Benny Baumgartner

Zell export returns to his origins

In Bern, Baumgartner (center) is set to play with the team in Zell on Saturday.

(Bild: SC Bern/Tom Hiller)

Benjamin Baumgartner learned to play ice hockey in Zell am See.After more than ten years, the Swiss export is returning to Pinzgau ice.A few days ago he returned to his old home.

He was three years old when he first stood on the ice in Zell. "Then it didn't take me that long to play in the U7s," Benjamin Baumgartner remembers his beginnings in ice hockey. The exceptional talent didn't stay in Pinzgau for long after that. In 2011, "Benny" moved on to Vienna and later to Switzerland, where he still plays for Bern today. The passionate golfer has also become an integral part of the national team.

I was really looking forward to returning. I haven't played there since I was 10 years old. It's really cool to be able to play in front of my family and friends

Benjamin Baumgartner

This is exactly what he will be returning to on Saturday (16.15). After more than ten years, he will be back on the ice in Zell. "I was really looking forward to the return. I haven't played there since I was 10 years old. It's really cool to be able to play in front of my family and friends," beams the 23-year-old. He has been in his old home country for a few days now: "I was able to celebrate my birthday here again. It's great to spend a few days at home and enjoy my mom's cooking." He also wants to enjoy the atmosphere in the KE Kelit Arena: "I've heard that the atmosphere at the Eisbären is really good."

Second returnee
Pinzgau fans can welcome a second returnee to the ranks of Team Austria: Henrik Neubauer. The Austro-Swede spent two seasons in the blue and yellows' kit. The 27-year-old drew attention to himself with strong performances and played in Sweden's second division this season. However, he will still have to fight for his place at the World Cup.

M. Grill