Straubing especially value that CHL qualification has to be earned with results on the ice over the course of the entire season and Dunham highlights just how excited he is for everyone – “I’m delighted for our fans, our city and the entire region – this is a game changer for our community.”

“The moment our qualification was announced, our fans decorated the entire city with home-made CHL banners overnight. It was amazing. We are planning various things for them including a big CHL party that will be soon!”

Playing in the CHL is about more than just ice hockey, it’s also about connecting European ice hockey clubs, helping them develop, learn from each other and giving European ice hockey fans an amazing experience

“We are delighted to bring international ice hockey to Straubing,” said Dunham, “it makes us incredibly proud.”

“We are looking forward to welcoming many fans to our city and, of course, are hoping that our amazing fans will support us on the road.”

Straubing have already qualified for the CHL in the past – in 2020, when life as we knew it was shattered by COVID-19, the DEL side earned qualification for the 2020/21 season and were set to make their debut on Europe’s biggest stage, but as with most things that year, the season was cancelled, and the Tigers missed out on their hard-earned European journey.

“Not being able to participate in the CHL because of Covid was extremely disappointing, luckily, we have another opportunity this season,” said Dunham, “the last 24 months have been very demanding, not only for us but for everyone, but I believe in togetherness from top to bottom, being organised and that’s exactly what needs to be done to achieve success.”

“Our players and coaching staff have reached their goals through hard work, working smart, and helping each other both on and off the ice. Not to mention the families behind the scenes, without their support this would not be possible.”

The Champions Hockey League brings together the best teams from across Europe and puts different leagues and playing styles up against each other, how will Straubing set up? What will they want to learn?

“First and foremost, comes the respect throughout the CHL. Willingness to help develop European Hockey and take it to the next level. No matter who you are playing, you’re always learning,” answered Dunham, “our biggest obstacle will be trying to be successful in both competitions, the CHL and the DEL, not an easy task.”

For someone first reading about the Straubing Tigers today, how would you like to present yourselves? What are the values of the club? Your playing style?

“Traditions and a family-like togetherness form the basis of Straubing's ice hockey,” replied Dunham, “we value old-school ice hockey, so we have a traditional arena and not a big show hall."

“We have an 80-year history that we want to add to in our own way. Therefore, reaching the CHL qualification is a whole new step for our club. Nevertheless, it’s important to us to stick to our values and our playing style – We want to play aggressive and physical while staying modern.”

The Group Stage Draw will take place on 25 May, is there anyone in particular Straubing would like to face in the first phase of the 2022/23 season?

“Anyone and everyone – we will welcome all competitors with open arms and enjoy the competition against the best in Europe,” concluded Dunham.