Zuger Kantonalbank supports the EVZ Women's Team. What does the commitment of ZugerKB do for ice hockey in terms of appreciation and acceptance?

ZugerKB earns considerable recognition from the Women & Girls programme and stands out as a strong partner and general sponsor on our way towards more equal opportunity in ice hockey. Together, in collaboration with the girls’ hockey school, we want to give girls the same access to the sport.

Are you and your team perceived as role models?

With the Women & Girls programme, we are doing important pioneering work in Swiss women’s ice hockey in terms of commitment and structures, possibilities and conditions for the players, as well as for the development of the sport and we definitely function as an example to follow. Last year, we already accomplished a lot and want to inspire others – achieving the targeted equal opportunity is only possible if we pull together.
The EVZ Women's Teams has also just created a beacon for the young generation. Many players are role models for the young generation. This is extremely important.
 

Were there specific situations in which you felt the lack of recognition in the sport?

There weren’t any specific situations. As a player, it was part of “everyday life”, and it was “normal” that I didn't receive the same public recognition and appreciation as my brother Raphael Diaz did as an ice hockey player. So I’m all the more pleased today to be part of this movement and, together with an excellent organisation and an incredible team, to promote and work for it.

Can you share an experience with us that shows how important equal opportunity and recognition are in sport?

There are many experiences, like those from my past. We still have a long way to go in terms of equal opportunity: the public interest (media, spectators and sponsorship), girls taking up the sport (usually with boys), the conditions and the opportunities for a player in competitive sports. What we have in Zug is unique. An elite athlete often works full-time so that leaves little time for rest and a private life, which results in a poor work-life balance.

Which role models were your inspiration, including those in other sporting disciplines?

I’m inspired by various people who are committed to equal opportunity – those who work in sports, in politics or business. I don't have any specific role models.

Women's ice hockey has become a central topic. What would be your wish for the future of women's ice hockey?

That a female ice hockey player has the same opportunities to practise the sport as a male player, naturally including the same recognition and appreciation for the same performance.

To what extent does ZugerKB’s commitment generate added value?

I appreciate ZugerKB as a strong partner on our journey and in our commitment to equal recognition and appreciation for the work and performance that we produce as a team (EVZ, employees, staff, players, etc.) We also benefit from the added value that is created by the broad-based perception and appeal of ZugerKB among the public.

The EVZ doesn't just delight the Canton of Zug with elite ice hockey. Interesting championships, plenty of goals and thrilling scenes provide fun and action. Zuger Kantonalbank has been the official sponsor of the EVZ Men's Team since 1997 and has been the sponsorship partner of the new EVZ Women's Team since 2023. We are proud of the EVZ players and cheer the club on every season with plenty of passion and great offers. HOPP ZUG!