The Title and a Dignified Representation of the Country Are the Main Goals of the Czech National Team

The Czech U20 junior national team is gradually approaching the peak of its preparations for the Ball Hockey World Championship. That’s why we reached out to their coach, Jaroslav Pavlík, to find out how one of the favorites for gold is getting ready for the tournament. We learned that the preparation is proceeding according to plan, and the final touch for the junior team will be a match against the Czech Republic A team, which is definitely a perfect climax to their preparations!

What stage of preparation is your team currently in for the championship in Poprad?

Due to the ongoing playoffs, our team is gradually coming together, and the peak of preparation will take place on June 21 in Pardubice.

Are you satisfied with the preparation so far? Is everything going according to plan?
Yes. We are following the set schedule in the national team cycle and are satisfied with the preparation so far.

What are you primarily focusing on in preparation for the championship – tactics, teamwork, speed, fitness?
All the aspects you mentioned are an integral part of our preparation.

Two years ago, the Czech juniors missed the finals after a shootout loss in the semifinals. Have you included improving this element of the game in your preparation, or do you consider shootouts more a matter of luck?
We are not specifically focusing on this game element, but we are looking for players suited for this special skill.

What style of play would you like to showcase at the championship in Poprad?
We would like to present ourselves with the classic Czech ball hockey school – that means a fast, combination-based game.

When will the final roster be announced?
The final roster will be announced on June 21 in Pardubice, after the game against the Czech Republic A team.

Are you planning any warm-up matches before the championship?
Yes, we plan to play 1 or 2 preparation games.

The tournament will take place in the town under the High Tatras. Do you have any plans for a longer stay in Slovakia to offer the players a kind of bonus for representing the country and maybe explore the Tatras up close?
I personally have a very warm relationship with the Tatras. I've spent many vacations there with my family and am really looking forward to Poprad. On the other hand, we must take into account the significant financial costs associated with the national team. Therefore, we will arrive at the championship venue on Tuesday, July 1. If time allows, we would definitely like to take the players on a half-day trip to the Tatras.

What is the goal of the Czech national team at the championship in Poprad?
As a team in the world’s elite, we can’t think of anything other than winning the world championship. Just as important for us, however, will be the quality of our performance and dignified representation of our country.

Photo credit: Tomáš Laibl (hokejbal.cz)