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- calendar_today October 19, 2026
Historic Firsts for the Halifax Mooseheads
Paul Sintschnig and Nico Uschan have become the first Austrian players in the 32-year history of the Halifax Mooseheads. The two rookies, who have known each other for about six years and played on multiple teams together, are now navigating the challenges of Canadian junior hockey side by side.
Teammates and Friends On and Off the Ice
Seventeen-year-old forward Paul Sintschnig and nineteen-year-old defenceman Nico Uschan are not only teammates — they have also developed a bond much like brothers. Sintschnig describes Uschan as a protective big brother figure, especially when tensions rise on the ice. "On the ice sometimes when I get in a scrum, [Nico] will protect me, so it's like a big brother for me," Sintschnig shared.
Their support for each other goes beyond just the game. Uschan also provides encouragement off the ice, helping Sintschnig manage the pressure that comes with being a top draft pick. "I try to push him, try to give him some confidence when he has a bad shift and stuff like that. I'm here for him," Uschan explained.
Adjusting to Life and Hockey in Canada
Both Sintschnig and Uschan are experiencing a significant transition as they adjust to life in Canada and the demands of Canadian junior hockey. One major challenge for them has been adapting to the smaller North American ice surfaces compared to what they were used to in Austria. To ease their adjustment, both live with the same billet family, which offers a sense of home away from home.
The pair joined the Mooseheads after playing last season with Villacher SV, a men’s team in Austria’s top hockey league. Their partnership has helped ease the challenges of settling into a new league, country, and culture together.
Rising Stars and NHL Hopes
Sintschnig was selected as the second overall pick in the CHL Import Draft in 2026, raising expectations for him to immediately contribute to the Mooseheads’ offence. He currently ranks tied for fifth in team scoring, with six points in his first nine games. While Sintschnig admits the pressure is high, especially in his draft year, he seeks to manage it by communicating openly with teammates, particularly Uschan. "I like to talk things out ... I like to talk with other guys about it and that helps me," Sintschnig said.
Meanwhile, Uschan was selected 81st overall and is focused on finishing his remaining year of junior eligibility. He hopes to play U.S. college hockey following his time in Halifax, while Sintschnig’s objective is to pursue a career in the NHL.
A Memorable Experience in Canadian Junior Hockey
The Austrian rookies are cherishing their shared experience in Canadian junior hockey. From the vibrant crowds at Mooseheads games—where attendance can reach up to 9,000 fans—to being the pioneers for Austrian players at the club, their journey has been significant. "Back home, we have like maybe 3,000 [in attendance] and here you have ... 8,000, 9,000 [at the home opener] and all of them are screaming, so it's pretty cool," Uschan remarked.
Sintschnig and Uschan are making their mark not only as talented players and nhl prospects but also as representatives of Austria in the Canadian junior hockey scene.
Looking Ahead
Although their paths may soon diverge, with Uschan considering U.S. college hockey and Sintschnig setting his sights on the NHL, both are making the most of their time together in Halifax. Their presence highlights the increasing diversity in the Canadian Hockey League and the new opportunities available since the CHL increased the limit of European import players per team.
Source: cbc.ca.
