Meet the Team: Switzerland's roster for the 2025 World Juniors

Switzerland’s 2024 World Junior Championship campaign concluded with a respectable seventh-place finish. They gave Sweden a tough challenge in the quarter-finals, ultimately losing 3–2 in overtime. Throughout the tournament, Switzerland demonstrated their trademark discipline and structure, as well as an ability to compete with some of the world’s best teams.

For this team, there are several intriguing options. The biggest highlight is Jonah Neuenschwander. At just 15 years old, Jonah Neuenschwander made history by becoming the first player of his age to compete in the IIHF World Junior Championship in 24 years. Jamiro Reber could serve as the sniper for the Swiss, having been fantastic in the SHL this season. Logically, this team includes several names from the EV Zug system, a team that has reached the semi-finals in recent seasons.

The team’s tactical discipline and counterattacking ability will be key in Group B matchups against Czechia, Sweden, Slovakia, and Kazakhstan.

Switzerland opens the tournament against Czechia on December 26 in what promises to be an intriguing clash of styles. The Swiss will aim to advance beyond the quarter-finals this year, a feat that has eluded them in recent tournaments. Their ability to frustrate opponents with tight defensive play and opportunistic scoring makes them a dark horse contender. If they can generate enough offence to complement their defensive systems, Switzerland could make a deep run in the 2025 championship.

Forwards

Robin Nico Antenen, LW, EV Zug (NL)

Robin Nico Antenen, an 18-year-old left winger standing at 6'2" and weighing 190 lbs, has been a notable presence for EV Zug in the National League. After progressing through EV Zug's youth system, he secured a professional contract extension in November 2024, committing to the team through the 2026-27 season.
Antenen's size and skill make him effective along the boards and in front of the net, contributing to his team's offensive depth.

Léo Braillard, LW/RW, Lethbridge Hurricanes (WHL)

Leo Braillard, a 19-year-old forward from La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, has been making significant strides in the Western Hockey League (WHL) with the Lethbridge Hurricanes. Standing at 5'11" and 174 lbs, Braillard was acquired by the Hurricanes in October 2024 and has since become an integral part of their offence. He is known for his quick release and offensive instincts.

Jan Dorthe, F, HC Fribourg-Gottéron (NL)

Jan Dorthe is a promising forward currently playing for Fribourg-Gottéron in the Swiss National League. His vision on the ice allows him to create scoring opportunities for his teammates, making him a valuable asset in the offensive zone. As he continues to gain experience at the professional level, Dorthe is expected to play a significant role in Switzerland's forward group, bringing creativity and depth to the team's attack.

Janis Embacher, C/RW, EHC Winterthur (SL)

Janis Embacher is recognized for his versatility and two-way play, contributing both offensively and defensively. His work ethic and commitment to all aspects of the game make him a reliable player in various situations, including special teams.

Alain Graf, C, SC Bern (NL)

Alain Graf is a forward currently playing for SC Bern in the Swiss National League. Graf's game is characterized by his physicality and presence on the ice, often engaging in battles along the boards and in front of the net. His size and strength make him an effective forechecker, disrupting opponents' plays and creating turnovers. Offensively, Graf has a powerful shot and is known to capitalize on scoring opportunities in high-traffic areas. His physical style of play and ability to contribute offensively add a valuable dimension to the team's forward group.

Rico Gredig, LW/C, HC Davos (NL), drafted by the New York Rangers

Rico Gredig is a forward for HC Davos in the Swiss National League. Gredig is known for his speed and agility, making him a constant threat on the rush. His ability to navigate through defences and create scoring chances off the transition is a significant asset. Defensively, Gredig's quickness allows him to effectively backcheck and support his team's defensive efforts. His combination of speed and offensive instincts is expected to bring an element of dynamism to the national team's forward lineup.

Kimo Gruber, C, GC Küsnacht Lions (SL)

Kimo Gruber's play is marked by his strong hockey sense and playmaking abilities. He has demonstrated the ability to read the game effectively, positioning himself well to create and capitalize on scoring opportunities. His vision and passing skills are excellent.

Andro Kaderli, F, Leksands IF (SHL)

Andro Kaderli is a forward currently playing for Leksands IF in Sweden. He is known for his work ethic and commitment to both ends of the ice, making him a reliable two-way forward. He will be a key physical power forward who will bring a ton of energy to every shift.

Endo Meier, F, GC Küsnacht Lions (SL)

Endo Meier is recognized for his offensive capabilities, particularly his shooting accuracy and goal-scoring instincts. He has a knack for finding open spaces in the offensive zone. Meier's offensive contributions are complemented by his willingness to engage physically, making him a well-rounded forward. His scoring touch and physical play are expected to add a competitive edge to the national team's offence.

Rafael Meier, LW/RW, EHC Kloten (NL)

Rafael Meier is a forward playing for EHC Kloten in the Swiss NL. He has an exceptional ability to read plays in his defensive zone, often breaking up passes or intercepting pucks. His work ethic and commitment to backchecking ensure that he is a reliable option for shutting down opponents' top lines. He can be a sneaky scoring machine for this team.

Simon Meier, C/LW, Penticton Vees (BCHL)

Simon Meier is currently playing in the BCHL for the Penticton Vees, where he’s made a name for himself with his offensive versatility. With a blend of speed and stickhandling, Meier can create plays on the rush and in tight spaces. His ability to play in all situations, from power plays to penalty kills, demonstrates his hockey IQ and adaptability. Known for his quick decision-making, he often catches defenders off guard with accurate passes or a well-placed shot.

Lars Steiner, F, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (QMJHL)

Lars Steiner is a skilled forward making waves in the QMJHL with the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies. Steiner combines speed, strength, and puck-handling skills to dominate in offensive situations. He excels at driving to the net and has shown a knack for scoring clutch goals, proving himself as a reliable finisher. His physicality allows him to win puck battles in the corners, and his tenacity ensures he’s often in the mix during key moments of the game. Steiner’s QMJHL experience provides him with a high level of competition, which will translate well into his role with the Swiss national team, where his scoring ability and grit can shine.

Jamiro Reber, C/LW, HV71 (SHL)

Jamiro Reber is currently honing his skills in Sweden with HV71, where he’s recognized for his elite hockey sense and smooth skating. Reber is a cerebral player who always seems one step ahead of his opponents, which is evident in his precise passing and ability to create space for himself and teammates. He’s also an underrated scorer, with a quick wrist shot that can beat goaltenders from a variety of angles. His experience in the Swedish league has refined his defensive game, making him a strong two-way player. Reber’s creativity and composure under pressure make him a potential difference-maker for Switzerland.

Matteo Wagner, LW, AIK J20 (J20 Nationell)

Matteo Wagner is developing in Sweden with AIK, where he’s been showcasing his versatility as a forward. Wagner is a relentless forechecker who excels at forcing turnovers and creating opportunities from his defensive effort. Offensively, he’s a smart player who knows how to find open ice and contribute as a secondary scorer. With his solid two-way game and experience in the Swedish hockey system, Wagner is expected to bring stability and energy to the national team.

Loris Wey, C, EV Zug U20 (U20-Elit)

Loris Wey is another forward from the EV Zug system, standing out with his impressive hockey IQ and playmaking skills. Wey thrives in tight spaces, often making pinpoint passes under pressure to set up scoring opportunities. His ability to read the game and anticipate plays makes him a dangerous presence in the offensive zone. While not overly physical, Wey uses his agility and stickhandling to evade defenders and maintain possession of the puck. As he continues to develop, Wey is likely to provide creativity and a calming presence to the Swiss offence, making him a key piece for the team’s success.

Defenders 

Nic Balestra, D, EV Zug (NL)

Nic Balestra is a dynamic and mobile defenseman who excels in transitioning the puck from the defensive zone to the offensive zone. His agility and high hockey IQ enable him to read plays and make smart decisions. In addition to his strong defensive play, Balestra contributes offensively, particularly on the power play with his accurate shot and crisp passing. His leadership on the blue line and Swiss league experience make him a cornerstone of the defense.

Jonah Neuenschwander, D, EHC Biel-Bienne (NL)

At just 15 years old, Jonah Neuenschwander has already made a significant impact on the international stage, becoming the first player in 24 years to compete in the IIHF World Junior Championship at his age. Standing 6'3" and weighing 181 lbs, he brings a physical presence to the team. Neuenschwander has a keen sense for positioning and a natural ability to score. His anticipation, ability to manage energy, and physicality make him a formidable force on both ends of the ice.

Timo Bünzli, D, GC Küsnacht Lions (SL)

Timo Bünzli adds a physical presence to Switzerland’s defense, excelling in battles along the boards and in front of the net. Despite his physical style, he is a smart player who makes calculated decisions. His heavy shot from the point can generate scoring chances, and he’s quick to step up in the offensive zone when needed. His reliable defensive play will be essential in shutting down opposing forwards.

Aris Häfliger, D, GDT Bellinzona Snakes (SL)

Aris Häfliger is a versatile defenseman who adapts to various roles on the team. With smooth skating and solid puck-handling skills, he contributes effectively at both ends of the ice. Häfliger’s ability to make quick decisions under pressure ensures his team maintains possession, while his versatility makes him valuable on both the penalty kill and the rush.

Ludvig Johnson, D, EV Zug (NL)

Ludvig Johnson is a solid, positionally aware defenseman who specializes in disrupting offensive plays. His defensive commitment is apparent in his ability to block shots and win key puck battles. His crisp outlet passes enable the team to transition quickly from defense to offense. While not flashy, Johnson’s consistency, hard work, and physicality make him an indispensable player for the team.

Gian Meier, D, Frölunda HC J20 (J20 Natinell)

Gian Meier has developed his game in Sweden’s competitive hockey system, where he has honed his puck-moving abilities and skating. His confidence with the puck allows him to contribute offensively, and his smooth skating helps him drive play from the back end. Meier is a dual-threat defenseman, capable of creating scoring opportunities while maintaining strong defensive play.

Leon Muggli, D, EV Zug (NL), drafted by the Washington Capitals

Leon Muggli is a promising young defenseman known for his ability to read plays and make quick, effective decisions. He is also unafraid to contribute offensively, using his vision to set up teammates and create scoring chances. Despite his youth, Muggli plays with maturity, showing confidence in his defensive responsibilities and offensive potential.

Nils Rhyn, D, EHC Basel (NL)

Nils Rhyn is a physical defenseman who thrives in the gritty areas of the ice, using his aggressive playstyle to lay hits and disrupt opponents. His commitment to clearing the crease and winning puck battles ensures his goalie has a clear line of sight. Offensively, Rhyn plays a simple, safe game, focusing on effective puck movement. His grit and determination will be crucial against tougher opponents.

Basile Sansonnens, D, Rimouski Océanic (QMJHL), drafted by the Vancouver Canucks

Basile Sansonnens is an effective skater and puck distributor who excels in transition play. His smooth skating and solid puck-handling skills make him a significant asset on special teams. He’s poised to contribute to Switzerland’s defense with his ability to move the puck quickly and efficiently, adding another layer of depth to the blue line.

Goalies 

Ewan Huet, G, Regina Pats (WHL)

Ewan Huet, the son of former NHL goaltender Cristobal Huet, is a skilled goalie for the Regina Pats. Known for his quick reflexes and ability to track pucks through traffic, Huet provides a reliable last line of defense. His ability to handle the puck and help his defensemen initiate breakouts adds an extra dimension to his game, making him a versatile asset for his team.

Christian Kirsch, G, Janesville Jets (NAHL), drafted by the San Jose Sharks

Christian Kirsch plays goalie for the Janesville Jets in the NAHL. His lateral movement and impressive glove work allow him to make crucial saves in high-pressure situations. Kirsch’s ability to stay calm and focused under duress will be essential for the Swiss team in closely contested games. His familiarity with North American ice surfaces provides an advantage in adapting to tournament conditions, and he is expected to challenge Ewan Huet for playing time, creating a competitive dynamic in the crease.

Elijah Neuenschwander, G, HC Fribourg-Gottéron U20 (U20-Elit)

Elijah Neuenschwander has been developing his game in Switzerland, where he’s impressed with his size and positional awareness. Standing tall in net, Neuenschwander effectively uses his frame to cover angles and make life difficult for shooters. As the youngest of the three goalies, he brings a fresh perspective and enthusiasm to the squad. While he may serve as the third option, his development and potential make him a crucial part of Switzerland’s goaltending pipeline.