. His brother Michael, who also played for HC Pustertal for several years, is a central source of inspiration: "My brother has always been my role model. He trained with me at home and showed me what to focus on. No matter where I was – in Canada or Salzburg – he was always there for me." This close bond and family support give him strength and motivation.

Team- and Personal Goals
Purdeller has clear goals for the current season: "I want to grow as a player, gain experience, and get better every day. My goal is to reach the playoffs with the team and continue where we left off last season."