Alessio Bertaggia returns to Lugano, new opportunity for Aleksi Peltonen, Matthew Verboon departs

After defenseman Brian Zanetti and forward Dario Simion, a third player who grew up in the Bianconeri youth sector is finding his way back home.

Alessio Bertaggia, 31, has decided to return to Ticino after three seasons with Genève-Servette. With the Grenats, the speedy right winger won a national Championship in 2023 and triumphed in the Champions Hockey League in 2024.

Bianconeri fans can once again embrace a generous and passionate player, a fan favorite who has signed a three-year contract (2025–2028) and is preparing to play his 14th National League season. His debut in Switzerland’s top league dates back to the 2010/11 season, before embarking on a North American adventure in the Western Hockey League (WHL), first with the Brandon Wheat Kings, then with the Spokane Chiefs.

After playing around seventy games with Zug upon his return to Switzerland in 2013, Alessio continued his career in Lugano until 2022, reaching the playoff finals in both 2016 and 2018 under head coaches Doug Shedden and Greg Ireland, respectively. Then came the challenge in Calvin's city, and now the return to the Cornèr Arena.

Over the course of his career, Alessio Bertaggia has played 687 National League games, tallying 234 points (104 goals, 130 assists), and has worn the Swiss national jersey 18 times.

At the same time, 26-year-old forward Aleksi Peltonen, who already wore the black-and-white jersey last season (40 games), has signed a contract valid for the 2025/26 season, with a club option for an additional year.

Meanwhile, Matthew Verboon will be leaving the Cornèr Arena. HCL and the player have mutually agreed to terminate the contract, which was originally valid through the end of the 2025/26 season. The club would like to take this opportunity to thank the 25-year-old forward, who holds both Swiss and Canadian passports, for his commitment. Over the course of two seasons, he played 119 games with the team, tallying 22 points. HCL wishes him all the best for his personal and professional future.

These are the first words of Alessio Bertaggia, who is returning to the team closest to his heart:

"Dear black-and-white family, I am thrilled to return to Lugano starting next season. Being part of the team’s rebuilding is a great source of prid, and I can’t wait to get started. I will give my all for the black-and-white colors with the goal of helping the club become competitive at the highest level once again."

Janick Steinmann, General Manager of Hockey Club Lugano, commented on Alessio Bertaggia’s return and Aleksi Peltonen’s contract extension:

"Alessio Bertaggia has a black-and-white heart. His speed, intensity and experience will be valuable assets to our roster. He’s a versatile forward who can be deployed in various roles. This type of player has been sorely missed in recent years. In building the team for next season, I also came to the conclusion that Aleksi Peltonen deserves a new opportunity. He is a reliable winger who can continue to develop both defensively and offensively. His attitude is excellent and aligns perfectly with the club’s new philosophy."