ZSC Lions extend contract with head coach Rikard Grönborg

The ZSC Lions have prematurely extended the contract with their head coach Rikard Grönborg, which runs until 2020/21, by two years until 2022/23.

With Rikard Grönborg, the ZSC Lions found their way back to success last season. The team worked under him and won the qualifying round of the National League. However, due to the Corona pandemic, the team did not get the chance to finish the season or make the playoffs.

With the early contract extension, the city club ensures continuity in the coaching position. The extension is a strong sign - from both sides. "We want to pursue the DNA created last year and continue on our chosen path beyond the 2020/21 season with Rikard at all costs," says sports director Sven Leuenberger. The feedback from the players' side and the management side has been consistently positive, "and I personally can report a very professional collaboration with Rikard." Grönborg, a 52-year-old dual Swedish-American citizen, plans to continue his coaching duties with the Lions beyond next season. He and his family feel very comfortable in Zurich. "It's a win-win situation," Leuenberger said. Included in the new contract is an NHL exit clause valid until Dec. 31, 2021, for the 2022/23 season.

Rikard Grönborg joined the ZSC Lions from the Swedish Ice Hockey Association for the 2019/20 season. In Sweden, he had worked at various levels in different functions since 2006, finally as head coach of the senior national team from 2016. As head coach, Grönborg has already led the team to two World Championship gold medals.