Interviews

6. 7. 2024 - Johan Cap

Switzerland´s U18 team shows promise with rising star Jorin Blaser

Switzerland regularly participates in IBSHF World Junior Championships and this year, they certainly aren't pushovers. They managed to stay close against Canada, losing only 4-2, and gave the Czech team a tough time as well. This is a notable surprise, showing significant progress under coach Bastian Steiger and general manager Oliver Schawohl compared to last year's tournament in Liberec. The notion that Swiss ball hockey is stagnating has been disproven. Instead, after a generational change, the team has a lot to offer. One of the standout players is goaltender Jorin Blaser from SHC Bettlach, who has achieved a save percentage of over 80% in four games.

You ended up with one win and four losses in the group stage. What were the last three days like for you?
The first game was not too good, although we won against Great Britain. In the second game against Canada, we played at 100%, with the bench all fired up. Unfortunately, we didn't manage to succeed against Slovakia, the USA, and the Czech Republic.

How do you like the tournament? Where do you rank it in your career so far?
It's fantastic, a great experience. It is nice to play in a big stadium with a lot of fans and to meet players from all over the world.

What do you like about Slovakia?
This is my first time here, but it is very beautiful, including the facilities. The people are friendly.

What do you want to achieve in ball hockey?
I only play ball hockey, so my goals are the highest. I would like to play for the men's national team in the World Championship. That is my main focus.

On Sunday, you have your last game of the tournament against Great Britain. What is the goal for this game?
To play together as a team and, of course, win.

Next articles

Article archive
  • Interviews
  • 7. 7. 2024 - Ján Polák

Noble: Trophy is way better than MVP

  • Interviews
  • 7. 7. 2024 - Lukáš Sidor

Canadian U16 World Champion captain Jordan Flynn

  • Games
  • 7. 7. 2024 - Derek OBrien

Canada wins dramatic U16 final in OT