Olympic ice hockey star dies aged just 31 as tributes paid to 'artist'

06 May 2024 , 07:59

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Alexander Reichenberg (Image: Getty Images)

Ice hockey star Alexander Reichenberg has died at the age of 31, his club have sadly confirmed.

Reichenberg, born in Sweden, started his professional career at hometown club Lillehammer IK during the 2008/09 season. He enjoyed a stellar career in the Czech Republic, Sweden and Austria and represented Norway at international level, starring for the country at the Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang.

After two years with rival club Storhamar Hockey, Reichenberg returned to Lillehammer in 2018. He had time out on loan at HC Sparta Praha and Farjestad before finding his best form for Lillehammer. Last winter, Reichenberg had his best season to date - scoring 44 points in the regular campaign.

Lillehammer described him as "a big profile, a player with an x-factor in his game and an important contributor to the group". He also became part of their captain's team before last season and received "well-deserved attention from several big clubs in Norway and abroad" for his performances.

A statement, posted by Lillehammer to announce his sad passing, finished: "It is unbelievably sad to think that he will never get to hear the audience's tactful shouts in Eidsiva Arena and that we who sat in the stands will not get to see the player with the big smile, the extra feint or the hard-hitting shot from the drop circle in the power play.

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"Rest in Peace, No. 61. You will always be remembered as an artist. Our thoughts and condolences go out to family, girlfriend and team-mates. This is published in consultation with the next of kin."

Alexander Reichenberg represented Norway at the Winter Olympics (Getty Images)

Last weekend, it was reported Reichenberg had spoken to Valerenga over a possible move, and that there was interest from Denmark, Slovakia, Austria and France.

Lillehammer added: "Of course, there was also an offer from the parent club on the table and he wanted to spend time evaluating a new professional offer abroad against a good life with work, club games and belonging to friends and colleagues at Lillehammer."

Reichenberg made a total of 19 senior appearances for Norway, scoring five goals and adding four assists.

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Kieran King