HCFG's Julien Sprunger: "It is very likely this will be my last season"

Although nothing is decided, Julien Sprunger explains, he will likely retire at the end of the upcoming season: "Honestly, I haven't made a decision yet. Last year, I already thought that it might be my last season. [...] Today, nothing has been decided, but there's a good chance this will be my last year. I've always said that I wouldn't play until I was 40, an age I'll reach this season. I don't want to hang on until I'm kicked out. But for now, I haven't made any official decision."

Asked about his physical condition, Sprunger admits that he still feels good, although some aspects have changed as a soon-to-be 40-year-old: "Inevitably, some things become more complicated, especially recovery. Compared to 20-year-olds who recover much faster, you can feel the difference [...] But I set myself the goal of being really fit this season, and I worked very hard for that. This summer, I broke my endurance records again, which is a good sign. Today, I know my body much better, my limits, and what I need. That said, certain things like explosiveness or recovery after games inevitably take longer."

In a few days, Sprunger will begin his 23rd season with HC Fribourg-Gottéron, the only club in his career.