The Czech Hockey Hall of Fame, located on Nekázanka Street in Prague, features iconic trophies and exhibits celebrating the nation’s rich hockey history. Officially reopened last May, just days before the World Ice Hockey Championships kicked off, the Hall invites hockey lovers to explore the sport's most cherished moments. Visitors first enter the "Golden Temple of Hockey," where historical plaques honoring past legends illuminate the space.<\/p>
According to Bedřich Ščerban, the Hall’s manager and former defenceman, this section gives insight not only to players but to pivotal events, such as the 1970 Canada Cup held in Montreal. The Hall recently welcomed new inductees like Petr Svoboda, celebrating his golden goal achievement at the 1998 Nagano Olympics, and the much-honored sports commentator, Petr Vichnar. To date, 153 members have received induction, underscoring the sportsmanship and legacy within Czech hockey.
Among the prime artifacts on display is the Golden Hockey Stick trophy, awarded yearly to the best Czech player. Ščerban humorously notes, "The Golden Hockey Stick weighs about 36 kilos, so it's actually not very easy to lift above your head," referring to the prestigious honor he received back in 1991.
Moving to the second section of the Hall, visitors can immerse themselves with interactive activities showcasing the history of Czech hockey. Ščerban mentions, “Thanks to cooperation with the National Museum, we have artefacts from the sport’s beginnings, dating from around 1911 to 1920,” including period-specific skates and protective gear. A particularly rare exhibit is a 1908 application by sports promoter Emil Procházka to establish the Czech Ice Hockey Association, which catalyzed the formal start of organized hockey in the region.
For those unable to visit Prague, the Hall offers access to digital exhibitions, broadening the reach of this collaborative effort to celebrate hockey's legacy.
Shifting from history to contemporary events, Pittsburgh Penguins superstar Sidney Crosby has been named captain of Team Canada for the upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off tournament set to take place from February 12 to 20, 2025, across Montreal and Boston. The three-time Stanley Cup winner expressed his gratitude for returning to the helm of Canada’s national team, stating, “I am grateful for the opportunity to again represent Canada on the international stage. It is an honour to be named captain for the 4 Nations Face-Off on a team with so many great leaders.”
Crosby previously captained Canada during the 2014 Sochi Olympics, leading the team to its second consecutive gold medal. Also joining him are notable alternate captains Connor McDavid and Cale Makar, poised to strengthen the squad’s chance of success.
The 4 Nations Face-Off marks the return of NHL players to elite international competition after years of absence, especially since Canada missed the high-profile 2018 Winter Olympics and the 2022 Games due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Crosby’s involvement brings excitement and anticipation for what’s considered as the closest event to a best-on-best men's tournament.
While Team Canada gears up with stellar players, Team USA is under the leadership of star Auston Matthews, who was designated captain for the tournament. Eschewing any risks for the upcoming competition, Finnish powerhouse Miro Heiskanen is sidelined with injury, placing additional pressure on the team to adapt without him.
Lastly, as the hockey world buzzes with anticipation for elite tournaments, Hollie Pearne-Webb, captain of Team GB’s women’s hockey team, recently visited Fitzwaryn School in Wantage. Pearne-Webb, who has earned both gold and bronze Olympic medals, shared her personal success story with students, instilling lessons about dedication and teamwork.
Pupils at the school engaged with Pearne-Webb through team-building activities, fostering skills like collaboration and communication, all facilitated by the support of Persimmon Homes, partnered with Team GB. Paul Curry, head of training for the developer, expressed contentment over the event, commenting, “It was really delightful to make this visit happen for the students—that staff show exceptional dedication supporting young adults to develop their independence.”
With such examples of success and mentorship from elite athletes, students at Fitzwaryn School received invaluable insight and encouragement, demonstrating the powerful impact sports can have on inspiring the next generation.