Previously we met CHL Board member and Sparta Prague chairman Pert Briza, to see what having two teams from the Czech Republic in the last eight of the Champions Hockey League means for the country. Now we continue the series by moving to Switzerland.

by Luke Fisher

Denis Vaucher is the Director of the National League at the Swiss Ice Hockey Federation. We started by asking him what he thinks of the CHL and how it’s developed in the past three seasons.

“From a sporting point of view, we find the concept thoroughly attractive,” said Vaucher. “Both the clubs and the fans really appreciate being able to compare the strengths of their teams with top international sides.”

Last season HC Davos made it through to the Semi-Finals of the CHL before going out to eventual champions Frolunda Gothenburg, but Swiss teams had struggled to make an impact before then. This year, all six got through the group stage and three have made it to the Quarter-Finals.

“Of course we are proud of the performance of the NLA clubs,” says Vaucher. “Their success primarily helps to improve the international reputation of the Swiss league and our ice hockey in general.”

Switzerland has also had success in the CHL attendance-wise, with SC Bern posting some big crowds this year.

“On a European comparison, we are also showing high attendance numbers in the CHL as well,” added Vaucher. “There is the possibility of further increase, but it will depend as well on the opposition and how the clubs offer the tickets.”