After six successes in a row, the EC-KAC’s winning streak came to an end with the 3:4 defeat after a penalty shootout against Olimpija Laibach – but the evening was still a very special one for a young red jacket: David Waschnig, 18 years old, scored his first goal in the ICE Hockey League and thus wrote his personal chapter of success in the red and white jersey.
First league goal for the 18-year-old
With a quick movement behind the goal, Waschnig surprised Laibach goalie Horak and scored coldly through his legs – a moment that the striker will probably never forget: “I already have a goal in the Champions Hockey League. But there is a difference whether you score many kilometers away in Denmark or in the home hall in front of your family,” beamed the youngster in the locker room after the game. The support from the stands provided additional goosebumps: mom, dad, two aunts and an uncle were live in the hall and were able to witness his debut goal.
Strong fourth line performance
The fourth line of the Red Jackets around Daniel Obersteiner also showed a strong performance against the Slovenians. Waschnig’s linemate Johannes Dobrovolny (17) had two good chances – and also prepared his childhood friend’s historic goal. “It’s great that he of all people prepared my first goal – we’ve known each other since we were young,” said Waschnig proudly.
From Köttmannsdorf’s offspring to the ICE premiere
With the debut goal, Köttmannsdorf once again has a player in the top Austrian league after the Ban brothers Christian and Daniel. Waschnig looks back to the “Krone Zeitung” on an early passion for ice hockey: “I was already on the ice when I was three years old because my older brother Lukas was at the KAC.” While brother Lukas is now playing for Kitzbühel in the Alps Hockey League, David already gained play-off experience with the Red Jackets last year – an important development step: “This experience is now benefiting me.”
Compact style and clear role
The striker is known for his compact playing style and disciplined defensive behavior – characteristics that make him a reliable part of the KAC fourth line: “That’s my job! We’re there to relieve the pressure on the top lines.”
School and ice hockey – a double burden
In addition to the ice, the 18-year-old also has another challenge to overcome: graduating from high school. “I’m in my high school year, I learn a lot on bus rides. Luckily I’m in the SSLK school sports model, the teachers there help us a lot,” says the young crack.
Pic: Fradimedia
