“For me, that's what defines the club.”
Monday, 28. April 2025 | EHC Red Bull München coach Oliver David in his first interview
“For me, that's what defines the club.”Coach Oliver David in his first interview// INTERVIEWOliver David has been the new coach of EHC Red Bull München since last Saturday. In his first interview, the 46-year-old talks about his playing philosophy, getting to know the team, and his new home in Munich.
Welcome to Munich, Oliver. What is your first impression of the city?
Oliver David: “I lived near Munich for a season 25 years ago. But I only really got to know the city last year when we spent three days here for my wife Denee's birthday. We visited the Deutsches Museum, BMW Welt, and the Englischer Garten with our son Oden and our daughter Denver. The classic tourist program (laughs).”
What does your family think about moving to Munich?
David: “We were very happy in Salzburg. The city is family-friendly, clean, safe, and beautiful. But everyone I've spoken to so far has described Munich in exactly the same way. Except that the city is even bigger and more exciting. That makes it a lot easier. I still have to convince my children a little, though. It's a big step for them to change schools and move away from their friends. I always tell them that Munich will be exciting for them too and that we can visit Salzburg anytime.”
Have you had a chance to take a closer look at the SAP Garden?
David: “The fans and I have something in common: we all experienced the SAP Garden for the first time as spectators at the grand opening against the Buffalo Sabres. So we already share that experience.”
Oliver David
And how was the experience for you?
David: “I was overwhelmed. In the US, college clubs also have beautiful, large arenas, and I've been to many NHL stadiums. I think the SAP Garden not only comes close, but is one of the best arenas I've ever been to worldwide. The proximity of the stands to the ice, the layout, the technical possibilities, the architecture, and of course the facilities for the players—everything is of the highest standard. I'm looking forward to experiencing this setting every week. But more importantly, we also have to perform in front of this backdrop.”
Have you already had your first contact with your new players?
David: “My first conversation was with Patrick Hager. I immediately understood why he is the team captain. The way he talks about ice hockey, how he works and wants to work, his ambition and determination – I think everyone who has met him sees him as a born leader. The conversation left me with a very good and confident feeling.”
And the rest of the team?
David: “We had a digital team meeting on Sunday. I introduced myself and took the opportunity to share my ideas about ice hockey and our upcoming collaboration with the players. We talked about the ‘Red Bull Way’ and what I expect from each individual.”
What does this path, this club identity, look like to you?
David: “I always describe it as ‘bullish.’ A bull is strong and doesn't shy away from any challenge. Even when the situation seems hopeless, it remains aggressive and continues to attack. It's always leaning forward. For me, that's the identity of the club and the entire organization. I think it paints a clear picture of how we want to play. I hope people understand me (laughs).”
The basic idea is clear. Can you describe how that translates into play on the ice for you?
David: “For me, there's a clear game plan, a basic system that Don Jackson established during his first stint in Munich. We want to build on this concept and develop it further with our ideas and visions that fit in with it. Our players should grow with it and contribute their individual strengths. We want to play constructive and clear hockey. It's always about finding or creating solutions. In doing so, the creativity and freedom that are definitely part of the concept must never be lost.”
Oliver David
What does a player have to do on the ice to impress you and get you excited?
David: “I'm a big fan of players who put the team first. Players who don't work for themselves, but for the team. I try to exemplify this attitude: it's not about what I want, but what we need. What the team needs from me. For me, that means that even offensive players don't always take the nice but risky pass. They throw themselves into shots and work back. Success as a team has to be more important than individual performance.”
What kind of person are you behind the bench and when dealing with the players? Calm and analytical or loud and emotional?
David: “I want to radiate consistency and calm in my communication and demeanor. That gives the players confidence. They need to feel well prepared, understand the game plan, and trust it. If I expressed every time that I was going through an emotional roller coaster, that sense of security would be lost. But that doesn't mean I can't get emotional.”
There's still quite a while to go before the start of the season. What's your schedule for the summer?
David: “Many of the guys are still with their national teams or on vacation. But there are various training groups throughout the summer. I'll be spending a lot of time in Munich and will start preparing for the season right away. During the World Cup, I also want to watch some of Germany's games in Sweden and Denmark. It's important for me to get to know as many people from the club as possible right now. I want to start working right away and build on my successful time in Salzburg.”
Oliver David becomes coach at Red Bull München
Oliver David becomes coach at Red Bull München// TEAM
“It's going to be a great time!”
“It's going to be a great time!”// INTERVIEW
“It's probably going to be a bit weird, but it'll also be a lot of fun”
“It's probably going to be a bit weird, but it'll also be a lot of fun”// INTERVIEW