Swiss ice hockey has lost a formative figure: Urs Bärtschi, double champion with EHC Biel and long -time international, died at the age of 68. The association confirmed the sad news on Wednesday.
Bärtschi, who took his first steps on the ice at EHC Adelboden, began his professional career at EHC Arosa. Stations at the EHC Kloten and finally at EHC Biel followed – the offensive winged striker celebrated its greatest success in the Seeländer. In 1981 and 1983 he won the Swiss championship title with Biel, and during the second triumph he even led the team as a captain. He was known for his wit, his overview and his unshakable calm in dangerous situations.
Between 1981 and 1986, Bärtschi played 91 international matches for Switzerland. He was one of the generation that fought for the national team with great passion. The promotion to the A group at the B-World Cup in 1986 in Eindhoven, to which it contributed significantly, remains unforgettable.
Even after his active career, Bärtschi remained closely connected to ice hockey. He worked as an assistant coach, head coach and was particularly committed to promoting young talent. He passed on his knowledge and passion to the next generation.
