Tomáš Kroupa Ahead of the Junior World Championship: “I Believe We Will Represent Our Country with Respect, Determination, and Boldness”

We’re Building a Team That Won’t Shy Away from Any Challenge

Tomáš, how excited are you for the Junior World Championship in Hradec Králové?

I’ve been excited ever since I found out where it would take place. Not only because I’m from Hradec Králové, but also because the quality of these events in the Czech Republic is, in my opinion, extremely high. Ever since I’ve been involved in ball hockey, I’ve wished for the World Championship to be held in my hometown – and being a part of it is simply amazing.

I don’t take it for granted, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be involved. It feels like the cherry on top of the work we all do throughout the year. I believe the championship will go well for all Czech teams, and we will build on the success of previous years’ national squads.

In Žilina, you served as team manager for both Czech squads. Will that be the case again this year?

Yes, my role hasn’t changed since last year – I’m responsible for both U16 squads throughout the entire preparation period. The difference is that I’ll be joined by one more person before the championship to help fully support all players and organizational aspects. During the tournament, there will be a lot going on simultaneously, and we want to give our best.

How is the player selection progressing? Do you already have a clear vision of the team’s shape?

The selection process runs throughout the entire year – we have a very strong base of players born in 2009 and 2010. From the very first camps, we’ve been evaluating not just their playing skills but also their character to work toward an ideal final roster agreed upon by the whole coaching staff. For the April camp, we’ll bring a narrower selection for both U16 teams, from which the final World Championship roster will be chosen.

Our Main Emphasis Is on Complete Focus

What are your expectations for this year’s U16 squad?

As I mentioned, these birth years are very strong. I can sense great determination and focus from the players – their clear goal is to win. We trust them, and it’s clear they trust us too, which is incredibly important. They’ll want to perform at their best – for their club coaches, families, and everyone supporting them.

We’re building a team that won’t back down from any challenge, and I expect our opponents will have a tough time. The tournament will be physically and mentally demanding – our job is to create the best conditions for the boys.

How involved are you in the day-to-day functioning of the U16 team?

How involved? Well, I do whatever needs to be done. (laughs) My role is essential – I’m in charge of organizing all the preparation events, administration, logistics, and the World Championship itself for this category. It’s my job and a reflection not just of me, but of everyone on the field and on the bench.

There’s a big responsibility, but I’m very satisfied with how our staff functions. We have a clear hierarchy by role, but nobody plays power games – we all just do what needs to be done, even when it’s outside of our job descriptions.

One of the head coach’s conditions when forming the staff was that everyone must be a coach – so that we can substitute for each other when needed. I’m grateful for that. I’d also like to thank all members of the staff and players who make my job so much easier. I try to give back as much as I can.

You must discuss with the coaches what you'll emphasize most in the players this year. What qualities do you think are essential?

Yes, we’ve been discussing that all year. We have a clear idea of how we want our players to represent themselves at the Junior World Championship. Each player will have a defined role in the team. There isn’t just one key trait – every player excels in something different, and together it can lead to success.

Our main emphasis is on complete focus – every minute, on and off the field. We need mutual trust, team sacrifice, and support for one another. We are one team with one goal, and that’s how we must approach this challenge. I believe we will represent Czech ball hockey, our country, and each other in a balanced way – with respect, determination, and boldness – so that we enjoy the experience and feel proud not only of the result but especially of the team afterward.

Lastly, do you have a message for the players, coaches, or fans?

I’d like to wish all the players and coaches a successful and healthy end to the season so that we can all meet in June in Hradec Králové. There, we’ll fight with all we’ve got to achieve success and take home as many unforgettable memories as possible.

Tomáš Kroupa is leading his squad with one clear goal in mind. Photo credit: Jaroslav Soukup