» Hockey's Future to present video from the 2008 NHL Draft   » Johnson named WHL Player of the Week   » Beleskey named OHL Player of the Week   » Nugent-Hopkins first pick in the WHL Bantam Draft   » Riendeau named CHL Player of the Week   

Articles Archives

Czech Republic Archives

12-25-2007 - 2008 WJC: Hosts Czech Republic try to put 2002 behind them

After another dismal performance during last year’s tournament, where they once again ranked fifth, the Czechs feel the pressure to perform this time.

11-22-2007 - Q&A with Tomas Kudelka

Defenseman Tomas Kudelka is a rookie in the Ottawa organization this year.

09-22-2007 - Q&A with Michael Frolik


At the Florida Panthers rookie camp, Hockey’s Future had an opportunity to sit down with 2006 first-round draft pick Michael Frolik.

05-26-2007 - Neuvirth inconsistent at Memorial Cup

Neuvirth's road to the NHL includes overcoming the language barrier and consistency problems.

02-10-2006 - Q&A with Jiri Hudler

A prodigy in the Czech Republic, playing the Czech Extraleague as a 15-year-old and leading his team in scoring as a 17-year-old, 22-year-old Detroit Red Wings prospect Jiri Hudler is one of the league leaders in AHL scoring after a trying 2004-05.

02-09-2006 - Klepis looks for consistency in Hershey

With good skill, Jakub Klepis hasn't put it all together into an offensive package for the Hershey Bears.

02-06-2006 - Q&A with Vojtech Polak

Dallas Stars 2003 second round draft pick Vojtech Polak played a couple of games in the Czech Extraleague as a 15-year-old, established himself as an Extraleague regular as a 17-year-old, and three years later he’s establishing himself as a sniper willing to round out his game.

01-14-2006 - Q&A with Lukas Kaspar

San Jose Sharks 2004 first round draft pick Lukas Kaspar is making his second major transition in as many seasons. After making the move from the Czech Republic to the Ottawa 67’s of the OHL, Kaspar is making the adjustment to pro hockey in the AHL this season with the Cleveland Barons.

07-27-2005 - Czech Top 10 prospects for the 2005 draft

Goalie Ondrej Pavelec, defenseman Jakub Vojta and forward Martin Hanzal could all be first round picks on Saturday in Ottawa.

01-02-2005 - Czechs beat Finland 3-0, move on to semifinals

In the first quarterfinal played in the Ralph Engelstad Arena on January 1, the Czech Republic beat Finland 3-0 in a game where no significant emotion was shown.

12-31-2004 - 2006 eligible Michael Frolik turns heads at WJC

Sixteen-year-old Czech winger Michael Frolik, a likely top pick in 2006, is turning heads as the youngest player in the 2005 WJC.

11-14-2004 - Russians claim second spot after defeating the Czechs at U20

Despite a big game by Czech goaltender Tomas Sturala, Russia won their second game of the tournament and finished second behind host Sweden in the U20 tournament.

11-12-2004 - Finland defeats the U20 Czechs in tight game

Youngsters Jesse Joensuu and Michael Frolik stood out in this tight, but not overly entertaining game in the Under-20 tournament in Sweden.

11-12-2004 - Impressive Swedes beat Czechs in U20 tournament

With continued strong goaltending and defense and creative forwards, the Swedes comfortably defeated the Czechs 5-0 in the Under-20 tournament in Sweden.

11-11-2004 - Czech 2006 prospects: Jakub Sklenar

An in-depth look at Czech 2006 eligible prospect Jakub Sklenar, a right wing in the Slavia Praha system.

10-30-2004 - Czech 2004 prospects update

A look at the Czech prospects selected in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft playing the 2004-05 season in the Czech Republic.

10-24-2004 - Czech 2005 prospects: David Kuchejda

An in-depth look at Czech 2005 eligible prospect David Kuchejda of Ceske Budejovice.

10-15-2004 - Czech 2005 prospects: an early look at 10

Ten Czech 2005 prospects, starting with Vladimir Sobotka.

09-28-2004 - Draft eligible prospects in the Czech Extraleague

A look at six undrafted prospects who have a chance to perform in the Czech senior Extraleague in 2004-05.

09-05-2004 - Offseason moves of Czech junior national team players

Three Czech junior national teams players have changed their respective Czech teams this summer.

08-08-2004 - Czech 2005 prospects: Top 15 for the Entry Draft

Defenseman Jakub Kindl, who will likely join the OHL Kitchener Rangers in 2004-05, tops the list of 2005 eligible Czech prospects.

08-01-2004 - Czech 2004 draft review

Twenty-one Czech players were selected in the 2004 Entry Draft, with Rostislav Olesz the highest pick at No. 7 overall.

06-18-2004 - Czech 2004 draft preview, Part 1

The first part of the Czech 2004 draft preview, focusing on prospects who will likely be picked on the first day of the draft.

05-28-2004 - Czech 2004 prospects: season review Part 3

A statistical update and a season recap for the top Czech 2004 eligible prospects.

05-21-2004 - Czech 2004 prospects: season review Part 2

A statistical update and a season recap for the top Czech 2004 eligible prospects.

05-14-2004 - Czech 2004 prospects: Season Review Part 1

A statistical update and a season recap for the top Czech 2004 eligible prospects.

04-22-2004 - 2004 Prospects: Martin Rygl

Ranked 114th among European skaters by the Central Scouting Bureau, Martin Rygl is a 2004 eligible defenseman.

04-22-2004 - 2004 Prospects: Q&A with Marek Schwarz

Marek Schwarz is the top rated 2004 eligible European goaltender by Central Scouting in their mid-term rankings.

04-15-2004 - Radek Smolenak joins the Czech Under-18 team

Injuries to two forwards on the active roster forced the Czech coach to recall 2005 eligible Radek Smolenak from the reserve list.

04-06-2004 - Preview of the Czech Under-18 WJC team

An in-depth look at every member of the Czech Under-18 WJC team.

03-18-2004 - Czech 2004 Prospects: Bedrich Kohler

Passed over at the 2003 NHL Entry Draft, Bedrich Kohler made impressive gains this season in order to establish himself as a decent 2004 prospect. He's ranked 99th among European skaters.

03-09-2004 - Czech 2004 prospects: Jan Zapletal

The Czech Republic has been churning out good NHL prospects for many years, and this year is no different. One of the rising stars for the 2004 NHL Entry Draft is Czech defenseman Jan Zapletal.

02-28-2004 - Czech League update: Drafted players

Update on the 2003-04 seasons of 10 Czech players whose rights are or were owned by NHL clubs.

02-02-2004 - Foreign prospects in the Czech junior/midget Extraleague

A look at some top prospects, three Slovakians and one Slovenian, playing in the Czech Republic. One is 2004 eligible.

01-24-2004 - Czech 2004 prospects: Stanislav Balan

One of the most talented Czech 2004 eligible prospects, Stanislav Balan's stock is on the rise with his strong play this season.

01-17-2004 - Three Czechs in the 2004 CHL Top Prospects game

Vaclav Meidl, Petr Pohl and Jan Steber will compete in the CHL Top Prospects game, a precursor to the 2004 Entry Draft.

01-03-2004 - Czech 2004 prospects: Adam Lukacovic

Ranked 18th among Czech skaters by the CSB Preliminary rankings, Adam Lukacovic is a 2004 eligible defenseman.

01-01-2004 - Marek Schwarz turns heads at the WJC

Czech starting goaltender Marek Schwarz, only 17, is performing admirably at the WJC.

12-25-2003 - Czech WJC preview

Player by player preview of the Czech U-20 team for the upcoming World Junior Championships.

12-13-2003 - Czech 2004 prospects: Marek Curilla

An in-depth look at Czech 2004-eligible center Marek Curilla.

12-13-2003 - Czech roster for the U18 Viking Cup

The Czech National U18 Team is holding a week-long camp to prepare for the U18 Championship in April in Belarus.

12-11-2003 - Czech Under-20 preliminary roster

Examination of the Czech roster for the upcoming WJCs, including an interview with Coach Hadamczik.

12-05-2003 - Czech 2005 prospects: Tomas Stryncl

A talented offensive defenseman, Tomas Stryncl is a solid 2005 prospect.

11-30-2003 - Czech 2006 prospects: Antonin Drbohlav

One of the best Czech 1988-borns, Antonin Drbohlav is making a name for himself as a solid 2006 eligible prospect.

11-25-2003 - Czech 2006 prospects - Michal Kazatel

One of the most talented Czech 1988 born prospects, Michal Kazatel, is on the way to being an above-average 2006 eligible prospect.

11-21-2003 - Czech prospects: Roman Stasa

Interview with Czech prospect Roman Stasa, who is looking for a place on the Under 16 Czech National Team.

11-14-2003 - Czech 2005 prospects: Ondrej Pozivil

A close up look at Czech prospect Ondrej Pozivil, eligible for the 2005 draft.

11-02-2003 - Czech 2005 prospects: Tomas Kudelka

One of the top Czech 2005 eligible players, Tomas Kudelka is a promising two-way defenseman.

10-27-2003 - Czech 2004 prospects: Michal Psurny

The first half of the twin brother duo, Michal Psurny is a 2004 eligible prospect.

10-27-2003 - Czech 2004 prospects: Roman Psurny

The second half of the twin brother duo, Roman Psurny is a 2004 eligible prospect.

10-23-2003 - Czech 2004 prospects: Roman Polak

A player with strong attributes to succeed in North American style of play, Czech defenseman Roman Polak is eligible for the 2004 NHL Entry Draft.

10-13-2003 - Czech 2005 prospects: Martin Husicka

Diminutive forward Martin Husicka may not be a top prospect for the 2005 NHL Entry Draft, but has great skill.

10-06-2003 - Czech 2004 prospects: Vaclav Meidl

Vaclav Meidl, a new import addition to the Plymouth Whalers, is one of the best Czech 2004 eligible forwards.

09-28-2003 - Czech 2005 prospects: Petr Kalus

An in-depth look at a 2005-eligible Czech center, Petr Kalus.

09-13-2003 - Czech 2004 prospects: Zdenek Bahensky

An in-depth look at forward Zdenek Bahensky, eligible for the 2004 draft.

07-21-2003 - Czech 2004 prospects: Jan Steber

Profile of Jan Steber, 2004 draft eligible prospect, who will play for the Halifax Mooseheads of the QMJHL in 2003-04.

07-14-2003 - Czech prospects in the 2003 CHL Import Draft

Review and scouting report on the 22 Czech prospects taken in the 2002 CHL Import Draft.

06-30-2003 - Czech draft review

A review of the eighteen Czech players taken in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft.

06-16-2003 - Czech 2003 Prospects: Matej Trojovsky

Profile on one of the toughest European players in the CHL, Regina Pats' Matej Trojovsky.

06-02-2003 - Future prospects: Czech youth hockey awards

On May 16th, 2003 there was an awards ceremony held where the top players from the Czech Junior Extraleague and Czech Midget Extraleague got their trophies. Check out who were the winners, with comments on each of them.

06-01-2003 - QMJHL Review and Preview

A look at each of the teams in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, how their 2002-2003 season finished, which players are expected to return in 2003-2004, which draft picks the team holds for the league's annual draft, and what to expect from the clubs in 2003-2004.

05-15-2003 - Czech 2004 prospects: Rostislav Olesz

One of the best prospects to come out from the Czech Republic in the last few years, Rostislav Olesz may challenge for the first overall pick in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft.

05-08-2003 - Czech 2004 prospects: Matej Kos

A bit of a sleeper among the Czech 2004 eligible prospects, Matej Kos is making a name for himself in the Czech midget Extraleague.

05-05-2003 - Under-18 WJC: Czech Republic Team Review

Here is a closer look at the performance of every Czech player at the Under-18 WJC. Check out for some interesting info on the Czech prospects and stats on every player.

04-28-2003 - Czech 2003 prospects: Martin Foldyna

One of the lesser known prospects, Martin Foldyna, is one of the toughest Czech players eligible for the 2003 NHL Entry Draft. This article details his history and accomplishments so far.

04-23-2003 - Czech 2004 prospects: Lukas Vomela

A late 1985 born defenseman, Lukas Vomela is one of the faster rising Czech prospects for the 2004 draft. Have a look at a detailed article on this player!

04-11-2003 - Under-18 WJC: Team Czech Republic preview

Here is a complete preview of the Czech Under-18 team, which will compete at the 2003 Under-18 WJC in Russia. Have a look at profiles on every player on the team!

04-03-2003 - Kladno won Czech Junior Extraleague

After a five-game battle Kladno juniors have beaten Trinec juniors in the championship series of the Czech junior Extraleague. Have a look at a recap of this series!

03-18-2003 - Czech 2004 prospects: Jan Dusatko

A bit hidden among the top Czech 1986 born players, Jan Dusatko is looking to prove that he is on the way to a coveted prospect. Have a look at a detailed article on this player!

03-11-2003 - Czech 2003 prospects: Patrik Valcak

Virtually unknown even in the previous season, Czech forward Patrik Valcak has earned a reputation of one of the better Czech prospects eligible for the 2003 NHL Entry Draft in rapid time.

03-05-2003 - Czech 2005 prospects: David Kuchejda

David Kuchejda is one of the most talented Czech forwards eligible for the 2005 NHL Entry Draft. A smart, skilled forward is a regular with the Czech Under-16 team, have a look at a detailed article on this player!

02-25-2003 - Czech 2004 prospects: Karel Hromas

An aggresive two-way forward, Karel Hromas is one of the top Czech prospects for the 2004 NHL Entry Draft. Have a look at a detailed article on this player!

01-29-2003 - Czech 2003 prospects: Radim Hruska

A bit hidden among all the Czech 1984 born prospects, Radim Hruska has stepped out of the shadow recently and now is regarded as a possible 2003 draft pick. Have a look at a detailed article on this player!

01-21-2003 - Czech All Star Game of Junior and Midget Hockey recap

On January, 18th, 2003, there was in the Czech city Brno the first All Star Game of Junior and Midget Hockey held. Lots of NHL prospects took part in this event, have a look at a recap of the game!

12-28-2002 - Czech 2003 prospects: Martin Lucka

Ranked 9th among Czech skaters by the CSB Preliminary Rankings, Martin Lucka is a very talented defenseman who has both size and skill. Have a look at a detailed article on this player!

12-24-2002 - 2003 WJC Preview: Team Czech Republic

After two consecutive world champion titles from the WJC the Czechs took a general step back last year at their home WJC, played in the Czech cities Pardubice and Hradec Kralove. The seventh place and a lackluster performance meant a disappointment for the...

12-19-2002 - Czech 2003 prospects: Josef Hrabal

Ranked 6th among Czech skaters by the CSB Preliminary Ranking, Josef Hrabal is one of the best 1985 born defensemen playing in the Czech Republic.

12-18-2002 - Jakub Klepis - The Penalty Killer

25 players and 3 goalies are on the preliminary roster of the Czech squad for the 2003 World Junior Championship in Canada. One of the forwards who has a secure spot on the roster is Jakub Klepis, Ottawa Senators’ 1st round pick of the 2002 NHL Entry Draft. Check out his complete profile here.

12-05-2002 - Czech 2004 prospects: Martin Bucek

Vitkovice juniors forward Martin Bucek is a blend of size, sniper instincts and toughness and he is the top goalscorer of the Czech Under-17 team so far. Have a look at a detailed article on this player!

12-04-2002 - Czech out the whaler - Martin Cizek

Check out the detailed article on Martin Cizek who was a member of the Czech squad winning the bronze medal at the U-18 WJC 2002. He is currently in his rookie season in Plymouth Whalers. Look at some more information, about this defenseman, that you did not know before

11-07-2002 - Slovakia and Czech Republic meet up for the first time this year

Big rivals met for the first time this year and it was very a interesting game; especially for those who watch hockey prospects. Slovakia, defending world champion, came to Plzen with a extremely unexperienced

11-06-2002 - Czech 2003 Prospects: Jakub Cech

Havirov seniors goaltender Jakub Cech is the top Czech goaltending prospect for the 2003 NHL Entry Draft. Already a holder of one senior Extraleague record, Jakub Cech brings lots of talent to the draft pool.

10-30-2002 - Czech 2004 prospects: David Krejci

A possible future CHL player, center David Krejci from the Trinec junior team is rapidly making a name for himself as a serious 2004 NHL prospect with his elite skill and talent. Have a look at a detailed article on this player!

10-23-2002 - Czech goaltending prospects: Tomas Sturala

Czech 2003 eligible goaltender Tomas Sturala is rapidly making a name for himself as a possible draft pick for the next NHL Entry Draft. Have a look at a detailed article on this athletical goalie!

10-15-2002 - Buffalo Sabres prospects: Jakub Hulva

Picked by the Buffalo Sabres in the 4th round, 108th overall in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft, Jakub Hulva boasts a great package of hockey talent and skill. Have a look at a detailed article on this player!

10-01-2002 - Czech 2005 prospects: Tomas Pospisil

HC Ocelari Trinec right winger Tomas Pospisil is one of the most talented Czech 1987 born players. A core player of the Czech Under-16 team, Pospisil is a rare blend of skills, smarts and offensive output. Have a look at a detailed article on this player, which will be a top prospect for the 2005 NHL Entry Draft!

09-24-2002 - Czech 2005 prospects: Jakub Dusek

The new Czech Under-16 team played its first games and some players have already turned the heads. As a first glimpse, have a look at a detailed article on the likely 2005 top prospect, Jakub Dusek!

09-19-2002 - Jan Blaton - skill over size

When hearing of the Czech 2003 prospect Jan Blaton, you notice two words - skill and size. Plenty of the first and lack of the latter. Have a look at a detailed article on this player!

09-08-2002 - Czech 2003 prospects: Martin Krayzel

A bit hidden among the other Czech 1985 born prospects, Martin Krayzel is quickly making a name for himself as a legitimate 2003 prospect. Have a look at a detailed article about this player!

09-01-2002 - Czech 2004 prospects: Ladislav Smid

Arguably the best Czech 1986 born defenseman, Ladislav Smid will be a blue-chipper for the 2004 NHL Entry Draft. Have a look on an article about this very talented player!

08-25-2002 - Czech 2004 prospects: Lukas Kaspar

A late 1985 born HC Litvinov forward, Lukas Kaspar is one of the best players of the new Czech Under-18 team. Have a look at a detailed article about this player!

08-15-2002 - Ladislav Kouba - the Rebel in the Coyotes system

The Phoenix Coyotes have made Czech-born forward Ladislav Kouba their 7th round pick, 216th overall at the 2002 NHL Entry Draft. Have a look at a detailed article about this player!

07-11-2002 - Czech 2003 prospects - Lukas Pulpan

Not overly big, but incredibly skilled, defenseman Lukas Pulpan is considered as one of the top Czech 2003 prospects. Check out a detailed article on a player who can very well be one of the smallest and smartest NHL defensemen in the future!

07-07-2002 - Czech players in the 2002 CHL Import Draft - Part 2

The second part of the review of all Czech players selected in the 2002 CHL Import Draft, featuring the last 15 players picked. If you're interested in new Czech imports, have a look at this series of profiles!

07-03-2002 - Czech players in the 2002 CHL Import Draft - Part 1

Here is a review of the first 15 Czech players selected in this year's CHL Import Draft. Check out the comments on every of them, with rating their possibility to come over, in this article!

06-27-2002 - Czech Republic Draft Review

Here is a complete review of all 26 Czech players taken in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft, including the profiles of the players. Check out for some interesting info!

06-19-2002 - Jan Kubista- feisty, hard working and smart!

This season Czech junior Extraleague was won by Pardubice as you could read earlier on. One of the permanent members of the Pardubice roster was winger Jan Kubista. Who represented Czech Republic at the U-18 World Championship in Slovakia. He is a solid hit-and-go player who has the potential to be at least 2nd round pick on the 2002 draft!

06-19-2002 - Czech Republic draft preview

Here comes a draft guide for the Czech 2002 NHL Entry Draft eligible prospects, with profiles of both junior and overaged prospects. This is an article which features the top 31 Czech players who may be selected in this year's draft! Have a look!

06-16-2002 - Martin Lojek - The Big One

At 6'5'', 221 lbs. Pardubice Jr. defenseman Martin Lojek is one of the biggest prospects eligible for the 2003 NHL Entry Draft. Check out the story of this player whose stock will definitely take a rise with his expected CHL arrival!

06-14-2002 - Petr Vrana - Not a CHL but a NHL prospect

Petr Vrana, the scoring champion of the 2002 World Hockey Challenge, is a projected first-rounder for the 2003 NHL Entry Draft. Have a look at a detailed article about this incredibly talented forward!

06-14-2002 - Watch out! Ondrej Nemec on the ice!

Check out the story of the most talented Czech defender. Playing whole season in the Czech Extraleague for Vsetin as a regular member and later one of the key players scoring 5 goals in his rookie season. None of the Czech defenders have ever been that successful! His talent just cannot be overlooked and his potential cannot be ignored.

06-04-2002 - Czech 2002 prospects: Tomas Linhart

Czech defenseman Tomas Linhart, ranked 22nd among Euro skaters in the CSB Final Ranking, is a rare blend of size, skill and toughness. Have a look at a detailed article about this player!

05-31-2002 - Czech overagers in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft

Nearly every year there are some overaged Czech players picked in the NHL Entry Draft. It doesn't look as this year could mean a change, have a look at profiles of three Czech overagers who all have a chance to be picked in the upcoming draft!

05-24-2002 - Czech 2003 prospects: Tomas Csabi

The late 1984 born forward Tomas Csabi is one most talented Czech 2003 eligible prospects. Have a look at a detailed article about this sized sniper!

05-22-2002 - Czech youth hockey awards show recap

Last Friday there was in Brno, Czech Republic, an awards ceremony where the top players from the Czech Junior Extraleague and Czech Midget Extraleague got their trophies. Check out who were the winners, with comments on every of them!

05-17-2002 - Jiri Cetkovsky - A Czech darkhorse of the draft

Hulking Czech forward Jiri Cetkovsky has upgraded his draft stock tremendously during the last months. He has solid chances to be selected in the June's NHL draft. Check out a detailed article about this prospect!

05-15-2002 - Martin Vagner - A new Czech QMJHL star

Hull Olympiques Czech defenseman Martin Vagner is the highest ranked QMJHL player for the 2002 NHL Entry Draft. Have a look at a detailed article about this prospect!

05-10-2002 - Czech 2004 prospect Petr Pohl - the story of a sniper

Flashy Vitkovice midgets winger Petr Pohl is among the top Czech 2004 prospects. He can develop into one of the top NHL goalscorers of future. Check out the story!

05-07-2002 - Miloslav Horava- determination the key to success

Check out the story of still undrafted 1982 born Czech prospect! A son of a famous father, former New York Rangers defender. Will this forward make it to the NHL as well?

05-07-2002 - Czech 2002 prospects: Jan Velich

Jan Velich is one of top Czech 1984 born defensive forwards and a member of the bronze-medal winning Czech Under-18 team. Check out a detailed article about a player who has solid chances to be drafted in June!

05-02-2002 - Under-18 WJC: A look back at the Czech team

Here is a recap of every player's performance on the Czech Under-18 WJC team. Some of them can become NHL stars, so have a look!

04-30-2002 - Kamil Kreps - the new soldier in the Battalion

Brampton Battalion forward Kamil Kreps is one of the top Czech prospects for the 2003 NHL Entry Draft. Check out a detailed article about this talented forward!

04-25-2002 - Czech 2002 prospects: Jakub Koreis

Ranked 8th among Euro skaters in the CSB mid-term rankings, Czech power forward Jakub Koreis is considered as a likely first-rounder for the 2002 NHL Entry Draft. Check out a detailed article on him!

04-23-2002 - Under-18 WJC: Czech Republic's Final Group games recap

The Under-18 WJC is now over and the Czechs won the elusive medals, the bronze ones. Check out the recaps of the three Czech Final Group games!

04-19-2002 - Under-18 WJC: Recap of the Czech Republic's preliminary round games

Here is a recap of all five Czech preliminary round games, including battles against Canada and Russia. Have a look!

04-15-2002 - Pre-draft profile - Tomas Fleischmann

Check out the story of a member of the Czech U-18 selection on the World Junior Championship in Slovakia!

04-11-2002 - Under-18 WJC: Czech Republic team preview

Here is a complete preview of the Czech team, which will take part in the Under-18 WJC. You'll find here all the needed info, including profiles of all the players and the game schedule. Have a look!

04-05-2002 - Trinec won Czech Midget Extraleague

Top two Czech midget teams, Trinec and Zlin battled each other in the final series of the Czech Midget Extraleague. Check out the recap of the series, where also serious NHL prospects of the future participated!

04-04-2002 - Pardubice won Czech Junior Extraleague

After an interesting final series Pardubice juniors defeated the Ceske Budejovice juniors in the Czech Junior Extraleague. Have a look at a recap of the series and NHL prospects participating at both sides!

04-02-2002 - Czech 2002 prospects: Jakub Langhammer

Currently ranked 33rd among European skaters, forward Jakub Langhammer is one of the most talented 1984 born Czech players. Have a look at some detailed info about this prospect!

04-01-2002 - Interview with Jiri Hudler

Despite his age Jiri Hudler is one of the key figures of Extraleague champion HC Vsetin. Jiri is one of the biggest talents and he should be drafted very high in the upcoming draft. Vsetin was weakened by bad management and in the summer many players left. This was....

04-01-2002 - Marian Havel - Another Czech Giant

Vancouver Giants' forward Marian Havel is definitely one of the top Czech 1984 born prospects. Here is the story of the previous career of a 2002 NHL Entry Draft gem...

04-01-2002 - Czech 2002 prospects: Michal Barinka

Michal Barinka is one of the best defensemen of the Czech Under-18 team. A blend of size, toughness and skill and also a serious 2002 NHL Entry Draft prospect. Have a look for some detailed info!

03-26-2002 - Top Czech Under-17 team players: Vojtech Polak

The Czech Under-17 team captain Vojtech Polak is one of the players, considered as first round picks for the 2003 NHL Entry Draft. Have a look at detailed info about this player!

03-19-2002 - Florida Panthers prospect interview: Filip Novak

New York Rangers defensive prospect Filip Novak was kind enough to answer some questions about his previous career, life and dreams. Have a look what he has to say!

03-16-2002 - 2004 prospect Lubomir Stach - skill over size

Smallish defensemen don't appear too often in the NHL Entry Draft. Coming 2004, Czech defenseman Lubomir Stach could change this fact a bit...

03-11-2002 - 2004 prospect story: Pavel Rusek

Havirov midgets forward Pavel Rusek is one of the top players of the Czech Under-16 team this season. Not necessarily a top prospect, but Pavel Rusek can surprise many coming the 2004 NHL Entry Draft...

03-08-2002 - Czech goaltending prospects: Marek Schwarz

Marek Schwarz, this season selected as the Best goaltender of the Czech midget Extraleague in the regular season, is definitely the top 1986 born Czech goaltender. Check out the story of a player who is one of the most talented Czech goaltending prospects in the last decade...

03-05-2002 - Czech goaltending prospects: Lukas Mensator

Lukas Mensator, the starter of the Czech Under-18 team, is enjoying an outstanding season on the international scene and looks like a lock to be selected in June's NHL Entry Draft. Check out the story of a goalie who is the top Czech 1984 born netminder!

03-01-2002 - 2004 prospect story: Jan Danecek

Jan Danecek is the only 1986 born player to play a Czech senior Extraleague game. Check out the story of a tremendous forward talent, who can become one of the top prospects for the 2004 NHL Entry Draft!

02-21-2002 - Jakub Lev - The lion in the net

Here is a profile of one of the top young Czech goaltenders. The 1986 late-born goalie Jakub Lev has the tools of a regarded NHL prospect for the 2005 NHL Entry Draft...

02-19-2002 - Michal Gulasi - The Tough One

Here is a profile of a rugged 1986 born Czech defensive prospect. Michal Gulasi is a regular with the Czech Under-16 team and a serious 2004 NHL prospect...

02-13-2002 - Czech Republic Under-16 team at Four Nations Tournament

The top European 1986 born players met for the first time at the Four Nations Tournament. Check out how the young Czechs were doing!

02-06-2002 - Czech Republic at Viking Cup

Here is a recap of the Czech Under-18 team games at the Viking Cup, held in Manitoba this year...

02-05-2002 - A look at the Czech Under-17 team

Here is a closer look at the top Czech 1985 born players, serious prospects for the 2003 and 2004 NHL Entry Draft. Check out some info about the next bunch of future hockey stars, like Rostislav Olesz, Vojtech Polak, Jiri Drtina...

02-04-2002 - Czech Republic at World Hockey Challenge

Here is a recap of all Czech games at the World Hockey Challenge of the Under-17 teams, including a short info about the best Czech players...

01-28-2002 - Roman Vondracek- 2003 eligible prospect

On of the many late born 1984 players who still has one year and a half before being potential draft pick of one of the NHL teams. Right now Roman Vondracek is a player of the junior team of Sparta Praha but his history as far as different teams are concerned is very rich. He is a member of the U-18 national selection which has participated on the Viking Cup taking place in Canada. Roman played good games there where for most of the time he was a first liner and scored 1 goal.

01-21-2002 - Czechs in the CHL Top Prospects Game

Four Czech players were selected to perform in this year's CHL Home Hardware Top Prospects Game. Check out the profiles of those players!

01-18-2002 - Robin Kovar - The Giant prospect

Robin Kovar has his WHL career hampered by injuries. But it would be a mistake to overlook this prospect. Check out the story of his previous career!

01-11-2002 - Michael Kolarz: A more distant future of hockey

If you want to have a look at a 2005 NHL Entry Draft prospect, here is one. Michael Kolarz, the Vitkovice midgets rookie and an underage player of the Czech Under-16 team...

12-21-2001 - Interview with Lubomir Stach

Potential 2004 draftee Lubomir Stach still has a long way to go before he can be satisfied with himself. He is still very young (only 15) but when you see him play he seems very mature. This offensive D-man seems more as forward with his excellent technical skills....

12-21-2001 - Czech Monitor

With the Czech Extraliga adjourned for the Christmas break, the best players will be representing the Czech Republic at the Baltic Cup and the U20 World Junior Championships. A perfect time to update the progress of our monitored prospects

12-18-2001 - Josef Vavra - a wildcard for the draft

Ranked 15th among Czech players by the CSB Preliminary Rankings, Josef Vavra isn't a blue-chipper but also a player who can't be overlooked. If you also don't want to overlook him, check out the story of his previous career and life...

12-12-2001 - 2004 prospect interview: Vaclav Meidl

2004 prospect Vaclav Meidl kindly answered some questions about his previous hockey career, dreams and future. Check it out! Vaclav Meidl, a darkhorse for the 2004 NHL Entry Draft, is not so well known as his Under-16 teammates...

12-05-2001 - Czech Extraliga Prospect Report

will track the exploits of selected prospects plying their trade in the Czech Extraliga....

12-04-2001 - 2003 prospect interview: Petr Vrana

One of the top 2003 Czech prospects, Havirov juniors forward Petr Vrana, talks about his previous hockey career, dreams and other interesting things. Check out!

12-02-2001 - Czech WJC team will need CHL help

After the final tournament of the Under-20 teams in Finland it is obvious that the Czech Under-20 team will need some help from overseas. Check out who has the biggest chances of joining the team and how the roster could look like...

11-23-2001 - A look at the Czech Under-16 team

Some bright gems with a promising NHL future appear on the Czech Under-16 team, consisting of 1986 born players. Check out who is it!

11-16-2001 - Sparta Praha after 20 rounds recap

This is the first recap from the officially declared best European hockey league which is the Czech Extraleague. One of the teams that has a pretty good chance of winning the title is Sparta Praha. Club with an excellent backround and enough money to buy good players with very perspective future. Sparta’s roster is loaded with stars this season, their names won’t say much to North American hockey fans but in the Czech Republic they are well known.

11-15-2001 - 2004 prospect interview: Petr Pohl

Vitkovice midgets right winger Petr Pohl, one of the stars of the Czech Under-16 team and a prospect for the 2004 NHL Entry Draft answered some questions about his previous hockey career, future plans and dreams. Check out!

11-14-2001 - Czech Republic - Switzerland Under-16 teams Game 3 recap

Last Sunday finished the three-game series between the Czech and Swiss Under-16 teams. Check out the recap of this game including some player and coach comments!

11-13-2001 - Czech Republic - Finland Under-19 teams game recap

Czech and Finnish teams, consisting of players who weren't selected to play for the Under -20 team play a three-game series in the Czech Republic. Have a look at the recap of the Saturday's game, there could be some hidden gems on those teams.

11-11-2001 - Czech Republic - Switzerland Under-16 teams game recap

Czech and Swiss Under-16 teams met for the first time in a series of three games that are going to be played this weekend. Check out the recap of this game including the coache's and player's comments!

10-29-2001 - Czech NHL rookies: Martin Erat

Czech forward Martin Erat has made a succesfull jump straight to the NHL from the WHL. Check out Martin's way to the Nashville Predators team!

10-22-2001 - Pavel Brendl: A tale of a scorer

Pavel Brendl, one of the brightest Czech prospects, finally broke into the NHL. Check out how was his way to the dream!

10-12-2001 - Is Petr Kanko playing illegally ??

Petr Kanko is a wanted man for Sparta. Petr Kanko, a top czech prospect for this years draft, is playing for Kitchener illegaly. Kanko still....

10-11-2001 - Tomas Netik - ATP Champion race or Hockey World Championships?

Czech hockey is presenting another talent. This time it’s Tomas Netik, the undrafted 19 year old player (1982-04-28) of HC Sparta Praha. Many of you will question Sparta....

10-08-2001 - Top prospects lead Vsetin in the Czech Extraleague

The HC Vsetin team suffered a lot of quality players losses before this Extraleague season. This created space for 2002 top prospects Jiri Hudler and Ondrej Nemec, who both surprise with a great play at the beginning of the season!

10-05-2001 - Czech Republic Under-20 team at Five Nations Tournament

At the beginning of September, the Czech Under-20 team, defending World Champions, had one of the last....

10-01-2001 - Interview with Vlastimil Koci

Vlastimil Koci, along with Jaromir Sindel the coach of the Czech Under-16 team, answered some questions about selecting the players for the youngest junior national team and about the 1986 born players in general. Check out!

09-17-2001 - Czech Extraleague preview

The league of current World Champions, the Czech Extraleague just began with the first games of the schedule. Here is an outlook on every team and the prospect who could make an impact this season...

08-18-2001 - World Junior Cup: Czech Republic-Russia game recap

The top 1984 born Czech and Russian prospects, staying in Europe for the next season, met each other in a very interesting match of the World Junior Cup. Check out the game recap with some comments on the play of the Czech prospects!

08-09-2001 - The Flyers can fly high with Jiri Dopita

To many hockey fans this had to be a pleasant surprise. After years of refusing to come over, Jiri Dopita signed with the Flyers. At 32 years, Jiri's very mature game can bring the Flyers team, already stocked with top-notch players, to an even better level...

07-21-2001 - Czech CHL Import Draft - Part 2

Here is the last part of the article, covering Czech players, selected in the 2001 CHL Import Draft!

07-10-2001 - Czech CHL Import Draft - Part 1

Every summer, after the NHL Entry Draft, the CHL has its Import Draft. This event has every year a Czech flavor, check out some thoughts on the players selected this year!

06-30-2001 - Draft review - Czech players

The 2001 NHL Entry Draft saw a record of 31 Czech players being selected. Have a look at some comments on every of those players!

06-19-2001 - Draft preview - Czech players

The 2001 NHL Entry Draft is going to determine the future teams of lots of players. Check out some thoughts on the Czech players who are going to be selected, round by round!

06-13-2001 - Penguins Covet Two Czechs At Draft

Craig Patrick, General Manager of the Pittsburgh Penguins, approaches the entry draft with two young Czechs in his sights.

05-31-2001 - Tomas Plekanec- 14th in the CSB European ranking

Let me introduce to you this amazingly talented player who seems to be rather underestimated and a bit in the background in the experts eyes even though he has already proved his qualities. ..

05-18-2001 - 2001 Prospects: Martin Podlesak

Listed at 6'6'', Czech forward Martin Podlesak is among the tallest players eligible for the 2001 NHL draft. Follow the story of this former Sparta Praha junior star.

05-16-2001 - Daniel Volrab- 56th position in the European CSB ranking

Looking closer at the current junior team of HC Sparta Praha we can spot some real talent there. Among those players born in 1983, Daniel Volrab is the top player. He is in the 56th position among European players (according to the CSB latest ranking). ..

05-11-2001 - Ales Hemsky - a story of a scorer

Ales Hemsky was known as a prospect already some years ago back home in the Czech Republic. In the QMJHL he blossomed into one of the scorers, who will be feared in the future by many goalies...

04-27-2001 - Under-18 WJC: A look back at the Czech Republic team

The Under-18 WJC is over now and everybody knows that the Czechs are without a medal again. But let's have a closer look at the players, who played there, and their performance. We'll find some future NHLers...

04-25-2001 - Under-18 WJC: Czech Republic playoff games

The Czech team, on the third place of their group, had to face very dangerous opponents on the way to the glory. They are again without a medal, but the games were very exciting!

04-20-2001 - Under-18 WJC: Czech Republic preliminary round games

The preliminary round games are over and the Czech team finished on the third place in the Group B. Check out how the young Czechs came to this place!

04-12-2001 - Under-18 WJC: Czech Republic Team Preview

The Under-18 WJc begins this Thursday in Finland. The Czech guys are going there with hopes for a medal. Check out some info about every player on the team!

04-11-2001 - Tomas Duba- Tomas who?

Czech goaltender Tomas Duba is certainly well known by the scouts these days but it is not that long ago when most of you would have said “Tomas who?“ Due to his excellent performance in the 2001 Junior World Championship his name is fast becoming a house-hold word ...

04-09-2001 - HC Slavia Praha champions of the Czech Midget Extraleague

HC Slavia Praha and HC Ocelari Trinec midgets met in the finals of the Czech midget Extraleague. Check out some thoughts about the "series of shutouts"!

04-06-2001 - Pardubice win Czech Junior Extraleague

In the final series of the Czech junior Extraleague young Pardubice players met the youth of Vsetin. This was a very interesting series, with lots of scoring...

04-01-2001 - 2002 prospect interview: Marek Chvatal

HC Ocelari Trinec juniors defenseman and a 2002 prospect Marek Chvatal was kind enough to answer some questions about his previous career, future and dreams. Check out!

03-29-2001 - Czech NHL rookies - Petr Tenkrat

This player is really a late-bloomer. Even if it wasn't too likely, he got his chance to play in the NHL. And he made the most of it...

03-17-2001 - Jiri Novotny - a darkhorse of the draft

Among the Czech prospects for the upcoming draft, there is no higher ranked player than Jiri Novotny. His story is a story about the mixture of grit and a great hockey talent...

03-08-2001 - Vaclav Nedorost - an avalanche of talent

It looks like the Czech talent Vaclav Nedorost became a wrong surname. Nedorost, meaning non-grown in Czech, has no signs of a small frame or small talent. In fact, this guy is the future star of the Colorado Avalanche...

03-01-2001 - Czech Republic Under-16 team at Four Nations Tournament

The 1985 born guys playing for the Under-16 teams had their first major tournament, the Four-Nations Tournament, held in Yaroslavl, Russia. The Czechs won this tournament and some players have really shown great promise and can become Czech hockey stars someday...

02-27-2001 - Petr Kanko-“no troubles, no problems”

One of the many talents of Czech hockey. He is not a very well known player but in his age group (16, born 2-7-1984) it is not unusual. He is a potential 2002 draft pick. ...

02-23-2001 - Czech Republic Under-17 team at Four nations tournament

One of the tops of the season for the Under-17 teams was in Valkeakoski, Finland. The young Czechs proved that they have a strong year in 1984 born players...

02-22-2001 - Czech Republic Under-18 team at Four Nations Tournament

The Czech Under-18 team had the last chance to face the opponents from the top hockey countries before the Under-18 WJC. And the Czechs showed that they can be dangerous...

02-16-2001 - Czech Republic Under-20 team at Five Nations Tournament

The brand new Czech Under-20 team started the season which will conclude at the WJC played in front of the home crowd in the Czech Republic at the Five Nations Tournament, held in Fussen, Germany...

02-12-2001 - Czech NHL rookies - Pavel Kolarik

Not many people believed that this player will ever play in the NHL. Not even Pavel Kolarik himself...

01-27-2001 - Czech players at the CHL Top Prospects game

The Home Hardware CHL Top Prospects game is going to take place in Calgary in early February. This article features all five Czech players who will participate at this event!

01-19-2001 - Czech Republic at World Hockey Challenge

It's already some time since the World Hockey Challenge tournament finished, but let's check out how were the young Czechs doing!

01-07-2001 - WJC Final Game Recap

The last game of the WJC. The quest for gold. Czech Republic and Finland, winners of their groups, met in this contest. It was a pleasure to watch those two teams fight for gold!

01-06-2001 - Czech Republic vs. Sweden WJC Semifinal Game Recap

It's semifinal time. One of the two games was the game between the Czech Republic and Sweden. Check out who won this defensive battle and will play for gold!

01-05-2001 - Czech Republic vs. Slovakia WJC game recap

The last game for the Czech team in the Group A at the WJC was the game against Slovakia. Check out the comments on a battle of two nations who lived together for a long time!

01-05-2001 - Czech Republic vs. Switzerland WJC Quarterfinal Game Recap

The quarterfinals are here. The winning team of the Group A, the Czech team, had to face Switzerland on its way to glory. Check out how the Czechs slipped into semifinals!

12-30-2000 - Czech Republic vs. USA WJC game recap

This game decided who will win the Group A at the WJC. Check out how were the teams doing!

12-29-2000 - Czech Republic vs. Sweden WJC game recap

Stats and comments on the first game of the Czech Under-20 team at the WJC against Sweden...

12-29-2000 - Czech Republic vs. Kazakhstan WJC game recap

Here is the recap of the second game of the Czechs at the WJC, a blowout win over Kazakhstan!

12-24-2000 - Czech Republic WJC roster, schedule

Here is the complete roster of the Czech Under-20 team, which is in Moscow by now, with comments on every player!

12-19-2000 - Czech NHL rookies - Roman Simicek

Another part of the series covering the Czech NHL rookies. This time it is Pittsburgh Penguins center Roman Simicek...

12-12-2000 - Czech NHL rookies - Petr Svoboda

Here is another part of the series covering Czech NHL rookies. This time it's the future anchor of the Leafs defense, Petr Svoboda...

12-11-2000 - Czechs invite 8 CHL players to WJC camp

The preliminary Czech roster for the upcoming WJC has been annouced and 8 players playing in the CHL are supposed to take part, including two NHLers...

12-06-2000 - Czech NHL rookies - Milan Kraft

Another part of the series covering Czech NHL rookies. This time it's the future leader of the Pittsburgh Penguins, Milan Kraft...

12-01-2000 - Michal Sivek-a rising star

Michal Sivek is considered to be one of the biggest talents of Czech hockey (1998 draft 29th position). Not only is he very intelligent and clever but is down to earth and he is very polite...

11-29-2000 - Recap of the tournaments of the Czech Under-20 and Under-18 teams

This article covers the tournaments, in which the Czech Under-20 and Under-18 teams participated in November and how they were doing...

11-22-2000 - Recap of the tournaments of the Czech Under-16 and Under-17 teams

In November all of the junior national teams participate in various tournaments. Check out how the youngest Czech teams are doing, the Under-16 and Under-17 teams!

11-15-2000 - Czech NHL rookies - Josef Vasicek

Second part of the series covering Czech NHL rookies of the 2000 - 2001 season. This time it's Carolina Hurricanes center Josef Vasicek.

11-08-2000 - Czech NHL rookies - Martin Havlat

The first part of the series covering all Czech NHL rookies in the 2000-2001 season. Starting with Ottawa Senators' standout prospect Martin Havlat!

11-01-2000 - A game to watch

In the Czech Zepter hockey cup, teams let the young prospects play the roles of the team leaders to enable the elder players some time to relax. But those games are no scrap. In fact, they show the stars of the future. I saw the game between Litvinov and Ceske Budejovice, showing 3 possible future NHLers!

10-25-2000 - Jan Bohac waiting for his chance in Czech Elite league

Fans of the Ottawa Senators have probably asked themselves several times who this 2000 3rd round pick (the 87th position) is. let me introduce him to you...

10-16-2000 - Leaving home...Final Part

This is the final part of the series about Czech players who left Europe for a chance to play in the CHL. Check out the comments on the rest of the Czech players on the CHL Import Draft list!

10-04-2000 - Jiri Hudler - next superstar on the scene?

A young star is rising in the Czech Elite league. He is unknown to many hockey fans right now, but it's certain he'll be well-known in two years. By the time the 2002 NHL Entry Draft rolls around, he'll be a household name because he is an absolute can't-miss prospect. Find out who the new Jagr really is!

09-27-2000 - Dopita turns down Panthers - a possible NHL star will not be discovered

Czech national team star Jiri Dopita decided to stay in Vsetin, his hometown, instead of playing for the Florida Panthers. He is possibly the best player not playing in the NHL, so it's for sure that a possible NHL star will remain undiscovered. Check out how good he is!

09-18-2000 - The Czech Under-20 team coming off a slow start

The Under-20 teams schedule began with a Five-nations tournament held in Omsk, Russia. It was a fierce battle, check out some of my thoughts about the Czech hockey team's play!

09-12-2000 - Leaving home...Part 2

Here am I again with the second part of the series about Czech born hockey prospects drafted this summer in the CHL Import draft. Check the comments on six new players!

09-01-2000 - Czech CHL import draft, part 1

Within the last hot days of the summer you can find a number of Czech-born prospects aboard the planes heading to North America. They left their families, friends, and Czech style of hockey to take the first step on their way to their dream. Everyone is chasing the dream to play in the NHL but those players chose to play in the CHL first...

06-07-2000 - Sparta's promising prospects

Of the hundred European players expected to be drafted this year, approximately 20 of them will be Czech players. The most highly rated Czech player is Vaclav Nedorost followed closely by Jan Bohac. But there are many more talented players who were n

01-05-2000 - JWC – FINAL DAY

The Czech Republic won the goldmedal after a penalty-shootout in the most boring game ever played in the Skellefteå Isstadion. Congratulations to the Czechs for winning...

01-05-2000 - Rinkside Reflections (Playoffs)

The two semi-finals (USA-Czech Republic; Canada-Russia) were both even and entertaining. The Czech Republic got a very early goal by Michal Sivek against Team USA, and then showed off their defensive skills to keep the americans from tying the game...

01-02-2000 - Viking Cup 2000 (Finland vs Czech Rep.)

Finland VS Czech Rep. A hard nosed big body czeching game!

12-29-1999 - JWC - Group A Day 3

All of those complaining of low scoring in the NHL wouldn’t have had a very good time in Skellefteå today. A grand total of three goals was scored in the two hours of hockey that was played, but still the games were exciting and the quality of play was the highest so far in the tournament...

12-27-1999 - WJC - Group A Day 2

Tie, and tie again. The Czechs and the Americans skated to a 2-2 tie in the first game of the day, and the Finns and the Slovaks tied 1-1 after Finland almost won the game with a shot that hit the crossbar in the final second of the game...

12-26-1999 - JWC - Group A Day 1

After the first day of any competition there shouldn’t be any dramatic conclusions drawn, but often there are signs that point in certain directions...

11-17-1999 - Czech it Out - Vaclav Nedorost

Another potential first rounder from the Czech Republic is Vaclav Nedorost, a rising star in Czech Hockey. Playing on the Czech under 18 National team, Vaclav is showing scouts all over the world the skills that he possesses and is definitely making a name for himself...


HF Quick Navigation