The 10th edition of the gala dinner, jointly organized by the Golden Wings Club (GWC) and the HC Lugano Academy Foundation, took place on February 26, 2025, at the Padiglione Conza in Lugano, raising over 115,000 CHF in support of the HCL Youth Section.
A record-breaking amount for an evening hosted by Sandy Altermatt and enriched by the hilarious performances of the Frontaliers. The event welcomed over 300 guests, including federal, cantonal, and municipal political figures, business and financial leaders, sponsors, club officials, and supporters who demonstrated their generosity towards HC Lugano.
The total funds raised were also boosted by an exclusive auction, which inspired philanthropic generosity among attendees. The auction featured:
The 30-year-old Latvian netminder, a NHL player who developed through HC Lugano’s Youth Academy, was undoubtedly the highlight of the event.
A captivating video interview, conducted by Enrico Carpani and Paolo Guglielmoni, revealed Merzlikins in a new and inspiring role: a proud ambassador and direct financial supporter of the HC Lugano Academy Foundation.
Once again, Merzlikins expressed his deep gratitude towards HC Lugano, reinforcing the story of his personal and professional growth, which led him to fulfill his dreams with the support of the bianconeri family.
Watch Elvis Merzlikins’ full interview here:
Photo caption (@HC Lugano): From left on stage at Padiglione Conza: The HC Lugano U20 Elit team, Alessandro Chiesa (Head of Junior Department HCL), Massimo Pedrazzini (President of the HC Lugano Academy Foundation), Sandy Altermatt, and Andrea Gehri (President of the Golden Wings Club).
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