The Rittner Buam SkyAlps are strengthening their defense for the upcoming ice hockey season. Both long-time top performer Marco Marzolini and young homegrown talent David Tauferer will continue to be on the ice for the blue-and-red team. These contract extensions signal the continuation of a strategy that relies on a mixture of experience and youthful potential in order to concede as few goals as possible.
Marzolini: The uncompromising veteran in defense
Marco Marzolini, born in Val di Fassa, has been an integral part of the Rittner Buam SkyAlps since the 2019/20 season. With over 300 games for the club, the 28-year-old defender has established himself as an indispensable figure. Despite his comparatively small stature at 1.76 meters and 80 kilograms, Marzolini is known for his uncompromising and fearless style. His ability to put his bones on the line, combined with good technique and game intelligence, makes him a „tough nut to crack“ for opposing attackers. Last season, Marzolini played 66 games and contributed 19 scoring points (two goals) to the team's success.
Sporting directors Dan Tudin and Alexander Eisath were delighted with the contract extension: "Although Marco comes from Fassa, he's already a real Rittner for us. He eats up a lot of minutes in defense and is a weapon in penalty-killing in particular. His behavior is also exemplary, he's a professional through and through."
Tauferer: The promising home-grown talent
In addition to the veteran, Ritten native David Tauferer will also remain with the Buam. The 20-year-old defenseman has made the leap from the youth ranks to the Alps Hockey League team, where he has been a member since the 2023/24 season. At 1.85 meters tall and weighing 78 kilograms, Tauferer played 56 games last season and recorded four assists. He is considered one of the most promising talents to secure the future of ice hockey on the Ritten. His physical maturity for his young age bodes well for the coming years.
Tudin and Eisath see Tauferer's retention as an important step for the club: "David is one of Ritten's youth players and is constantly developing - building on youth is fundamental for Ritten. Like the rest of our youngsters, he will get more and more opportunities and will then have to seize his chance."
With the confirmation of these two defensemen, the club is focusing on stability and development in order to be successful in the upcoming Alps Hockey League season.
