HC Kriens-Luzern adopts Füchse Berlin model for European growth

Swiss handball champions HC Kriens-Luzern are implementing a strategic development model inspired by the German club Füchse Berlin. Following their first national championship and debut in the Champions League, the club aims to establish long-term European success by combining high-profile international signings with internal talent development.

Under the leadership of head coach and former world star Andy Schmid, the club has already made significant investments. Recent acquisitions include former THW Kiel player Mykola Bilyk and Austrian pivot Lukas Herburger, who joined from Füchse Berlin. The club also recently moved into the new Pilatus Arena to support its growing ambitions.

Sports director Nik Tominec stated that the goal is to develop the club step-by-step. The strategy focuses on using established professionals to elevate the level of homegrown players, a method previously used to transition talents like Luca Sigrist and Gino Steenaerts to the Bundesliga.