Bratislava Capitals Add Hungarian Forward Benedek Tanko for 2026–27 Season

The Bratislava Capitals are pleased to announce the commitment of Hungarian forward Benedek Tanko for the 2026–27 European Union College Hockey League (EUCHL) season.

Tanko, an October 2007 birth year from Székesfehérvár, Hungary, brings international experience and an offensive track record to the Capitals. The 6-foot, 168-pound left-shot forward has developed through programs in Finland, Germany, Hungary and the United States.

Most recently, Tanko played for Norwich Hockey Club 18U AAA, where he enjoyed his strongest offensive season to date. During the 2025–26 campaign, he recorded 20 goals and 20 assists for 40 points in 50 games. He also produced four goals and seven assists in 11 UT1HL 18U games and added four goals in four playoff games.

Tanko has also represented Hungary internationally, including six games with Hungary U17 during the 2023–24 season, recording four assists.

A European Player Returning to Europe

The move to Bratislava represents an important next step in Tanko's development as he returns to Europe after two seasons playing hockey in North America.

His career has already taken him across several hockey environments. Before arriving in the United States, Tanko played in Finland, Germany, Hungary and Romania, giving him experience with different styles and systems of hockey.

For the Capitals, Tanko adds another young European forward with the potential to contribute offensively while continuing his development in a college hockey environment.

“Benedek is exactly the type of player we want in Bratislava,” said Joseph Kolodziej Capitals Hockey Director. “He has experience in several different hockey countries, he has demonstrated that he can produce offensively, and he is still developing. We believe the EUCHL and our program provide him with an excellent opportunity to take the next step.”

Tanko will join the Capitals as the organization continues building its roster for the 2026–27 EUCHL season, combining North American and European players in a program designed to provide both competitive hockey and a college education.

Tanko at a Glance

• Name: Benedek Tanko
• Position: Forward
• Birth Date: October 11, 2007
• Birthplace: Székesfehérvár, Hungary
• Height: 6'0"
• Weight: 168 lbs
• Shoots: Left
• 2025–26: Norwich Hockey Club 18U AAA
• 2025–26 Statistics: 50 GP, 20 G, 20 A, 40 PTS
• 2025–26 UT1HL: 11 GP, 4 G, 7 A, 11 PTS
• 2025–26 UT1HL Playoffs: 4 GP, 4 G 

Welcome to Bratislava, Benedek.

The next chapter starts in the Capital.