Tuesday, 05. May 2026 |
EHC Red Bull München: First Interview with Elis Hede
You started your career at the Red Bull Hockey Academy. So your move is also a return to our organization. What were your thoughts as the talks became more concrete?
Elis Hede: “I was very happy. It’s the next step in my career and development. At the same time, I’m already familiar with the way training is done in Munich. I know the playing philosophy, and that certainly makes it easier for me to fit in. Over the past few years—thanks in part to my dad—I’ve always had a good relationship with Munich.”
What memories do you associate with your time at the academy?
Hede: “Only good ones. Things didn’t go as I’d imagined in Finland. Going to Salzburg was the right move at the right time. Without the academy, I certainly wouldn’t have become a pro. I remember great games, good moments with the teams, and also a lot of hard training (laughs).”
Do you still know anyone from your time at the academy who plays in Munich today?
Hede: “I still know Phillip Sinn a little bit. His first year was my last in Salzburg. I’m looking forward to seeing him again. I also know one or two people from the staff in Munich. So it’s not all unfamiliar.”
How would you describe yourself as a forward? What are your strengths on the ice?
Hede: “My speed and my skating are two key elements of my game. In recent years, however, I’ve worked on my defensive skills in addition to my offensive strengths. It’s important not to neglect these aspects, even as a forward.”
Is that also where your focus lies in your future development?
Hede: “Of course, I also want to improve in some offensive aspects. However, I still see the greatest potential in my physicality—I can still step it up there.”
You mentioned the connection between your father and the organization yourself. Did his past in Munich influence your decision to come here?
Hede: “We talked a lot, of course, and he was able to tell me a great deal about the club. He assured me that I’m in really good hands and that the people here work hard and with passion. That was very important to me and gave me a sense of security.”
It’s certainly no coincidence that you’ll be wearing your father’s jersey number here.
Hede: “The number 10 has actually always been my favorite number—I wore it at the academy, too. Once the move was finalized, I asked my dad what he thought about it. He said that since it doesn’t hang under the arena roof with our names on it yet, I basically have to take it (laughs).”
Leaving the SAP Garden and hockey aside for a moment, what are you most looking forward to in Munich?
Hede: “I think Munich is great—a very, very beautiful city. I already know my way around pretty well. I just want to enjoy my time here, try out a few new restaurants, and see a lot of the city.”
How do you spend your free time in Munich, aside from going out to restaurants?
Hede: “Like many other hockey players, I enjoy playing golf. I also like to go for bike rides or take walks. I’m not much of a gamer, but I do play PlayStation every now and then—and in the evenings, I like to watch TV shows. I prefer to just relax.”
Your dad used to enjoy throwing a few darts at the dartboard during his lunch break at the office. Do you share that passion?
Hede (laughs): “So that’s where he got it from. He bought a dartboard in Finland last year. Whenever I call my mom, she tells me he’s practicing on the board right then. I like to play too, and whenever I’m home, we have friendly competitions. But I’m not an active player and definitely not a pro.”
This is your first interview as a player for EHC Red Bull München. Do you have a few final words for the fans?
Hede: “I’m incredibly excited for the first game with you all. I used to be at the Olympic Ice Stadium as a spectator, and at the SAP Garden I was on the other side. Now, playing for Munich and for you—it’s going to be great.”
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