LATEST | Two-time Olympian and long-time defenceman suddenly passes away at 48

We have some sad news to report on as over the weekend, long-time European defenceman and a participant at two Winter Olympics, Leo Insam, has passed away at the age of 48.

Insam spent the majority of his professional career in Italy playing for Gherdeina, Asiago, Milano and HC Bolzano. He spent one season in Austria with EC-KAC in 1996-97 and two seasons in Germany with Dusseldorfer EG between 1997 and 1999.

Internationally, Insam represented his nation, Italy, at six World Championships as well as two Winter Olympics, in 1994 and 1998. In six games at the Winter Olympics, he recorded one assist, while tallying five points in 35 games at the World Championship.

Our thoughts are with Insam's family and friends at this difficult time.