Team History: Sparta is older than the Rangers, having been founded in 1909. The team has a small historical guide on their website if you want to check it out. Last season they were 12th out of 14 teams, which is bad but what is even worse is that they were seven spots below their cross-town rivals, Slavia Praha.
Arena: The Rangers faced off against Tampa at the O2 Arena - Slavia's home - and this time are four kilometers away at Sparta's home rink, the far older Tesla Arena. Tesla was opened back in 1962 - by comparison MSG opened in 1968 - and this place needs a renovation far, far worse than the Garden did. It sits about three thousand less (13,995 total) but they are some hard rocking, diehard fans who sing, sing and sing some more.Where They Are: Four games into their season. They stumbled out of the gates but are coming off of their lone win, a 6-2 trouncing of Pardubice on Tuesday.
Familiar Foes: A number of their players were drafted by NHL teams and several played in the AHL but just spent any real kind of time in the NHL - Petr Tenkrat. Tenkrat played a total of 177 games for the Ducks, Preds and Bruins. He has been in Europe since 2007 bouncing between the Extraliga, Elitserien (Sweden) and SM-Liiga (Finland). Tomas and Ivan Rachunek are the younger brothers for former Ranger Karel (who passed away in the Lokomotiv crash, RIP). Former Blue Jacket David Vyborny had played for Sparta for years but transferred to Mlada Boleslav this summer.
Who To Watch For: Petr Ton was their leading scorer last season with 36 points in 52 games but Tenkrat and Tomas Rachinek each are averaging a point per game so far. Alex Foster was the captain of the AHL's Toronto Marlies and signed to play in Prague this summer; he is the lone North American on the squad. Michal Sersen, a defenseman, played junior with Crosby in the Q - all the more reason to hate him.
What Can We Expect: Probably nothing like this, at least physically. You have to figure that Sparta will try to use the larger ice to their advantage. They can stretch the Rangers defense in the wider rink - just think how Michael Del Zotto was thrown out of position on a small rink, in this one he might end up in another country. But, given how impressed several of the Praha players were watching the Ranger practice, they may just sit back and get trounced 8-1 the way Bern was by the boys a few years back.
Peepin' Foreign Foes: HC Sparta Praha
In the world of ice hockey, there's a certain mystique that surrounds international clubs, especially those with a rich history and a passionate fan base. HC Sparta Praha, based in Prague, Czech Republic, is one such club that has left an indelible mark on the sport. In this article, we'll embark on a journey to discover the captivating story of HC Sparta Praha, its storied history, notable achievements, and the impact it has had on the international hockey landscape.
Table of Contents
Czech Republic: A Hotbed of Hockey
The Cultural Significance of Hockey
The Birth of HC Sparta Praha
HC Sparta Praha: A Glimpse into History
Early Beginnings and Growth
Success on the Domestic Front
International Impact and Renowned Players
Sparta Praha's Influence on Czech Hockey
Notable Players Who Donned the Sparta Jersey
HC Sparta Praha Today
Ongoing Challenges and Triumphs
The Passionate Fan Base
FAQs: Common Questions About HC Sparta Praha
1. Czech Republic: A Hotbed of Hockey
The Cultural Significance of Hockey
Ice hockey holds a special place in the hearts of Czechs. It's not merely a sport; it's a cultural phenomenon that has been passed down through generations. Families gather at rinks, and children dream of becoming the next great hockey star. The Czech Republic has produced a plethora of world-class players who have made their mark in the NHL and on the international stage.
The Birth of HC Sparta Praha
HC Sparta Praha, founded in 1903, is one of the oldest and most prestigious ice hockey clubs in Europe. It emerged during a time when ice hockey was still in its infancy, but it quickly established itself as a force to be reckoned with, setting the stage for a remarkable journey.
2. HC Sparta Praha: A Glimpse into History
Early Beginnings and Growth
The club's early years were marked by a passion for the sport and a commitment to excellence. Sparta Praha steadily climbed the ranks of Czechoslovak hockey, winning numerous domestic championships and earning a reputation for its competitive spirit and skill on the ice.
Success on the Domestic Front
HC Sparta Praha has a storied history of success in the Czech Extraliga, the country's top professional hockey league. The team's commitment to developing homegrown talent, along with strategic acquisitions, has led to multiple championships and a legacy of competitiveness.
3. International Impact and Renowned Players
Sparta Praha's Influence on Czech Hockey
The club's success has had a profound impact on Czech hockey. It has been a breeding ground for talent, producing players who would go on to represent the Czech national team with distinction in international competitions such as the IIHF World Championships and the Olympics.
Notable Players Who Donned the Sparta Jersey
Over the years, HC Sparta Praha has been home to some of the most iconic Czech hockey players. Names like Jaromir Jagr, Dominik Hasek, and Patrik Elias are synonymous with success in both European and North American hockey circles.
4. HC Sparta Praha Today
Ongoing Challenges and Triumphs
While HC Sparta Praha has faced its fair share of challenges in recent years, including increased competition from other European clubs, it continues to strive for excellence. The club remains a symbol of Czech hockey pride, and its commitment to developing young talent and competing at the highest level is unwavering.
The Passionate Fan Base
One of the most remarkable aspects of HC Sparta Praha is its passionate fan base. The team enjoys unwavering support from its loyal supporters, who create an electrifying atmosphere at the arena. The connection between the club and its fans is a testament to the power of hockey to unite people from all walks of life.
5. FAQs: Common Questions About HC Sparta Praha
Q1: What is HC Sparta Praha's biggest rivalry?
A1: The rivalry between HC Sparta Praha and HC Slavia Praha, both based in Prague, is one of the most intense and storied rivalries in Czech ice hockey.
Q2: How has HC Sparta Praha fared in recent international competitions?
A2: The club has consistently represented the Czech Republic in various European competitions, showcasing its competitiveness and talent on the international stage.
Q3: What is the future outlook for HC Sparta Praha?
A3: The future of HC Sparta Praha is shaped by its rich history, passionate fan base, and commitment to developing young talent. The club remains a powerhouse in Czech hockey and looks ahead to continued success.
HC Sparta Praha's journey through the annals of ice hockey history is a testament to the sport's enduring legacy and cultural significance in the Czech Republic. From its humble beginnings to its position as a European powerhouse, Sparta Praha has left an indelible mark on the international hockey landscape. The club's commitment to excellence and its passionate fan base continue to be sources of inspiration for hockey enthusiasts around the world.
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