After the coaching duo, the HCI has now also extended the contracts with Sebastian Benker, Steven Owre and Patrick Kudla.
HC TIWAG Innsbruck-Die Haie is still in the middle of the current season and showed a strong sign of life with the 5-2 win against VSV last Sunday, but preparations for the next season are ongoing at the same time. Today the club can present three important contract extensions. With Sebastian Benker, Steven Owre and Patrick Kudla, three top performers will also play for the Haie in 2026/27.
Sebastian Benker only joined the Sharks shortly before the start of the season after Matt Wilkins, among others, was injured in preparation. The Swede turned out to be a real stroke of luck and has been one of the mainstays of the Haie team in every game since then. The 33-year-old is now Innsbruck’s top scorer and has 28 points after 29 games.
Statement by Sebastian Benker:
“It’s great to be in Innsbruck. I’ve enjoyed it from the first moment. Even though the season has been pretty difficult so far, I still see a lot of potential here. Hopefully we can really give it a go in the rest of the season. I’m firmly convinced that we’ll continue to improve and make the coming season great. To all Haie fans: Your support has been fantastic so far, so keep it up! See you in the shark tank!”
Steven Owre was the Sharks’ king signing this summer, and the Canadian lived up to the semi-final accolades he received as a former league MVP right from the start. Until his serious injury, Owre led the club’s internal scoring list and had 25 points from 23 games.
Statement by Steven Owre:
“I’m incredibly disappointed that my injury ended the season early and I’m incredibly sorry that I won’t be able to fight with my teammates on the ice. Nevertheless, I’m fully focused on my rehab and am really looking forward to continuing to play for the club and coming back stronger next season.”
Patrick Kudla also came to Innsbruck in the summer. Kudla has already been able to show his great skills at times. The 29-year-old is also an important offensive factor in the team. Kudla is the Sharks’ second best assist provider and is in second place in the internal scorer ranking behind Benker and Owre.
Statement by Patrick Kudla:
“I’m really happy about my contract extension. The city and the fans here have really made me feel at home. I don’t think I nor the team have achieved the results we wanted this season. But we will continue to work hard and we still have a lot to do.”
The entire organization of HC TIWAG Innsbruck-Die Haie is pleased to be able to go into the next season with Sebastian, Steven and Patrick.
hcinnsbruck.at , Image: HCI / PAPA Productions
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