As a fan in the dressing room, Moritz Seider experienced the semi-finals at the Ice Hockey World Championships – and was very impressed by his teammates.
“I showered a bit frustrated and watched the game in the dressing room,” said the NHL defender after practice on Friday. “Of course you’re excited and very enthusiastic about the team spirit that prevailed in the team.”
The 22-year-old is back on the World Cup ice sheet because his team-mates jumped into the breach for him after the game misconduct penalty in the 3-1 win over Switzerland. A ban was not imposed on Gaetan Haas after the tough gang check. Seider will play against the USA on Saturday (5:20 p.m. CEST/Sport1 and MagentaSport).
What he saw as an involuntary spectator convinced him even more of the qualities of the German Ice Hockey Federation (DEB) selection. “It sets us apart that we’re still finding that extra gear that wants to go one step further, so willing to give everything to bring the win home,” said Seider, “not many teams have that . That’s one reason why we’re standing right here now.”
In the semi-finals, the DEB team reaches for the first World Cup medal in 70 years. “Hopefully we’ll have them for sure after the game,” said Seider, emphasizing: “It shouldn’t end here.”
The new national coach Harold Kreis has played a large part in the success. “Harry is characterized by his very calm way of always finding the right words, even in difficult moments,” the young NHL star praised the 64-year-old, “he’s incredibly good at motivating, knows exactly what to say and when.”