With a new coaching staff, several high-profile additions and increased expectations, Rytíři Kladno are preparing for an exciting new season. Sporting Director Tomáš Plekanec reflects on the club’s summer moves and the ambitions driving the team forward.
Rytíři Kladno enter the new season with renewed ambitions, a strengthened roster and a new coaching staff led by Radim Rulík, who guided Czechia to the 2024 IIHF World Championship title.
Sporting Director Tomáš Plekanec believes the arrival of experienced coaches and several key additions has created a strong foundation for the club's future. Rulík will be joined by Marek Židlický and Ondřej Pavelec, forming a coaching group with extensive experience at both international and professional levels.
“We have the highest ambitions, but success will only come through daily work, training and results,” Plekanec said.
Kladno have also been active on the player market. The club added experienced defenseman Michal Kempný, Swedish blueliner Filip Westerlund, goaltender Dominik Pavlát and welcomed back former Kladno players Adam Kubík and Nicolas Hlava. Plekanec emphasized that the club focused on building a balanced roster with leadership, experience and competition at every position.
The future of Latvian forward Eduards Tralmaks remains undecided. According to Plekanec, the player and the club are in contact, but Tralmaks is still evaluating opportunities in North America. A final decision is expected during the summer.
While Plekanec avoided making bold predictions, he confirmed that Kladno aim to compete near the top of the standings and challenge for success in the playoffs.
“Our goal is to finish as high as possible, secure the best playoff position and compete for the championship,” he said.
The team will begin on-ice preparations in early August and will travel to Switzerland for a training camp, where they are scheduled to face German side Adler Mannheim and Swiss club HC Davos in preseason action.
Plekanec also highlighted the importance of a deeper roster, noting that internal competition and depth will be crucial throughout a long and demanding season.
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