The Champions Hockey League held its fifth and final press conference in Stockholm, Sweden yesterday, with participating SHL teams and club representatives present.
Sweden will be represented by five teams in 2022/23 - Rögle Ängelholm, Färjestad Karlstad, Luleå Hockey, Skellefteå AIK and Frölunda Gothenburg.
CHL CEO Martin Baumann presented relevant information to the clubs, including detailed information about prize money, official broadcasting partners, information about the CHL's revised disciplinary system and more.
Baumann also discussed the Group Stage Draw and presented the CHL format leading up to the big Final on 18 February 2023.
He also went on to mention the importance of programs such as the CHL Marketing Award and the new season of the CHL Fan Challenge in attracting new fans and new types of engagement.
After a short promo video, Baumann also presented the CHL's official TikTok channel, the CHL App and Advanced Game Statistics that are available for all CHL games.
Jörgen Lindgren, Champions Hockey League President, also spoke to the clubs before the press conference headed to individual interviews with players and coaches.
Rögle's Anton Bengtsson stated that last year's journey was "really fun" for his club, adding: "Going away with the team, travelling, seeing new places and countries and competing was great."
We won last year and we want to do that againRögle's Anton Bengtsson
Joakim Nygård said his side are "excited to be back in the CHL" and that it is "fun to compete on a European stage, going to different places to play hockey".
Luleå's Oscar Engsund was asked what he's looking forward to most in this season, his response was: “It’s going to be really fun playing some European hockey teams. I can’t wait for this first trip away.”
Skellefteå's Rickard Hugg expects "tough games" in the CHL this season, adding: "There are a lot of good teams playing."
He also went on to say that his side are putting a lot of focus on the CHL: "I'm really excited, we want to win!"
We have to work hard, it’s going to be a fun year!Joakim Nygård
Frölunda's Max Friberg said: “It’s fun to be in the competition, but also very hard. Each game is a challenge.”
”We’ve been working hard all summer and getting ready," he said, “but I’m very excited, It’s going to be really fun.”