A new name, a new coach, reinforcements...

HD Jesenice, a professional ice hockey team based in Slovenia, has unveiled its new identity and coaching staff ahead of the upcoming season. The team will compete in both the domestic league and the Alps Hockey League under their new name, HD Jesenice. This marks a fresh start for the club, which was previously known as HD Mladí Jesenice. The transformation includes a new head coach, Czech national Martin Ekrt, who will be assisted by former international player Sabahudin Kovačević, who also oversees youth selections for the club. The team's first match in the Alps Hockey League will take place on Saturday, September 19, when they will face Sisk in a guest appearance. Their home debut is scheduled for Thursday, September 24, against Asiago. These dates were confirmed by the club’s official Facebook page, which also announced the addition of 25-year-old Canadian defender Jaxsen Wyatt to the roster. Wyatt comes from the American collegiate league, having played for the UNLV Rebels. His performance there earned him recognition as the most productive defenseman in the university's history with over 100 points. In the 2024/25 season, he was also crowned national champion of the ACHA D1 division. The transition to HD Jesenice follows a strategic decision made by the club's leadership. According to Miha Rebolj, president of HD Mladí Jesenice and a former Slovenian national team player, the new squad will consist of experienced players combined with young talent. He stated during an interview with TV Slovenia last Friday that this blend would enable the team to play dynamic hockey, aiming for numerous positive results and successes throughout the season. Wyatt's arrival adds depth to the defense, bringing with him experience from the American college circuit. His time with the UNLV Rebels saw him make a significant impact, contributing to the team's success and earning individual accolades. His move to HD Jesenice is expected to bolster the team's defensive capabilities and provide a competitive edge in both domestic and European competitions. The club's rebranding effort reflects broader ambitions to elevate the profile of Slovenian ice hockey. By adopting the HD Jesenice moniker, the team aims to align itself more closely with the country's growing interest in the sport. The appointment of Martin Ekrt as head coach signals a commitment to modernizing the team's approach and strategy. Ekrt brings a wealth of experience from his career in the Czech Republic and abroad, while Kovačević's role ensures continuity in developing younger players within the system. With the new season approaching, fans and supporters are looking forward to seeing how the combination of veteran players, emerging talents, and new coaching strategies will shape the team's performance. The initial matches against Sisk and Asiago will serve as crucial tests for HD Jesenice as they seek to establish themselves in the competitive landscape of European ice hockey.