The Czech Republic’s Under-20 Squad
The Czech Republic has assembled a competitive under-20 squad for a four-team summer tournament taking place in Vierumäki, Finland. This roster features ten athletes who have already been selected in the NHL Draft, including standout defenseman Radim Mrtka, who was picked ninth overall by the Buffalo Sabres this summer.
Key Players
Alongside Mrtka, the team includes fellow defenseman Vladimír Dravecký and winger Adam Novotný, both born in late 2007 and eligible to enter the draft for the first time in 2026. Notably, the Czech team does not include any 2008-born players, such as winger Šimon Katolický, who remain eligible for Under-18 competitions and are gearing up for the upcoming Hlinka Gretzky Cup.
Match Performance
In their first match on Sunday, the Czechs suffered a narrow defeat against Finland A, losing 3-2 in overtime. They are set to face Finland B on Monday. Following the departure of the Finnish teams for the World Junior Summer Showcase, the Czechs will have two additional matches against Switzerland before concluding their trip.
Tournament Structure
In this tournament, the teams consist of two Finnish sides—designated as A-team and B-team—who will each go up against both the Czech and Swiss junior national teams.
Player Roster
The Czech roster features a diverse group of players, including goaltenders Adam Ebenstreit from Slavia Praha, Jakub Milota from Cape Breton in the QMJHL, and Ondřej Štěbeták from the Portland Winterhawks in the WHL. Defenders include Tomáš Galvas of Liberec, Martin Švec from Pardubice, and several others across various leagues, showcasing a blend of talent aimed at future professional opportunities.
The forward lineup features notable names such as Štěpán Hoch, Vojtěch Čihař, and Petr Sikora, among others, each representing clubs from different leagues and potentially eyeing NHL prospects.
Coaching Staff
As for the coaching staff, Manager Otakar Černý and Head Coach Patrik Augusta lead a group that also includes assistant coaches Robert Reichel and Pavel Trnka, as well as goaltending coach Martin Láska.
Related News
In related news, Adam Novotný‘s decision to join the OHL has left a notable impact back home in the Czech Republic, particularly as he is expected to be one of the top prospects for the 2026 NHL Draft. Meanwhile, the selection of Vladimír Dravecký Jr., a dual citizen with connections to both Czech and Slovak heritage, has sparked discussions leading up to this summer’s Hlinka Gretzky Cup.
