From September 7, the tough guys will be back in action: the ZSC Lions will kick things off with their game against HC Ambrì-Piotta.
The ice rink is ready for light shows, thrills and last-second decisions. The National League A has always delivered pure spectacle: 12 teams battle for the Swiss championship title in 50 rounds and playoffs, transforming field hockey stadiums into cauldrons. Fans are already eager to see their heroes back in action.
The ZSC Lions' failure in the play-off quarter-finals and SC Bern's title win - last season already had a few surprises in store. But the 2016/2017 season is also full of surprises, with the ZSC Lions' match against the visitors from Ticino, HC Ambrì-Piotta, promising thrills right from the start. Because the sport of ice hockey is always good for a surprise, and often enough ticks according to its own rules.
Tissot Arena as the new venue
Swiss Ice Hockey is facing an eventful season. In particular, the national teams are to be given a boost. The new venue for the 4-nation tournament in December 2016 is the Tissot Arena in Biel. EHC Biel and the city of Biel are looking forward to organizing this international match.
New referee support
From the coming season, referees will have access to new tools and rules. One fundamentally new rule, for example, is the "Coaches Challenge", which the NL clubs have unanimously agreed to introduce. Provided he has not yet taken a timeout, the coach has the right to use video consultation to check whether a goal was preceded by an offside. If this is confirmed, his right to a challenge or a timeout remains, otherwise it is forfeited.
Video review
Thanks to the "Video Goal Judge" function, referees now have the opportunity to review a penalty shot via video. In addition, the referees in all three leagues NL A, NL B and Elite A have a new on-ice communication system. This allows them to support each other better and implement decisions more precisely and quickly. No question: this makes professional field hockey fun.
ICE HOCKEY
www.ticketcorner.ch/eishockey
