The Spengler Cup returns to Davos
University of New Hampshire men's hockey head coach Mike Souza has been appointed to lead the U.S. Collegiate Selects at the 98th edition of the Spengler Cup, which will be staged in Davos, Switzerland, from December 26 to 31.
Souza will be joined on the bench by longtime assistants Scott Sandelin and Casey Jones, both of whom bring extensive coaching pedigrees from the college ranks.
The 2026 USCS roster comprises 25 student‑athletes drawn from NCAA Division I programs across the country, each hoping to showcase their talent on an international stage.
A coach with deep collegiate roots
In his ninth season at UNH, Souza has built on a playing career that spanned the AHL, ECHL, and European leagues in Switzerland, Germany and Italy, and culminated in a national championship game appearance in 1999. His coaching journey began at Brown University before stints at the University of Connecticut and now UNH, where he has become a fixture in the Hockey East conference.
The tournament, recognized as the world's oldest invitational hockey event, traditionally features club teams from Europe and North America. This year's field will include Swiss powerhouse HC Davos and Swedish club Frölunda HC, providing the U.S. squad with a rigorous test against seasoned professionals.
Beyond the competition, Souza expressed pride in representing college hockey and highlighted the opportunity to collaborate with respected coaches while mentoring the next generation of talent.
The event will be held at the historic Davos Ice Rink, drawing fans and scouts alike as the Spengler Cup continues to serve as a showcase for the sport's global reach.