Luxembourg is a small country in the heart of Europe, but it has some of the best ice hockey players in the world. The country has a long and rich hockey history, with the first ice hockey game played in Luxembourg in 1902.
Over the years, Luxembourg has produced some of the best players in the world, including current NHL stars such as Jean-Gabriel Pageau, Yannick Weber, and Pierre-Edouard Bellemare.
In this article, we will be looking at the best ice hockey players from Luxembourg and their impressive careers..
1. Philippe Lepage
Philippe Lepage stands as one of Luxembourg’s premier ice hockey talents, commanding the role of goalkeeper for Tornado Luxembourg, a team competing in the French ice hockey league’s fourth division.
With a lifelong dedication to the sport, Lepage’s journey began in childhood, culminating in representing Luxembourg in numerous international tournaments.
His reputation is built on exceptional agility, lightning-quick reflexes, and strong leadership abilities displayed on the ice. Philippe Lepage is not only a formidable athlete but also a devoted member of the Federation Luxembourgeoise de Hockey sur Glace, contributing to the growth and governance of ice hockey in Luxembourg.
2. Colm Cannon
Colm Cannon stands out as one of Luxembourg’s most prominent ice hockey players. As a pivotal figure in the sport, he has made significant contributions as a defenseman for a prominent team in the nation’s ice hockey scene.
With a remarkable career trajectory, Colm Cannon has showcased exceptional defensive skills, precise puck-handling, and an innate ability to read the game.
He has earned accolades for his commitment to the sport, and his impact extends beyond the rink, where he serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring players in Luxembourg.
Colm Cannon’s presence exemplifies the passion and dedication within Luxembourg’s ice hockey community.
3. Thierry Beran
Thierry Beran, born April 24, 1992, in Prague, Czech Republic, has carved a prominent place for himself in Luxembourg’s ice hockey landscape. As a forward for Tornado Luxembourg in the French Division 3, Beran’s skills have shone brightly.
He also proudly represents Luxembourg on the international stage, contributing significantly to the national team’s success. With 63 points in 68 games, Beran ranks as the second most prolific player in Luxembourg’s ice hockey history, following in the footsteps of his father, Robert Beran.
Thierry Beran’s achievements highlight his talent and dedication, making him a celebrated figure in Luxembourg’s ice hockey community.
4. Nicolas Mossong
Nicolas Mossong is a prominent ice hockey talent hailing from Luxembourg, recognized for his exceptional skills as a right wing player for the Beaufort Knights.
These Knights compete fiercely in the Belgian second division and the Luxembourg league, with Mossong being a pivotal part of their roster. His international representation for Luxembourg in various World Championships demonstrates his dedication to the sport.
Mossong’s journey began in 2012 with IHC Beaufort, where he honed his skills over five seasons before joining the Knights in 2017. His impressive track record, including 47 points in 68 Belgian league games, underscores his prowess, making him a valuable asset who contributes both offensively and defensively to his team.
5. Claude Mossong
Claude Mossong, born on August 28, 1989, is a standout ice hockey player hailing from Luxembourg. He plays as a forward, showcasing his skills both for the Beaufort Knights in Belgium’s second league and the Luxembourg national team.
With an impressive international record, Mossong has secured three bronze medals at the World Championship Division III in the years 2007, 2009, and 2012.
His stellar performance extends to the Belgium2 league, where he has notched an impressive 144 points in 81 games. Serving as the captain of the Luxembourg national team, Mossong’s commitment shines through in rigorous off-ice fitness tests and collaborative efforts with fellow players and coaches.
His talent, leadership, and unwavering dedication make him a proud representative of Luxembourg on the ice.
6. Michel Welter
Michel Welter, born on February 5, 1983, in Luxembourg City, is a distinguished ice hockey player in Luxembourg. As a forward for the Beaufort Knights in the Luxembourg Hockey League (LHL), Welter has left an indelible mark on the national hockey scene.
Additionally, he is a vital member of the Luxembourg national team, competing in the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) Division III. Welter’s international exploits include the 2017 World Championship in Sofia, Bulgaria, where he contributed significantly with four goals and two assists in five games.
His reputation for speed, skill, and leadership solidifies his status as one of Luxembourg’s most decorated and experienced hockey players in history.
7. François Schons
François Schons is a prominent figure in Luxembourg’s ice hockey scene, celebrated for his exceptional skills and leadership as a defenceman. Currently donning the jersey for the Beaufort Knights in both the Belgium2 and Luxembourg leagues, Schons has left an indelible mark.
A stalwart of the Luxembourg national team competing in the IIHF World Championship Division III, he brings invaluable experience. Schons’ journey commenced at Tornado Luxembourg, spanning 15 seasons across various leagues.
With 11 World Championship appearances and an impressive 42 points in 45 games, he’s renowned for his offensive prowess. Born on January 17, 1984, François Schons is a true luminary in Luxembourg’s ice hockey history.
8. Ronny Scheier
Ronny Scheier, born on October 23, 1981, is a revered figure in Luxembourg’s ice hockey scene. His journey commenced with Tornado Luxembourg in 1999, and he achieved prominence on the international stage, representing Luxembourg at the IIHF World Championships for two decades, from 2000 to 2019.
Notably, Scheier held the captaincy for an impressive 15 consecutive years. As a defenseman, he showcased remarkable skill, amassing 37 points in 68 international games.
While retiring from the national team in 2019, Scheier’s dedication to the sport endures as he continues to compete for Tornado Luxembourg in the French fourth division.
He remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring young players, a true legend in Luxembourg’s ice hockey legacy.
9. Marcus Eriksson
Marcus Eriksson is a notable figure in Luxembourg’s ice hockey scene, bringing his impressive skills to the Tornado Luxembourg team since his arrival in 2023.
Hailing from Sweden, Eriksson has proven himself as a skilled center with exceptional puckhandling abilities, known for maneuvering through opposing defenses with finesse.
Beyond his club contributions, he proudly represents Luxembourg on the international stage, competing in tournaments like the IIHF World Championship Division III.
Luxembourg’s ice hockey history dates back to 1913, marked by the establishment of its first ice rink and the subsequent formation of the Federation Luxembourgeoise de Hockey sur Glace (FLHG) in 1914.
Since then, the country has participated in various international competitions, with Tornado Luxembourg and Beaufort Knights emerging as key clubs, fostering a spirited rivalry in the quest for the LHL Division 1 trophy.
10. Olivier Biver
Ice hockey in Luxembourg has a relatively short but impactful history. The sport began gaining traction when the first ice rink was constructed in 1976.
Just three years later, in 1979, Tornado Luxembourg, the nation’s first ice hockey club, was founded. Luxembourg’s commitment to the sport became official in 1991 with the establishment of the Luxembourg Ice Hockey Federation (FLHG), leading to IIHF membership in 1992.
The FLHG organized the Luxembourg Hockey League (LHL), comprising two divisions, each with six teams. Luxembourg also started fielding national teams for men, women, and juniors.
Notably, players like Olivier Biver have emerged, exemplifying the growth and development of ice hockey in the country.
Conclusion
Ice hockey in Luxembourg has come a long way in recent years, with the emergence of some great players who have gone on to compete and succeed at the highest levels of the sport.
While the country may not be as prominent in the ice hockey world as some of its neighbors, it is clear that Luxembourg has some great players who have made a name for themselves.
With the continued development of the sport in the country, it is likely that even more great players will come out of Luxembourg in the future.
