Playoff reinforcement - Nicolò Ugazzi from Winterthur to Visp

Nicolò Ugazzi does not yet have to put away his hockey gear until next fall. Although his EHC Winterthur will not partake in the Swiss League playoffs, the defenseman is being loaned to EHC Visp as reinforcement. This is, as the "Walliser Bote" writes, in part due to the expected departure of Rocco Pezzullo back to his actual club, HC Ambrì-Piotta.

On another note, Stefan Mäder has announced his retirement. "I will be 35 in August, it is the right time", the forward is cited. "Now I am really looking forward to the playoffs against HC Sierre, after which I will end my career."

Mäder grew up as part of the SCL Tigers' youth department and debuted in the National League team during the 2009-10 season. Since then, he has played for Sierre, EHC Basel, HC Ajoie, EHC Olten and now Visp. He currently stands at 796 games in the Swiss League (and 15 in the National League). A new adventure already awaits Mäder, his wife is expecting their first child in spring.