The Deutscher Eishockey-Bund (DEB) strengthens its advisory team: Korbinian Holzer will henceforth be Head coach of the U20 national team be active and simultaneously assumes a Advisory role for the DEB in the areas of sports development and DEB-Academy. The contract, based on a fee, officially starts on July 1, 2026, and is initially limited to one year.
As team manager, Holzer will work closely with U20 national coach Tobias Abstreiter and U18 national coach Andreas Becherer They will work together. The 38-year-old will oversee all activities of the U20 national team and will also be active in his new role at the upcoming IIHF U20 World Championship 2027 in Canada. Korbinian Holzer is currently also completing his coaching certification. DEB.
Korbinian Holzer“The national team was and is a matter close to my heart. I now want to contribute this passion in a new role. I look forward to working with Tobias Abstreiter and the entire staff of the U20 team, and to working with the federation officials to further develop young talent and training programs. I would like to thank…” DEB, which offers me the chance to embark on a new path immediately after the end of my active career.”
Christian Kunast, Sports Board of the DEB“We are delighted that Korbinian is joining us and will support the further development of the U20 national team with his experience. Both the staff and the players will benefit from his knowledge. He will also…” DEB also in sports development and in the DEB-The academy will provide advisory support. This is a combination that creates added value for all parties involved.”
Brief portrait of Korbinian Holzer
Korbinian Holzer is one of the most influential German ice hockey players of the past two decades. He played 211 games in the NHL for the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Anaheim Ducks, and the Nashville Predators. This made him one of the German defensemen who were able to establish themselves long-term in the world's strongest league. He recently crowned his career with a championship title with the Graz 99ers. DEBHolzer played 91 international matches for the national team. Earlier this week, he announced his retirement as an active player.