Munich, April 24 – Konrad Abeltshauser, an iconic figure for EHC Munich, is leaving the club after ten years of service. The 33-year-old defenseman, affectionately known as “Kini” (Bavarian for king) by fans and teammates, was instrumental in securing four championships for EHC Munich (2016, 2017, 2018, 2023). The club officially announced his departure on Friday, April 24, 2026.
A Decade of Dominance: Abeltshauser’s Impact on EHC Munich
Abeltshauser joined EHC Munich in 2016 from Canada and quickly became a cornerstone of the team. His tenure saw the club achieve unprecedented success in the German Ice Hockey League (DEL). He is second only to Maximilian Kastner in the number of DEL appearances for EHC Munich, with 571 games played. Additionally, Abeltshauser played 63 times in the Champions Hockey League (CHL), leading EHC Munich to the final in 2019, where they ultimately fell to the Frölunda Indians from Gothenburg.
In an emotional video message to the fans, Abeltshauser expressed his gratitude and sadness regarding his departure. “It’s hard to find words for things you hoped you’d never have to say,” he began. “But everything comes to an end eventually. And so my time in Munich is also coming to an end. It was better than I could have ever dreamed. They were wonderful years, so many friendships made, so many championships celebrated.”
“Kini” Thanks the Fans and the Club
Abeltshauser also extended his heartfelt thanks to the EHC Munich supporters. “Having you behind me, there was nothing better. All the times you stormed the ice after championships, we celebrated for hours, drank beer, and took photos. No one can take those moments away from us.”
Christian Winkler, Managing Director of EHC Munich, praised Abeltshauser’s contributions, stating, “It’s practically impossible to put into words what Koni has achieved for us on and off the ice. He was a true role model for young and old in every situation. We can only thank him for ten years of honesty, passion, and absolute dedication. We wish him and his wonderful family continued success and a prosperous future.”
EHC Munich Faces Significant Roster Changes
Abeltshauser’s departure comes at a time of significant change for EHC Munich. The team recently failed in the DEL play-off semi-finals against Adler Mannheim, signaling a broader restructuring. Alongside Abeltshauser, five other players-Dillon Heatherington, Alberts Smits, Nikolaus Heigl, Vadim Schreiner, and Simon Wolf-are also confirmed to be leaving the club.
This wave of departures suggests a new era for EHC Munich as they look to rebuild and maintain their competitive edge in the DEL. The club will undoubtedly face the challenge of replacing experienced players like Abeltshauser, whose leadership and skill were vital to their past successes.
The impact of these changes on the team’s performance in the upcoming season remains to be seen, but fans will surely remember Abeltshauser’s decade of dedication and the numerous victories he helped bring to Munich.
Source: BR24Sport
