“Look, I’m doing my shopping.” A few minutes after Daniel Villard’s announcement to SRF of the quarantine of HC Biel players, the message had clearly not yet passed. This player preferred to shorten our interview to clarify the situation. It must be said that the announcement of the infection of coach Antti Törmänen on Sunday evening surprised many. “It was a shock, confirmed Stéphanie Mérillat, co-president of the club. But at the same time it was an illusion to imagine that nobody would be hit in the ice hockey community. “
Contacted by message, the coach of the Zealanders simply confirmed to us that “everything was fine”. A feeling confirmed by his assistant coach, Anders Olsson: “We had an exchange where he wanted to be reassuring. He told us to wait at home with his family for his quarantine to end. ” Still in Switzerland by force of circumstances, the assistant coach takes his pain patiently. “I feel healthy,” he says. My nose is a little stuffy, but everything I have read is unrelated. With what is happening in Antti, we know that we are more in danger. That’s why you have to be vigilant. ”
“Thinking about others”
Before the announcement regarding Antti Törmänen, the Tissot Arena club had already reacted. “On Sunday, the decision was made to close the offices,” continued Stéphanie Mérillat. We made this choice for the good of everyone. The important thing now is everyone’s health. ” As it stands, HC Biel has canceled all meetings of the Board of Directors and meetings with donors. “This is not the urgency of the moment,” continues the leader. We will now have to see how long it will last and how we will get over it. ”
Damien Riat, also in contact with Antti Törmänen, takes his pain patiently. “I’m still awaiting the decision regarding the world championship,” he explains. But it’s hard to know how to behave. Do I have to train at home to stay in shape or is it pointless? ” The winger will play next season in North America after signing a two-year contract with the Washington Capitals. “It’s a little frustrating as a situation,” he explains. But it’s important to stay at home for the good of others. This is why I understand this reality. “
Grégory Beaud
Created: 03.16.2020, 11.55 am
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