To celebrate AIHL Finals weekend, we have two Q&As for the price of none! And it’s our two very popular 2022 Imports..

Firstly, a chat with Mario Trabucco..

Congratulations on your play this year! How do see the team’s performances so far?
I think the team has performed the way we expected it to. Our goal was to finish at the top of the standings and we managed to do that. We've had a few hiccups along the way - but every team has them - and we were able to regroup and finish strong.

You’ve played in North America and Europe for the majority of your career. What did you know about Australian Ice Hockey - and the Brave - before you arrived?
I didn't know much about Australian hockey or the Brave to be honest, but I was pleasantly surprised once I arrived. The Brave are an organisation with many moving parts. They have several key members (employees and volunteers) in the background that care a lot about the team and this city. By my experience, it's those teams that often succeed the most.

What do you think of the standard of Hockey here in Australia?
The standard of Hockey here in Australia is always evolving/growing. I think that the motivation from the Ice Hockey community to raise the bar when it comes to the development of players, facilities and the league, is apparent and needs to continue moving in an upward motion so that Australian Ice Hockey can reach it's full potential.

Aside from Australia (and our Brave Cave), where is the most unusual place that you have played Hockey? Is there anywhere you’ve played that matches up to the quality of Rink and Spectator we have here in Canberra?
I have played in so many rinks in my life that I can't narrow it down to just one. One of the most iconic, however, was the "Miracle on Ice" rink in Lake Placid, NY, where Team USA won the Olympics vs the Russians in 1980 (Movie : “Miracle”). It was my home rink for three years in High School. Playing in the Brave Cave has undoubtedly been one of the most unique experiences when it comes to rinks I've visited throughout my career.

You’ve been in Canberra for a little while now. What are your favourite things to do around the City?
So far, I've enjoyed a fair bit of what Canberra has to offer. I'm working full time though, so visiting the major stuff will have to wait until after the season. I have spent a little bit of time at the coast and I definitely enjoy that!

Do you have any message you’d like to give to the Brave Fans?
Brave fans, you have been welcoming and rowdy and loud and supportive this whole season. Myself and the team really appreciate every moment and cheer we get to share with you - and we hope to round out this season with a championship victory! See you all in Melbourne!

The AIHL Finals are here! This weekend, the Brave take on the best of the League for the Goodall Cup. 
We always like to see our fans in person - but if you cannot be in Melbourne remember that you will be able to see all of the Finals on Kayo Freebies. (https://kayosports.com.au/freebies).

 Go Brave!