Germany’s rich ice hockey tradition features some of Europe’s oldest and most celebrated clubs. Among the top outdoor ice hockey teams are EHC Red Bull Munich, SC Riessersee, and EV Füssen. These teams have cultivated reputations not just within Germany but internationally, due to their strong performances, legendary players, and deep-rooted histories.
EHC Red Bull Munich
Founded in 1998, EHC Red Bull Munich quickly rose to prominence in the Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL), Germany’s top professional ice hockey league. The club is best known for its incredible consistency and competitive spirit. Red Bull’s significant financial backing has allowed the team to acquire world-class players and provide top-tier facilities, making them a formidable force in European hockey.
Prominent Players:
- Konrad Abeltshauser: One of the top German defensemen, known for his strong international presence.
- Yannic Seidenberg: A crucial forward with extensive experience, including Olympic and World Championship appearances.
Red Bull Munich has dominated the DEL, winning consecutive championships from 2016 to 2018. The team also competes regularly in the Champions Hockey League, where it made it to the final in 2019, cementing its place as one of the elite teams in Europe.
Main Achievements:
- DEL Championships: 3 (2016, 2017, 2018)
- Champions Hockey League Runner-up: 2019
SC Riessersee
SC Riessersee was established in 1920 in Garmisch-Partenkirchen and is one of the oldest and most storied hockey clubs in Germany. Known for its connection to outdoor ice hockey, SC Riessersee boasts a rich tradition of success in the German hockey landscape, particularly during the early and mid-20th century.
Prominent Players:
- Josef “Beppi” Gießer: A legendary figure in German ice hockey, contributing to the club’s successes in the 1950s.
- Udo Kiessling: A star player who also had a notable international career and played for the team during its golden years.
The team has won several German Championships, particularly during the 1920s and 1980s. Despite being relegated from the DEL, SC Riessersee continues to play a pivotal role in Germany’s hockey culture, maintaining a passionate fan base and serving as a development ground for young talent.
Main Achievements:
- German Championships: 10 titles (first in 1927, latest in 1981)
- German Cup Victory: 2011
EV Füssen
EV Füssen is another historic club, with roots dating back to 1922. Located in the Bavarian Alps, the club has produced numerous top-tier players and is renowned for being a pioneer in the sport in Germany. Known for their traditional outdoor games, EV Füssen holds a special place in the hearts of German hockey fans.
Prominent Players:
- Markus Egen: A German national ice hockey legend who helped Füssen to numerous victories.
- Lorenz Funk Sr.: An iconic forward, instrumental in EV Füssen’s many successes in the 1960s and 1970s.
Füssen’s golden era was during the 1950s and 1960s when the club secured several German Championships, and it was a dominant force in national and international tournaments. Although the team now plays in lower leagues, its legacy continues to impact German ice hockey.
Main Achievements:
- German Championships: 16 titles (most recent in 1973)
- German Cup Winner: 2000
Root for Legends!
These clubs represent the best of German ice hockey. Each team has its own unique history and contributions to the sport, successes on the ice and profound impact on the growth and popularity of ice hockey in Germany. If you’ve been looking for teams to root for for a while now, look no further than these legendary clubs. Each of their matches is an amazing mix of excitement, passion and will to win.