René Stutz, just one of many Spengler Cup fans. Photo: pd

René Stutz from Widen near Zurich hasn't missed a single Spengler Cup game in seven years. He says "I like the tournament's peaceful atmosphere."

René Stutz is one of Switzerland's most dedicated hockey fans. Stutz, who is 38 years old, recalls how his enthusiasm for hockey started "It must have been the Spengler Cup TV broadcasts that captivated me so much that I just couldn't get away from hockey anymore." For as long as he can remember he's been a HC Davos fan. For their games he gladly takes the two-hour drive from his home to Davos and back upon himself. He often travels to Davos with other members of the supporters club "HC Davos Fanclub Fricktal", which has 250 members and of which he's been president since it was founded seven years ago.

Combining Spengler Cup and Personal Exercise

For Stutz it's an advantage that the Spengler Cup takes place between Christmas and New Year. "I'm a craftsman and I can easily take holidays then." And he can combine the Spengler Cup week with skiing or ice skating. He also appreciates the fact that fans have more time to get to know other fans and exchange ideas than during a regular league game. "The big tent in front of the Vaillant Arena provides a great place and opportunity to talk about the Spengler Cup games and hockey as such." And between games, René Stutz also enjoys having a meal in one of Davos's many restaurants.

Looking Forward to Seeing the Russians on the Ice

The most special Spengler Cup moments that hockey fan Stutz has experienced so far have been HC Davos's tournament victories and the times the hosts participated in the final. "And seeing so many hockey world stars on the ice at the Spengler Cup during the lockout season 2004 was of course also very special."

René Stutz will also be in Davos for this year's Spengler Cup between December 26 and 31. "I'm looking forward to the tournament's atmosphere and to seeing some interesting games." And although he's particularly curious to see how the Russian teams from St Petersburg and Moscow will perform, there can only be one favourite for him: He says "My Spengler Cup favourite? HC Davos."