The Hockey Club Lugano announces that it has relieved head coach Luca Gianinazzi of his role leading the first team. In this emotionally challenging moment, the club thanks Luca for his complete dedication and outstanding professionalism over the past 27 months, and for taking on the significant challenge presented to him in October 2022. The club wishes him all the best, both personally and professionally. Assistant coaches Krister Cantoni and Kalle Kaskinen have also been relieved of their duties, with gratitude for their energy and team spirit.
These were the words of President Vicky Mantegazza:
“This decision is painful for me, even on a personal level. Several times this season, it seemed like we had the strength to bounce back. However, after the last defeat against Fribourg, the team no longer showed grit or character, and the situation deteriorated to the point of making this step inevitable. Everyone in the club firmly believed Luca could be our coach for many years. But the team has fallen into a black hole, and a strong decision was needed.”
CEO Marco Werder added:
“In recent weeks, the entire club has focused all its energy and resources on supporting the coaching staff. We were truly convinced that providing Luca and his assistants with support was a unique opportunity to change the routine and approach of HCL in the face of a results crisis. However, the team’s mental fragility is simply too apparent.”
At the same time, the Hockey Club Lugano and current General Manager Hnat Domenichelli have mutually agreed to end their professional collaboration, which began in the summer of 2019.
This period was marked by significant changes in the National League landscape following the financial and other consequences of the pandemic. HCL thanks Hnat for his dynamism and determination over more than five years. Domenichelli will support the club administratively until a new sports manager is appointed, with the search beginning immediately.
-During this delicate time, the Hockey Club Lugano will continue to rely on the experience, sensitivity, and valuable support of Antti Törmänen as a sports advisor.
Hnat Domenichelli expressed his thoughts:
“I am at peace and relieved to have found a solution that benefits Hockey Club Lugano. It has been a pleasure and an honor to be part of this club and work with everyone who has helped me. I wish them all the best for the future.”
Since yesterday, the club has been working tirelessly to bring a new head coach to Lugano and designate their new assistants. Once negotiations are concluded, an official announcement will follow.
