Former forward Giulio Scandella returned to Hockey Club Asiago as the club’s North American ambassador, the team announced.
The new role aims to build international relationships and tap into networks the player developed throughout his professional career.
The appointment connects the first team’s search for player talent with long-term youth development and plans for a future Academy.
Scandella arrived in Asiago in December 2003 at age 20, later playing for teams in Sweden, Switzerland, Austria, and across Italy, including a second stint with Asiago from 2016 to 2018 where he won the Alps Hockey League title in the 2017-18 season.
President Mario Lievore said that having a stable overseas point of reference who understands hockey and maintains a special connection to the town is essential for the club’s future.
“For us it’s fundamental to have a stable point of reference in North America, a person who deeply knows hockey and who has maintained a special relationship with Asiago over the years,” Lievore told hcasiago.net.
“Giulio can give us an important hand not only for the first team, but above all to build something that looks to the future.”
The initiative involves developing a local Academy to position Asiago as a center for ice sports in Italy. The plan requires new facilities, alongside the development of coaches and executives through structured planning.
Scandella recalled his early days in Italy and the welcome he received from veteran teammates when he first joined the roster two decades ago.
“When I arrived here I was a ‘bocia’, I was twenty years old and the Italian players, in particular Michele Strazzabosco and Giorgio De Bettin, welcomed me like a brother,” Scandella told hcasiago.net.
“These are things you don’t forget. Asiago has always been a ‘home away from home’ for me and I will always carry this place in my heart.”
The Montreal-born former skater intends to use his contacts to find personnel for the Academy and secure financial opportunities. He emphasized developing domestic players alongside foreign signings to keep the club stable.
Sports Director Michele Strazzabosco highlighted the personal and professional value of bringing Scandella back into the organization.
“Asiago is a special place to play hockey, but for a true bond to be created, both parties must be willing,” Strazzabosco told hcasiago.net.
“Giulio built relationships here that remained alive over time and today we have the opportunity to develop something new together.”
The new role aligns with a broader strategy to grow ice sports across the Altopiano region. Objectives include utilizing existing infrastructure through a partnership with the Municipality of Roana to expand training and development opportunities for young athletes.
Keep reading