Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

EV Zug

EV Zug, officially the Zuger Eishockey Verein (EVZ), is a club based in , , that competes in the , the country's top-tier professional league. Founded on May 5, 1967, the club has established itself as a prominent force in Swiss hockey through its emphasis on youth development and competitive success, including three national championships in 1997–98, 2020–21, and 2021–22, as well as a victory in 2019. The club's early history featured rapid ascents through the Swiss leagues, with promotions to the 1. Liga in 1969, National League B in 1974, and National League A (now ) in 1976, though it faced relegations in 1977 and 1982 before stabilizing with another promotion to the top flight in 1987. Playing at the Bossard Arena since 2010, EV Zug has built a modern infrastructure, including the opening of the OYM training hall that year and the launch of The Hockey Academy in 2014 to foster talent development. The team also operates a farm club, EVZ Academy, in the since 2016, and has expanded into women's with the EVZ Women & Girls Program starting in 2023, achieving promotion to the PostFinance Women's League and an EWHL Eurocup title in 2024, and the in 2025. On the international stage, EV Zug has participated in the Champions Hockey League for multiple seasons, reaching the semi-finals in 2022–23 and the quarter-finals in 2019–20. Notably, the club's 2021–22 championship campaign made Swiss hockey history as the first team to overcome a 0–3 deficit in a playoff final series, defeating the to secure back-to-back titles. With a focus on and , EVZ remains Central Switzerland's largest organization, drawing strong local support and contributing to the sport's growth in the region.

Club Overview

Identity and Governance

EV Zug, known commonly as EVZ, was established in 1967 through the transformation of the Baarer Schlittschuhclub, which had been founded in as a merger of local skating clubs in , . This restructuring marked the formal creation of the Eissportverein Zug, enabling organized activities with the opening of an artificial in the city. The club's identity is embodied in its traditional colors of white, blue, and black, which feature prominently on its jerseys and logos, reflecting the regional heritage of . EVZ's nickname, "EVZ," serves as a shorthand in , while fans are affectionately referred to as "Zugers." The team's , Kolin, a character introduced in 2025, symbolizes the club's energetic and community-oriented spirit. EV Zug competes in the Swiss National League (NL), Switzerland's premier professional ice hockey league, since its promotion in 1987, achieving full professional status within the top tier of Swiss hockey. The club maintains its professional operations under the oversight of the Swiss Ice Hockey Federation (SIHF), the national governing body that regulates league standards and international participation. EV Zug is owned and operated as a Swiss Aktiengesellschaft (AG), or stock corporation, with EVZ Holding AG serving as the parent entity since its establishment in 1998, overseeing subsidiaries focused on sports operations, youth development, and management. Key affiliations include the EVZ Academy, the club's farm team in the Swiss League, and The Hockey Academy, a youth development program that integrates hockey training with education, fostering talent for the senior team and regional partners. As the largest ice hockey club in central Switzerland, EV Zug plays a central community role, supported by a dedicated fan base with an average home attendance of approximately 7,365 spectators per game during the 2024-25 season.

Home Arena and Facilities

The OYM Hall, formerly known as the Bossard Arena, serves as the home venue for EV Zug in Zug, . Opened in 2010, it replaced the older Eishalle Herti and was designed as a modern, multi-purpose facility with a current capacity of 7,700 spectators, including 5,200 seated and 2,500 standing places. The arena holds the highest Minergie energy certification in , featuring advanced energy-efficient systems such as optimized heating, ventilation, and lighting, making it a model for sustainable sports venues across . Key features include a standard IIHF ice rink measuring 60 meters by 30 meters, surrounded by a contemporary design that supports both high-level and diverse events like concerts, galas, meetings, congresses, corporate gatherings, and exhibitions. The facility's multi-purpose layout allows seamless transitions between configurations, enhancing its versatility beyond EV Zug's matches. Since its opening, the arena has undergone several renovations and expansions to improve capacity and fan experience. In 2017, the seating was extended from 7,015 to 7,200 places, followed by a 2024 upgrade that added approximately 600 new seats—bringing the total to 7,700—along with exclusive rink-side seating for an immersive viewing experience directly at the ice edge. Ongoing construction, which began in mid-2025, focuses on a south-side extension, roof elevation, and a new terrace for gatherings, aiming to increase capacity to 9,000 by 2027 while minimizing disruptions to the 2025-2026 season schedule. Training facilities are integrated with the EVZ Academy, EV Zug's development program, through the adjacent Academy Arena, which serves as the primary training rink for the club's affiliate teams and youth squads, occasionally sharing the main arena for games. Economically, the arena's were held by the Bossard Group from 2010 to July 2025, with proceeds directed toward maintenance, technical upgrades, and expansions to support long-term operations. In 2025, the rights transitioned to local entrepreneur Hans-Peter Strebel, rebranding it as the OYM Hall and providing key financing for the current expansion project. Its role in hosting non-sporting events contributes to local by drawing visitors to for cultural and entertainment activities.

History

Origins and Formation

The origins of EV Zug trace back to the Baarer Schlittschuhclub, a skating club founded in December 1953 in the nearby town of Baar by a group of local pioneers including Hans Schumpf, Hans-Peter Gasser, Peter Bieler, and Richard Baltensberger. This precursor organization focused initially on and but soon incorporated activities, operating as an amateur outfit in regional competitions. Early practices and games were constrained by the lack of dedicated facilities, with the club relying on natural ice at the Lättich-Weiher pond during the harsh winters of the mid-1950s, often under sub-zero temperatures that limited training opportunities. By the mid-1960s, growing interest in in the prompted discussions about relocation and rebranding to better align with the sport's rising popularity. On May 5, 1967, the Baarer Schlittschuhclub officially transformed into the Eissportverein Zug (EVZ), marking the formal founding of the club at a meeting held at the Hotel Lindenhof in Baar. This shift coincided with the construction of Switzerland's first artificial in , the Herti Eishalle, which opened on November 25, 1967, to an audience of over 5,000 spectators and provided the infrastructure necessary for more consistent play. The move to reflected early aspirations toward greater professionalism, though the club remained fully amateur, supported by local volunteers and limited sponsorships. EV Zug entered competitive play in the Swiss 2. Liga for the 1967-68 season, with Jürg Bosshard serving as the inaugural to guide the team. The first official game occurred in November 1967, resulting in a 4-7 loss away to EHC St. Gallen, followed by the home debut on December 2, 1967, a 9-6 victory over EHC Bassersdorf attended by 1,000 fans. Initial challenges included adapting to the new venue and building a competitive roster from local talent, but the club achieved steady progress, earning promotion to the 1. Liga in 1969 and further ascending to the Nationalliga B—the national second division—by 1974. These early steps laid the foundation for EV Zug's integration into Switzerland's structured hockey pyramid, despite ongoing resource limitations typical of regional amateur clubs during the era.

Early Development

Following a period of establishment in lower divisions, EV Zug experienced significant league progression in the , achieving promotion to the National League B (NLB) in 1974 after defeating and Uzwil in the promotion playoffs. The club then advanced to the top-tier Nationalliga A (NLA) in 1976 with a decisive 7-6 victory over SC Zurich, marking their first entry into Switzerland's premier professional league. However, relegation followed swiftly in the 1976-77 season, leading to a return to the NLB, and further challenges culminated in demotion to the 1. Liga in 1982. Under Czech coach Frantisek Dum, EV Zug secured immediate promotion back to the NLB in the 1982-83 season and, after consistent performance, earned promotion to the NLA again on March 14, 1987, with a record crowd of 8,052 fans witnessing the decisive game. This ascent established the club in the elite division starting from the 1987-88 season, where they maintained competitive stability through the 1990s with regular mid-table finishes, avoiding further relegation threats. A standout campaign came in 1996-97, when EV Zug finished second in the regular season and advanced to the playoff final, ultimately falling to to secure runners-up honors. Financial pressures tested the club's resilience, particularly in the 1980-81 season, when near-bankruptcy loomed due to mounting debts, only averted through the intervention of club president Georg Keiser, a prominent local . Recovery efforts in the mid-1980s stabilized operations, enabling the sustained NLA presence that followed. Infrastructure developments supported this growth, including the roofing of the Herti Stadium in 1976, which increased capacity to 8,350 and improved year-round usability. Prior to the modern era, the club relied on this aging facility and occasional temporary setups during renovations, while the youth program expanded notably in the late and , fielding ten junior teams by the 1976-77 season to build a domestic talent pipeline. Notable events included the integration of foreign talent under Swiss import regulations, exemplified by the signing of Czech star in 1983, who scored 45 goals in his debut season and elevated the team's offensive capabilities. This era also saw early international exposure through exhibition matches and European competitions, fostering the club's growing reputation. EV Zug's momentum carried into the 1997-98 season, culminating in their first .

Modern Successes

In the early 2000s, EV Zug encountered persistent challenges, including relegation threats that necessitated participation in promotion-relegation playoffs during the 1999–2000 and 2000–2001 seasons to maintain their status in Switzerland's top-tier . These struggles highlighted a period of instability following their breakthrough 1997–98 championship, the club's first national title after decades of mid-table finishes and earlier relegations in the . The provided a temporary uplift, as the influx of high-caliber North American players into European leagues, including Switzerland's NLA, elevated overall competition and allowed teams like EV Zug to integrate seasoned talent for improved performances. EV Zug's resurgence culminated in the 2020–21 season, where they dominated the COVID-19-shortened campaign with a league-record 119 points from 52 games, finishing 27 points ahead of second place under coach Dan Tangnes, who had joined in 2018. In the playoffs, they swept Genève-Servette HC 3–0 in the final, with goaltender Leonardo Genoni securing his sixth title and forward Jan Kovar leading in scoring. This victory ended a 23-year championship drought since 1998 and marked the first title for any Swiss club outside the traditional powerhouses of SC Bern, HC Davos, HC Lugano, and ZSC Lions in that span. Building on this momentum, EV Zug achieved back-to-back titles in 2021–22 by staging a historic comeback in the final against ZSC Lions, overcoming a 0–3 series deficit—the first such reversal in Swiss hockey history—to win in seven games. Key moments included Dario Simion's hat trick in Game 5 and Genoni's 27 saves in the decisive Game 7, clinching Zug's third national championship overall. Post-2010 strategic investments transformed EV Zug into a more sustainable contender, including the establishment of the Hockey Academy in 2014 for elite youth development and an NLB farm team in 2016 to bolster scouting and player pipelines. These initiatives emphasized homegrown talent, contributing to the youngest roster in the league during their 2021 championship run. Internationally, EV Zug expanded its profile through the Champions Hockey League, qualifying as National League runners-up and advancing from the 2018–19 group stage with strong performances against European rivals. In recent seasons, the club has maintained playoff contention amid post-COVID adaptations like condensed schedules and enhanced health protocols, reaching the semifinals in 2023–24 before falling to ZSC Lions and advancing to the quarterfinals in 2024–25, where they were eliminated by HC Davos.

Administration and Staff

Management Structure

EV Zug operates as an (AG), a , through its EVZ Holding AG, established in 1998, which oversees multiple subsidiaries responsible for sports operations, youth development, , and facilities management. The of EVZ Holding AG, chaired by Dr. Hans-Peter Strebel, includes directors Adrian Risi, Andreas Bachmann, Dr. med. Matthias Strebel, Amin Ghiasi, and Christoph Frey, who provide financial oversight and strategic direction for the group's operations. The executive management is led by CEO Patrick Lengwiler, who serves as a delegate on several subsidiary boards and coordinates overall club strategy. Reto Kläy holds the position of and Head of Sports, a member of the management board, overseeing player contracts, team budgeting, and scouting integration across the organization as of 2025. Youth development falls under EVZ Nachwuchs AG and The Hockey Academy AG, both chaired by Dr. Hans-Peter Strebel with Patrick Lengwiler as delegate; these entities manage training for over 300 young players aged 5-19 and integrate scouting with the senior team through the leadership of Roland Schmid, Head of The Hockey Academy and Assistant . Operational departments are headed by specialized leads within the management board: Ibrahim Can as Head of , responsible for sponsorships and fan engagement; Myriam Stierli as Head of , managing fiscal operations; Karsten Huhnke as Head of for venue services; and Olivier Huber as Head of Infrastructure for facility maintenance, with community outreach initiatives coordinated through the Eissportverein Zug's board focused on fan and youth programs.

Coaching and Support Staff

The coaching staff of EV Zug underwent a significant transition following the 2024-25 season, with long-time Dan Tangnes departing after leading the team to multiple playoff appearances. Michael Liniger, a 45-year-old native and former professional player, was promoted to for the 2025-26 campaign, signing a contract through 2027. Liniger had served as an assistant coach with EV Zug since 2023, contributing to the team's strategic development during that period, and previously assisted the national team staff under . His earlier experience includes a five-year stint as of the GCK Lions in the from 2017 to 2022, where he guided the team to promotion playoffs and built a reputation for tactical discipline. Supporting Liniger are two assistant coaches with international pedigrees. Tomas Montén, a Swedish coach born in 1977, joined EV Zug in June 2024 on a two-year deal, bringing expertise from his time as of Sweden's men's national junior team, where he led the squad to multiple World Junior Championships. Prior to EV Zug, Montén worked with SHL clubs and , focusing on player development and defensive structures. Roger Hansson, another Swede aged 57, returned to the organization in April 2025 after a two-year contract extension through 2027. Hansson previously assisted with EV Zug from 2019 to 2022, contributing to their 2021 championship, and most recently coached at in and Düsseldorfer EG in , emphasizing offensive transitions and special teams. Together, the assistants handle specialized areas such as defense and , aligning with Liniger's vision for balanced gameplay. The support staff provides essential on-ice and behind-the-scenes expertise. Simon Pfister, the goaltending coach since 2017, oversees netminder training and technique refinement, drawing from his background as a former professional with clubs like . Equipment management is led by Walter Vattolo, who has been head of equipment since at least 2018 and ensures seamless logistical support for practices and games. The medical and conditioning team, critical for player health and performance, includes team doctors Beat Schwegler and Thomas Langenegger, medical consultant Andreas Rindlisbacher, head physiotherapist Rob Hoiting, and physiotherapist Kevin Oenken, who manage , , and fitness protocols throughout the season.

Achievements and Honours

National Championships

EV Zug has secured three Swiss (NL) championships, establishing itself as one of the league's elite clubs despite a history punctuated by both triumphs and near-misses in the . The team's success in the has been shaped by the league's best-of-seven format for quarterfinals, semifinals, and finals, introduced in the modern era to heighten competition and reward endurance—a structure that has been in place since the league's reorganization in the early with 12 teams and eight playoff qualifiers. This format has allowed for memorable series, where EV Zug has demonstrated defensive prowess and offensive firepower, such as limiting opponents to low goal totals in decisive stretches. The club's inaugural national title arrived in the 1997–98 season, marking EV Zug's breakthrough after years of building in the top division; they defeated in the final series to claim the championship. This victory ended a long wait for silverware and solidified Zug's status as a contender. After a 23-year gap, EV Zug captured its second title in the 2020–21 season amid a pandemic-shortened campaign, sweeping 3–0 in the final with a dominant 12–4 aggregate scoreline that highlighted their balanced attack and goaltending. The series concluded with a 5–1 road win on May 7, 2021, as Zug outshot and outworked their opponents in all three games. Defending their crown in 2021–22, EV Zug scripted hockey history by overcoming a 0–3 deficit against in the final, winning the series 4–3—the first such comeback in league playoff annals. Zug blanked the in Games 5 and 7 while allowing just three goals across the final four contests (14–3 aggregate in those games), showcasing unparalleled resilience under coach Dan Tangnes. The decisive Game 7 victory came 3–1 on May 1, 2022, in . EV Zug has appeared in the NL final four other times as runners-up, often falling to powerhouse teams in tight series that underscored the league's parity. In 1995, they lost to in the championship round, finishing as the first-place regular-season team but unable to convert momentum. The 1996–97 final saw Zug defeated by after a strong regular-season runner-up finish, with Bern's experience prevailing in the best-of-seven clash. More recently, Zug lost the 2017 and 2019 finals to (4–1 and 4–2 series, respectively), with the 2019 defeat coming after a semifinal upset of HC. No further final appearances occurred as of the conclusion of the 2024–25 season.
SeasonResultOpponentSeries OutcomeKey Notes
1994–95Runner-upLost 2–4Regular-season leaders; strong offensive output but defensive lapses in final games.
1996–97Runner-upLost 3–4Finished 2nd in regular season; Bern's home-ice advantage proved decisive.
1997–98ChampionsWon 4–2First title; breakthrough after promotion-era build-up.
2016–17Runner-upLost 1–4Overtime drama in Game 1; Bern dominated later.
2018–19Runner-upLost 2–4Semifinal revenge over Lausanne; 12 goals scored in final.
2019–20No final (season shortened)N/AN/A1st in regular season (90 points); playoffs cancelled due to COVID-19.
2020–21ChampionsGenève-Servette HCWon 3–0Sweep with 12–4 goals; fewest games to title.
2021–22ChampionsZSC LionsWon 4–3Historic 0–3 comeback; 3 goals allowed in final 4 games.

Other Domestic Trophies

EV Zug achieved its first and only title during the 2018–19 season, defeating SC Rapperswil-Jona Lakers 5–1 in the final match held in Rapperswil on February 3, 2019. This knockout competition, organized by the Swiss Ice Hockey Federation and open to clubs from all Swiss leagues, represented a significant domestic achievement for the club, complementing their successes by testing squad depth amid a packed schedule. The Swiss Cup's format integrated seamlessly with the regular league calendar, with early rounds featuring matches against lower-division opponents to build momentum, while later stages often coincided with mid-season breaks to minimize fixture congestion. EV Zug's path to the 2019 final included victories over teams from various tiers, showcasing their dominance in a tournament that emphasized single-elimination intensity. The club made additional appearances in subsequent editions, reaching the eighth-finals in the 2019–20 season before a 3–2 loss to ended their run after three games. Overall, EV Zug's record in the stands at one final appearance and victory, with no runner-up finishes in the men's competition. Although initially announced for discontinuation after the 2020–21 season by the Swiss Ice Hockey Federation in August 2020 to refocus resources on league play, the tournament continued annually; the 2025–26 edition is scheduled to be the last.

Team Personnel

Current Roster

The EV Zug roster for the 2025-26 National League season consists of 15 forwards, 11 defensemen, and 2 goaltenders, totaling 28 active players as of November 2025. This composition adheres to league import quotas, with seven foreign players (from , , , and ) and several youth call-ups integrated from the club's development system. The team emphasizes a blend of veteran leadership, NHL-experienced talent, and emerging prospects under head coach Dan Tangnes' system.

Goaltenders

Leonardo Genoni, the 38-year-old Swiss veteran and longtime starter, anchors the net with a contract through 2027; he posted a 2.24 GAA and .923 SV% in 41 games during the 2024-25 season. Tim Wolf, 33, serves as backup on a one-year deal ending in 2026, appearing in 26 games last season with a 2.68 GAA.

Defensemen

The defensive corps features a mix of mobility and physicality, led by Swiss blueliner Tobias Geisser, 26, who brings NHL experience from 14 games with the in 2021-22 and signed a long-term deal through 2029; he recorded 17 points in 44 games in 2024-25. Other notables include import Lukas Bengtsson, 31, with a to 2027 and 24 points in 40 games last season, and defenseman David Sklenička, 29, through 2028. Youth call-ups like 19-year-old Mischa Geisser ( to 2027) and 20-year-old Nic Balestra (to 2027) add depth, alongside veterans Raphael Diaz (39, to 2026) and Dominik Schlumpf (34, to 2026). The full group is rounded out by Livio Stadler (27, to 2028), Elia Riva (27, to 2028), Canadian short-term signee Jesse Graham (31), Samuel Guerra (32, on loan from ).
#PlayerAgeNationalityContract End2024-25 Points (GP)
6Mischa Geisser192027N/A (youth)
14Livio Stadler27202812 (45)
16Raphael Diaz39202615 (42)
18Dominik Schlumpf3420268 (46)
32Lukas Bengtsson31202724 (40)
37Elia Riva27202810 (44)
42Tobias Geisser26202917 (44)
64Jesse Graham31CANShort-termN/A (new)
66David Sklenička29CZE202814 (43)
93Samuel Guerra32Loan5 (28)
94Nic Balestra202027N/A (youth)

Forwards

Captain Jan Kovář, 35, a Czech center with a contract through 2027, leads the forwards after tallying 36 points in 48 games in 2024-25. Key wingers include fellow Dominik Kubalík, 30 (to 2027), who joined mid-2024-25 and contributed offensively, and Swiss scorer Lino Martschini, 32 (to 2027), the team's leading point-producer with 44 points in 47 games last season. Slovak veteran , 34 (to 2027), adds NHL pedigree from over 700 games. Other prominent forwards are Gregory Hofmann (33, to 2028, 33 points in 43 GP), Fabrice Herzog (30, to 2026), Mike Künzle (31, to 2026), Sven Senteler (33, to 2028), and Swedish winger Andreas Wingerli (28, to 2027). Youth integrations include 19-year-olds Loris Wey and Robin Antenen (both to 2027), plus 20-year-old Colin Lindemann (to 2026), alongside Nando Eggenberger (25, to 2026), Sven Leuenberger (26, to 2028), and recent addition Daniel Voženílek (29, to 2026, 35 points in 48 GP).
#PlayerAgeNationalityPositionContract End2024-25 Points (GP)
15Gregory Hofmann33SUIRW202833 (43)
22Nando Eggenberger25SUILW202622 (46)
40Andreas Wingerli28SWELW202718 (42)
43Jan Kovář (C)35CZEC202736 (48)
46Lino Martschini32SUIRW202744 (47)
61Sven Leuenberger26SUIC202825 (45)
68Fabrice Herzog30SUIRW202628 (47)
73Mike Künzle31SUILW202620 (44)
77Loris Wey19SUIC2027N/A (youth)
8130CZELW202715 (22)*
86Robin Antenen19SUIRW2027N/A (youth)
88Sven Senteler33SUIC202824 (46)
9034SVKLW2027N/A (new)
95Colin Lindemann20SUIC2026N/A (youth)
96Daniel Voženílek29CZELW202635 (48)
*Partial season after mid-season acquisition.

Notable Former Players

EV Zug has been a notable destination for several National Hockey League (NHL) players during lockouts, off-seasons, or career transitions, contributing their experience to the team's competitiveness in the Swiss National League. Swedish forward Henrik Zetterberg, a Stanley Cup champion with the Detroit Red Wings, joined EV Zug during the 2012-13 NHL lockout, playing 23 games and recording 16 goals and 16 assists while helping the team reach the league playoffs. Similarly, fellow Swede Viktor Stålberg, who had tallied over 100 points in the NHL with teams like the Chicago Blackhawks and New York Rangers, signed a two-year contract with EV Zug in 2017, where he led the team in scoring during the 2017-18 season with 54 points in 44 games before winning the Swiss championship in 2018. Canadian veterans also bolstered EV Zug's roster in their later years. , a four-time winner known for his physical play with the and , signed with EV Zug in February 2004 following his NHL tenure, appearing in 12 games and adding 5 points during a brief stint that marked the end of his playing career. , a skilled playmaker who spent nine seasons with the , joined EV Zug in 2014 and played two full seasons, amassing 78 points in 82 games and earning the Top Scorer award in 2015-16 with 57 points. , a gritty center with over 1,000 NHL games across multiple teams including the , concluded his 20-year professional career with EV Zug in 2007-08, contributing 28 points in 44 games as a veteran leader. Swiss players have formed the backbone of EV Zug's long-term success, with several becoming club legends. Defenseman Thomas Künzi, a four-time Swiss champion across clubs, joined EV Zug in 1992 after winning three titles with SC Bern and played until 1999, anchoring the blue line during the team's 1998 championship victory and logging over 300 games while earning induction into the EV Zug Wall of Fame for his defensive reliability and leadership. Canadian forward Josh Holden arrived in 2008 and became a cornerstone over a decade, playing 491 games—the third-most in club history—and scoring 136 goals, serving as captain during multiple playoff runs including the 2012 Spengler Cup win before transitioning to coaching with the team in 2018; he was later honored on the Wall of Fame for his tenure. EV Zug's historical scoring records highlight the impact of these alumni, with Künzi ranking among the club's top defensemen in points per game during his era, while players like contributed to the team's all-time totals, where winger Heinz Jenni holds the record with 245 goals in 562 games. The club's Wall of Fame, established to recognize contributors since , includes inductees such as Künzi and , underscoring their roles in building EV Zug's identity as a powerhouse.

EV Zug Women

Team Overview

The EV Zug women's team, officially known as the EVZ Women's Team, represents the women's section of the renowned club EV Zug, founded in 1967. Established in the as EV Zug Damen, the team initially competed at a high level within women's before a period of restructuring; the current iteration was relaunched in November 2022 to revitalize and professionalize women's programs under the EVZ umbrella. Operating as a semi-professional outfit, it benefits from the club's infrastructure and focus on gender equity in the sport. The team currently competes in the PostFinance Women's League (SWHL A), Switzerland's premier women's division, having earned promotion from the second-tier SWHL B after the 2023-24 season. Home games are hosted at the OYM Hall (formerly Bossard Arena) in , a modern facility shared with the men's team that accommodates up to 7,450 spectators as of the 2025–26 season. This shared venue underscores the integrated organizational ties between the women's and men's programs. Structurally, the EVZ Women's Team is affiliated with the club's academy system, drawing on youth development pathways to build talent. The roster typically features 20-25 players, with a core of athletes supplemented by a handful of international imports to enhance competitiveness and experience. Over its , the team has experienced several promotions across Swiss leagues, reflecting steady progression amid evolving league formats. EV Zug prioritizes community-driven growth for women's , investing in initiatives to establish girls' teams across all age groups by 2030 and promote broader participation in .

Achievements and Current Status

The EV Zug women's team, known as the EVZ Women's Team, has a history of success in women's hockey, particularly in the early 2000s and more recently following their return to elite competition. The team secured four national championships in the Leistungsklasse A (LKA), the predecessor to the modern Women's Hockey League (SWHL), winning titles in the 1997–98, 1998–99, 2003–04, and 2004–05 seasons. These victories established EV Zug as a dominant force during that era, with back-to-back championships in the late 1990s and again in the mid-2000s, contributing to the growth of women's in . After a period of lower-division play, the team rebuilt its presence, clinching the SWHL B championship in the 2023–24 season, which earned promotion to the top-tier PostFinance Women's League (SWHL A). In their debut SWHL A campaign during 2024–25, EV Zug finished second in the regular season with a record of 21 wins, 6 losses, 114 goals for, and 47 goals against, advancing to the playoff final but ultimately falling short as runners-up. That season also marked significant cup successes, including victory in the EWHL Euro Cup in October 2024 and the Swiss National Cup in January 2025, securing their second title of the year and highlighting their rapid ascent post-promotion. As of November 2025, in the ongoing 2025–26 SWHL A season, EV Zug leads the league standings after 15 games with 14 wins, 1 loss, 86 goals for, and 19 goals against, positioning them as frontrunners for their first SWHL A championship. The team's strong performance underscores their investment in women's hockey, including a substantial budget and integration with the club's broader infrastructure, fostering continued development and competitiveness in women's leagues.

References

  1. [1]
    EV Zug - Champions Hockey League
    They won the NL championship for the first time in 1997/98 and then again, this time back-to-back, in 2020/21 and 2021/22. Zug have a promising talent pool with ...
  2. [2]
    History - 1967 to Present | EVZ
    The EVZ - Central Switzerland's biggest ice hockey club. Sustainable youth development and top performance in the highest Swiss ice hockey league.
  3. [3]
    Milestones - History - EVZ
    The EVZ wins the Swiss Cup for the first time in the club's history. In Rapperswil, Zug wins 5:1. Runner-up after a final defeat against Bern. The youngest NLA ...
  4. [4]
    Zug writes Swiss history - IIHF
    May 4, 2022 · EV Zug defended its title in Switzerland in historic fashion. As first team in history the team managed to come back from being 0-3 behind in a final series.
  5. [5]
    Historie - EVZ
    Formation of EVZ and Opening of the Artificial Ice Rink. The Baarer Schlittschuhclub, founded in 1953, transforms into the Eissportverein Zug, shortly EVZ.
  6. [6]
    EV Zug - Roster, News, Stats & more - Elite Prospects
    ... League ... KHL: 761 GP; Czechia flag Czechia: 852 GP; AHL flag AHL: 842 GP; DEL flag DEL: 52 GP; NL flag NL: 8 527 GP. Affiliated Team(s). EV Zug U21 (Swiss U21- ...
  7. [7]
    Kolin - EV Zug
    Kolin, the adventurous bull from Zug, has found his dream job—as the official mascot of EVZ. How a runaway bull became a real ice hockey star is a story ...Missing: colors nickname
  8. [8]
    Corporate-Structure - EVZ
    The EVZ Holding AG is the parent company and holds stakes in all EVZ enterprises. Function, Name, First Name. Chairman, Dr. Strebel, Hans-Peter. Board of ...Missing: SIHF | Show results with:SIHF
  9. [9]
    The Hockey Academy - Zug - EVZ
    The Hockey Academy is a unique training concept in Switzerland that enables athletes to combine sport, training and career in the best possible way.Missing: SIHF affiliation
  10. [10]
    Euro Attendance | Euro Hockey Clubs
    Jul 15, 2025 · EV Zug, SUI, 7365. 31, 27, Malmo Redhawks, SWE, 7193. 32, 39, Spartak Moscow ... Regular-Season average attendance North America. Rank, Rank 2024 ...
  11. [11]
    Company - EVZ
    The EVZ (Eishockeyverein Zug) is the largest ice hockey club in Central Switzerland and, moreover, an innovative sports company with around 118 permanent ...Missing: SIHF | Show results with:SIHF
  12. [12]
    The Bossard Arena is now to be called the Oym Hall - Zug4You
    May 20, 2025 · The current name “Bossard Arena” for the EV Zug stadium is history. The stadium will now be called the Oym Hall. The naming rights have gone to Hans-Peter ...Missing: features | Show results with:features
  13. [13]
    EV Zug home Oym Hall major expansion plans - Coliseum
    May 23, 2025 · ... founded in the year 1967). The other areas of the stadium will be upgraded and tech bells and whistles will be added. The EVZ also made ...Missing: December | Show results with:December
  14. [14]
    OYM hall - EVZ
    Capacity. 7'450 Seats total 2'500 Standing places 4'950 Seating places ... EV Zug Logo. Contact · Imprint · FAQ · Privacy policy · General Terms and Conditions.
  15. [15]
    Bossard Arena, Zug · BEGA
    The sports arena has the highest “Minergie” energy certification in Switzerland, and is considered a model for other new buildings. · In 2015, this sustainable ...Missing: renovations | Show results with:renovations
  16. [16]
    Bossard Arena - Elite Prospects
    Oct 28, 2025 · 7700 seats total 2500 standing places 5200 seats. Extensions: 2017: 7015 to 7200 2024: 7200 to 7700. Popular Nations.Missing: home history<|control11|><|separator|>
  17. [17]
    «New rink seats offer an exclusive experience» - EV Zug
    Jul 26, 2024 · The rink seats in particular, which will be located directly at the edge of the ice rink, will offer an exclusive view of the game and a unique experience.Missing: features | Show results with:features<|separator|>
  18. [18]
    Construction work underway at the BOSSARD Arena - EV Zug
    May 27, 2024 · Construction work at the BOSSARD Arena has been in full swing for a few days now. EVZ is already creating around 600 additional seats for the coming season.Missing: features | Show results with:features
  19. [19]
    Expansion of the ice hockey stadium: the work begins - EV Zug
    May 15, 2025 · Construction work on the expansion of the ice hockey stadium will start in mid-June 2025. The focus is currently on the south extension.
  20. [20]
    EVZ Academy - International Hockey Wiki
    Aug 2, 2024 · EVZ Academy plays its home games in the Zug's training rink, Academy Arena, as well as occasionally in the Bossard Arena, home to EV Zug.
  21. [21]
    Academy Arena Zug - Elite Prospects
    It's home to EV Zug II, EV Zug II U15, EV Zug II U17, EV Zug II U20, EV Zug U16, EV Zug U18, EVZ Academy, EVZ Women's Team, providing facilities for competition ...
  22. [22]
    Bossard Arena remains Bossard Arena | Bossard North America
    Feb 20, 2020 · As agreed in the primary contract, the proceeds will, in turn, flow into the building or the maintenance and renewal of the technical facilities ...Missing: features renovations
  23. [23]
    Bossard and EV Zug extend sponsoring partnership
    Jul 8, 2020 · EV Zug is proud to announce the extension of its longstanding partnership with Bossard, the Naming Right Partner of the BOSSARD Arena in Zug.
  24. [24]
    1999-2000 Relegation Player Stats for EV Zug - Elite Prospects
    1999-2000 relegation player stats for EV Zug, including top goal scorers, most games played, PPG leaders and more.Missing: threats | Show results with:threats
  25. [25]
  26. [26]
    Zug wins longed-for championship - IIHF
    May 10, 2021 · EV Zug wins Switzerland's National League for second time, breaks dominance of the “glorious four”
  27. [27]
    Hockey Factories: The story behind EV Zug - The Coaches Site
    Jun 13, 2023 · After the opening of the world's most impressive training facility and back-to-back league championships, Zug has made itself a major player in ...Missing: history | Show results with:history
  28. [28]
  29. [29]
  30. [30]
    Playoff Quarter-final: HC Davos vs EVZ - EV Zug
    Mar 19, 2025 · It's do or die for the EVZ on Thursday evening (March 20, 20:00) in Davos. With a loss, the 2024-25 season will be over before the end of March.
  31. [31]
    Our Team | EVZ
    Management board ; Patrick Lengwiler. CEO p.lengwiler@evz.ch ; Ibrahim can. Head of Marketing & Sales, Member of the Management Board i.can@evz.ch ; myriam stierli.
  32. [32]
    Reto Kläy - General Manager, EV Zug (NL) - Elite Prospects
    Reto Kläy Facts · Date of BirthAug 31, 1978 · Place of Birth- · Age47 · Nation. Switzerland. Highlights NL Champion 2 SL Champion 1. Brother: Fabio Kläy History
  33. [33]
    Michael Liniger new EVZ Head Coach as of 2025/26 - EV Zug
    Dec 23, 2024 · The EVZ has appointed Michael Liniger as its new head coach. The 45-year-old will take over as head coach from the 2025/26 season and has signed a contract ...
  34. [34]
    Michael Liniger to be promoted to head coach of EV Zug
    Dec 23, 2024 · Michael Liniger, 45, started coaching the GCK Lions in 2017-18 after retiring as a professional hockey player. After five years in the Swiss ...Missing: background | Show results with:background
  35. [35]
    Michael Liniger will be Zug coach - DUBNetwork
    Dec 23, 2024 · Liniger, who played more than 700 matches in the National League with Langnau, Ambri and Kloten, was part of the staff of the Swiss team ...
  36. [36]
    Tomas Montén completes the EVZ coaching staff - EV Zug
    Jun 5, 2024 · EVZ signs the Swede Tomas Montén as assistant coach for the next two years. “Tomas is the ideal candidate for the vacant position of assistant ...Missing: focus | Show results with:focus
  37. [37]
    Tomas Montén - Assistant Coach, EV Zug (NL) - Elite Prospects
    Discover the career of Tomas Montén, Assistant Coach of the EV Zug (NL) - coaching records, awards, team history, and more on Elite Prospects.
  38. [38]
    Roger Hansson returns to the EVZ - EV Zug
    Apr 22, 2025 · The Swede will be assistant to new Head Coach Michael Liniger for the next two seasons. Roger Hansson is very familiar with the EVZ organization ...Missing: focus | Show results with:focus
  39. [39]
  40. [40]
    Simon Pfister - Goalie Coach - Men's Team - EVZ
    Profile ; Birthday. 14.04.1985 ; Nationality. SUI ; With EVZ since. 2017 ; Previous clubs. EHC Olten ...Missing: goaltending | Show results with:goaltending
  41. [41]
    Walter Vattolo - Head Equipment Manager, EV Zug (NL)
    Discover the career of Walter Vattolo, Head Equipment Manager of the EV Zug (NL) - coaching records, awards, team history, and more on Elite Prospects.
  42. [42]
    Men's Team Staff - EVZ
    Coaching Staff. Michael Liniger · Tomas Montén · Roger Hansson · Simon Pfister. Staff. Walter VatTolo. Head of Equipment Management. Benny Boquist.
  43. [43]
    Twelve reasons why the Swiss league tops Europe
    Oct 30, 2017 · 1. Consistent format: Since 2000, the Swiss top league has had 12 teams, with eight making the playoffs (quarter-finals) while teams placed 9 ...
  44. [44]
    2020-21 Swiss-A Playoff Results at hockeydb.com
    ... Zug EV May 5 Zug EV 2 1 at Geneve Servette May 7 Geneve Servette 1 5 at Zug EV Zug EV win championship 3 games to 0. Home | Advertise | Feedback | Usage ...
  45. [45]
    Zug returns to the top in Switzerland | Euro Hockey Clubs
    May 13, 2021 · They made the National League finals in 2017 and 2019 but lost each time to SC Bern. That 2018/19 season was Dan Tangnes's first behind the Zug ...Missing: runners- opponents
  46. [46]
    Swiss Ice Hockey Cup discontinued, Zurich calls time on main ...
    Aug 19, 2020 · The Swiss Ice Hockey Federation has announced that it is cancelling the Swiss Ice Hockey Cup after the conclusion of the 2020-21 edition.
  47. [47]
    EV Zug | Roster - swisshockeynews.ch
    29, 2026, Contract · EP Player Profile. Coaches. Name, Position. Reto Kläy, Team Manager ... NATIONAL TEAM 29.10.2025. EV Zug confirms contract extension of David ...
  48. [48]
    EV Zug @ NLA - 2024‑2025 Stats - QuantHockey
    EV Zug stats, scoring leaders and demographics breakdown in the 2024-2025 NLA season. Player nationality and age distributions, draft rounds of players in ...
  49. [49]
  50. [50]
  51. [51]
    Henrik Zetterberg off to Switzerland - ESPN
    Oct 8, 2012 · Instead, the 32-year-old Swede will play with Switzerland's EV Zug. "Yes, I'm going to play in Switzerland," Zetterberg said Monday morning, ...
  52. [52]
  53. [53]
    Viktor Stalberg Signs With Swiss Club EV Zug - Pro Hockey Rumors
    Jul 11, 2017 · EV Zug, fresh off an appearance in the NLA championship, announced this morning that they have signed NHL veteran Viktor Stalberg to a two-year deal.
  54. [54]
    Deal done - Viktor Stålberg joins EV Zug - swisshockeynews.ch
    EV Zug announces that they have signed Viktor Stålberg to a two-year contract. The Swede will thus leave the NHL after eight seasons. Source: EV Zug.
  55. [55]
    Claude Lemieux Stats And News | NHL.com
    Signed as a free agent by Zug (Swiss), February 9, 2004. Signed as a free agent by China (ALIH), November 15, 2008. Signed as a free agent by Worcester (AHL) ...Missing: EV | Show results with:EV
  56. [56]
    Claude Lemieux (b.1965) Hockey Stats and Profile at hockeydb.com
    Claude Lemieux ; 2003-04, Zug EV, Swiss-A ; 2008-09, Worcester Sharks, AHL ; 2008-09, San Jose Sharks, NHL ...
  57. [57]
  58. [58]
    Pierre-Marc Bouchard - Stats, Contract, Salary & More - Elite Prospects
    Eliteprospects.com hockey player profile of Pierre-Marc Bouchard, 1984-04-27 Sherbrooke, QC, CAN Canada. Most recently in the NLA with EV Zug.
  59. [59]
    Travis Green Hockey Stats and Profile at hockeydb.com
    Statistics and Records of Travis Green, a hockey player and coach from Castlegar, BC born Dec 20 1970 who was active from 1986 to 2008.
  60. [60]
    Travis Green - Stats, Contract, Salary & More - Elite Prospects
    Eliteprospects.com hockey player profile of Travis Green, 1970-12-20 Castlegar, BC, CAN Canada. Most recently in the NLA with EV Zug.
  61. [61]
    Wall of Fame - History - EVZ
    The EVZ discovered the solid defender at the NLB club Herisau and brought him to Zug in 1989. The American-Swiss dual citizen was a regular at EVZ until 1996.
  62. [62]
    Thomas Künzi - Stats, Contract, Salary & More - Elite Prospects
    Thomas Künzi Connections ; André Künzi (D), 1984-1999, 13, EV Zug, SC Bern, SC Bern Future U21, SC Bern II U20 ; Franz Steffen (F), 1986-2000, 11, EV Zug, HC ...
  63. [63]
    After ten seasons - No new contract for EVZ's Josh Holden
    Nov 1, 2023 · Canadian forward Josh Holden will not receive another contract from EV Zug. The club, however, would like to keep the 40-year-old in their ...
  64. [64]
    All Time Overall Totals Player Stats for EV Zug - Elite Prospects
    2. Paul DiPietro (C), 571 ; 3. Josh Holden (C), 491 ; 4. Colin Muller (RW), 562 ; 5. Heinz Jenni (RW), 245 ...
  65. [65]
    Statistics - History - EVZ
    Oct 11, 2024 · The EVZ statistics and achievements over the years of Zug ice hockey. From impressive game figures to glorious moments – here you will find the key numbers in ...
  66. [66]
    Tobias Geisser - Stats, Contract, Salary & More - Elite Prospects
    Tobias Geisser is two-way defenseman with excellent size and mobility. Sees the ice well and plays crisp passes to spark a team's transition game.
  67. [67]
    Tobias Geisser Stats And News | NHL.com
    Tobias Geisser, WSH logo, #46, D, Height: 6′5′′, Weight: 217 lb, Born: 2/13/1999 (Age: 26), Birthplace: Stans, SUI, Shoots: L, Draft:
  68. [68]
    EVZ Women's Team - Roster, News, Stats & more - Elite Prospects
    EVZ Women's Team - SWHL A (W) - hockey team page with roster, stats, transactions at eliteprospects.com.Missing: founding | Show results with:founding
  69. [69]
    Commitment of EV Zug to women's ice hockey - Zug4You
    Jan 24, 2025 · In the end, the Zug women became NLB champions with a goal difference of 317:7 and celebrated promotion to the NLA in their first season.<|control11|><|separator|>
  70. [70]
    Perspectives for women and girls - EV Zug
    Aug 2, 2024 · The aim is to have a girls' team at every age level by 2030. Another piece of the puzzle is the partnership with EHC Sursee in the SWHL B. ...
  71. [71]
    Diaz builds up Swiss women's hockey - IIHF
    Jul 31, 2025 · “With EV Zug, we made new standards. We broke the spectator record [with 4,136 fans at a 15 March semi-final game against HC Davos]. We have a ...
  72. [72]
  73. [73]
    EVZ wins women's label - EV Zug
    May 14, 2025 · The EVZ has set itself the goal of specifically promoting girls and establishing women's ice hockey as a competitive sport in Switzerland.<|control11|><|separator|>
  74. [74]
  75. [75]
    List of Swiss ice hockey champions
    Aug 5, 2024 · History. The Swiss National Championship was first contested in 1909, and continued until 1937, when it was replaced by the Nationalliga A.Missing: promotions | Show results with:promotions
  76. [76]
    EVZ is champion of the SWHL B - EV Zug
    Mar 13, 2024 · In front of a magnificent crowd of 1,452 spectators, the Zug team won the championship title. The EVZ also won the third and final playoff game ...
  77. [77]
    The EVZ ice hockey women win the National Cup - Zug4You
    Jan 27, 2025 · The EV Zug ice hockey women have won the National Cup final in Lausanne,beating Fribourg-Gottéron 5:3, with Lara Stalder involved in all the ...Missing: runner- | Show results with:runner-