Since his arrival in January, 19-year-old Richard Hartmann has impressed fans with a string of solid performances. After scoring his first Phantoms goal on Sunday, we caught up with him about his time at the Club so far.
Hartmann is a dual national, having split his junior career between Slovakia and Scotland. His breakout year in senior hockey was in 2022/23, where he notched 12 goals and ten assists in 25 games with the Dundee Comets in the Scottish National League.
He followed that up last term with a further 18 goals and 17 assists in 21 games for the Comets, leading his team in points in 2023/24.
He began this season back in Slovakia, with HK Skalica in the Slovakian U20 league, notching 21 points in 14 games.
After a short spell in Milton Keynes, Hartmann joined the Phantoms roster in January, and has become a favourite amongst fans for his committed, hard working performances.
“I have settled in well now and I am enjoying my time here. I’m just trying to do my job and make plays when I can!” Hartmann said.
He recently scored his first Phantoms goal in Sunday’s (23/02) game at the Romford Raiders, a feat he’s been aiming to hit since his arrival at the Club.
Hartmann said: “I finally scored! It felt amazing, I’ve been having a rough season so getting that goal definitely helps and hopefully more will follow!”
Despite his young age, Hartmann is a tough critic of his own performances and is hoping to add more points to his tally going into next year.
“The goal is definitely to add more points next season. I haven’t had the best year so next year with more confidence and experience In the league will come more goals and assists!” Hartmann said.
With plenty of time remaining this season and silverware to play for, the young forward is targeting trophies during his time with the WALDECK Peterborough Phantoms.
He was also keen to acknowledge the support of the Phantoms fans, who he enjoys playing in front of week in, week out.
“The fans are amazing, I love the support they give to us. They are loud and energetic, I love it!”
Hartmann and his teammates will be back in home action at Planet Ice Peterborough this Sunday when his former side, the Milton Keynes Lightning, come to town (5:30pm face off).
To secure your seat for Sunday’s local derby, click HERE!