In the spring, there was a big halo around it, when Pardubice announced that they had agreed on a five-year contract with the twenty-four-year-old Kondelík, even though he still had a year left on his contract with Motor. According to the agreement between the two clubs, he really should have played it all in the south of Bohemia, but in the last few days things have taken a rapid turn and everything is different.
The 2-meter striker is not doing very well in the new season, so far he has recorded only a goal and three assists. And since the East Bohemians wanted Kondelík a lot, a suitable compensation was decided between the clubs. In the end, thirty-six-year-old Tomáš Zohorna became her. An experienced national team striker, who also fell short of expectations this season (2+2).
Another world champion to the party! 👑
In exchange for Tomáš Zohorna, Jáchym Kondelík comes from České Budějovice. Welcome to Dynamo, Kondel! 🔴⚪️🔵 pic.twitter.com/X6nvA6L71q
— HC DYNAMO PARDUBICE (@HCPCE) October 25, 2024
“We certainly didn’t want to settle for an average player, we were only looking for someone who has the potential to immediately help Motor. And Tomáš Zohorna can definitely be such a player,” Motor’s sports manager Jiří Novotný explained the reasons for the exchange.
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ADJUSTMENT: HC Energie Karlovy Vary vs. Banes Motor No. Budejovice 1:2 ppVideo: Tipsport Extraliga / BPA
Kondelík started for České Budějovice at noon on Friday for the match in Karlovy Vary (the guests won 2:1 in extra time). Even before it started, he knew that it was his last year in the Motor jersey and that immediately after the match he would pack his things and not return to the south of Bohemia, but to a new address in Pardubice.
In exchange, Motor gets 115-time representative Tomáš Zohorna, who started for the national team at four World Cups and two Olympic Games. And the Dynamo management admits that saying goodbye to one of the symbols of the club’s history, who won two championships with Pardubice, was not a one-time decision.
“We know it will resonate with a lot of fans. It was a difficult decision. Zohy is one of the biggest legends in the club’s history. That will not change, and we appreciate him very much for his services and approach,” said Petr Sýkora, sports director of the Pardubice club.
Dynamo already received offers for the transfer of the oldest of the three brothers during the summer. That’s when it swept them off the table. “We wanted him to finish the season here. At the beginning of the year, Zohy came to us saying that he would like to have a significant workload in matches and if that is not the case, he would like to go elsewhere on a short-term loan to be ready for the playoffs. This is one of the main reasons why we later reconsidered our position,” Sýkora describes the development of the situation with Zohorna, who recorded 589 extra-league starts and 300 Canadian points for Dynamo.
There were several variants in the game, but Zohorna ended up in Dynamo after 12 seasons. “In the end, we decided to activate the plan to rejuvenate the staff earlier. Tomáš wants to continue his active career even after the end of the current season, when his contract with Dynamo was supposed to expire. His steps would subsequently lead outside Pardubice. That is why we greatly appreciate the fact that Zohy agreed to the exchange. He is a great player and a heartthrob,” added Sýkora.
“It is not easy to leave the city where I have spent most of my career and I am here at home. However, I don’t blame the Dynamo management. It has been very accommodating to me several times. They gave me the opportunity to return from Russia and be at the birth when my wife was pregnant. I was able to spend the following months at home. After my next trip abroad, it gave me the opportunity to come back and fight for the title for Dynamo,” Zohorna says, not blaming Pardubice for anything.
But he does not hide his disappointment. “I’m sorry it didn’t work out. It was my dream to end my career in Pardubice with the cup over my head. But I believe that sooner or later the boys will succeed. Above all, I would like to thank all my teammates, members of the implementation team and other employees of the club for all these years, and the biggest thanks goes to our Dynamo fans, the best fans in the country, who have always supported us and created the best atmosphere for us,” added Zohorna.
In Budějovice, they are excited about getting Zohorna in exchange for Kondelík. “He is an extremely experienced player and leader, he can be very unpleasant for opponents. And we may have been missing exactly that type of striker. That’s why I believe that it will help us especially at a time when we are not doing exactly as we imagined,” Novotný let himself be heard.
Both traded players should make their first appearances for their new clubs on Sunday. Zohorna against Třinac, Kondelík against Olomouc.
And watch out, Tuesday promises a very spicy spectacle! Kondelík will return to České Budějovice. But already as an opponent in the Dynamo jersey…
Photo: Michal Kamaryt, CTK
Jáchym Kondelík with the gold medal for the world champion
Welcome to the Wild World of Hockey Transfers: The Pardubice Shuffle!
Ah, spring! A time for blooming flowers, birds singing, and those delightful transfer announcements we just love to dissect! This year, it seems the spotlight is back on HC Dynamo Pardubice. They’ve agreed on a five-year deal with the twenty-four-year-old Jáchym Kondelík, despite him having a year left on his current contract with Motor. Yes, you heard it right! It’s like going to a buffet and piling your plate high with all the appetisers, and then realizing you’re allergic to half of them!
The Rollercoaster of Performance
Now, Kondelík, bless him, hasn’t exactly set the ice on fire this season. With just a single goal and three assists, it seems as though he might be riding the struggle bus all the way to the finals. Meanwhile, the East Bohemians weren’t going to let a mere dip in form stop them from acquiring him. And so, they’ve negotiated a ‘suitable compensation’ – Tomáš Zohorna. Yes, the seasoned veteran who has been on as many international trips as a travel blogger.
Another world champion to the party! 👑
In exchange for Tomáš Zohorna, Jáchym Kondelík comes from České Budějovice. Welcome to Dynamo, Kondel! 🔴⚪️🔵
The Exchange: Old Guard Meets New Blood
Now let’s break this down. Motor has managed to snag Zohorna, a player with more accolades than I have shoes! We’re talking about a 115-time national representative who has danced around the world at four World Cups and two Olympic Games. Oh, you know, just the usual. Motor’s sports manager Jiří Novotný mentions they didn’t want “average.” Nope, they wanted someone who could shake things up. “Tomáš Zohorna can definitely be such a player.” Talk about lofty expectations!
The Big Goodbye
But wait! It isn’t all smooth sailing in the land of hockey. Zohorna’s farewell is like losing a beloved pet. You’re happy for him, but also devastated. The club’s sports director, Petr Sýkora, admitted that letting Zohorna go was harder than explaining to your parents why you’ve decided on a career in interpretive dance. “It will resonate with a lot of fans,” he says. You bet it will! Fans get attached to players like I get attached to a good Netflix series!
Personal Reflections
As Zohorna reflects on his leaving, it’s all very touching! “It’s not easy to leave the city where I have spent most of my career,” he said, sounding a bit like a character in a romantic novel. But credit where credit’s due! He thanks everybody involved. It’s always the players and the fans who end up with our hearts, isn’t it?
Meanwhile, Back at the Farm
In Budějovice, they’re buzzing about Zohorna joining the ranks. Novotný is optimistic about the acquisition: “He can be very unpleasant for opponents.” Well, let’s hope the opponents have packed their emotional support cushions then because things are going to get bumpy!
What’s Next?
Both players are scheduled to make their debuts for their new teams soon. Can you feel the excitement? It’s like waiting for the next Avengers film! Not to mention, Kondelík will even be returning to his old stomping grounds, but this time as a foe! Talk about a plot twist!
Conclusion
So, here’s the skinny: In the world of hockey, deals are made, hearts are broken, and every game can turn into an emotional rollercoaster. Let’s hope these players deliver what the fans deserve – thrilling entertainment, drama larger than life, and who knows, perhaps even a few incredible goals! After all, isn’t that why we tune in week after week?
And there you have it, folks! A perfect summary of the drama unfolding in Pardubice! Now, grab your popcorn and settle in for the next thrilling chapter!
In a surprising turn of events this spring, Pardubice made headlines by officially sealing a five-year contract with the promising twenty-four-year-old Jáchym Kondelík. This development came despite the fact that Kondelík still had a year remaining on his existing contract with Motor České Budějovice. Although the agreement suggested he would continue his career in the picturesque region of southern Bohemia for another season, recent negotiations have significantly altered the course of his career.
The towering 2-meter forward has struggled to find his footing in the current season, managing to secure only one goal and three assists so far. Having been a highly sought-after player for the East Bohemians, the two clubs had to negotiate a fair compensation, leading to the decision that thirty-six-year-old Tomáš Zohorna would make the switch to Motor. Zohorna, an experienced national team striker, also faced challenges this season, contributing 2 goals and 2 assists.
Another world champion to the party! 👑
In exchange for Tomáš Zohorna, Jáchym Kondelík comes from České Budějovice. Welcome to Dynamo, Kondel! 🔴⚪️🔵 pic.twitter.com/X6nvA6L71q
— HC DYNAMO PARDUBICE (@HCPCE) October 25, 2024
“We certainly didn’t want to settle for an average player; we were only looking for someone who has the potential to immediately help Motor. And Tomáš Zohorna can definitely be such a player,” explained Motor’s sports manager Jiří Novotný, emphasizing the club’s commitment to securing talent that could impact their performance right away.
Kondelík began his day on Friday as he suited up for České Budějovice to compete in a match against Karlovy Vary, which ended in a 2:1 victory for the visitors after extra time. He was already aware that this match would mark his last in the Motor jersey, as he planned to move to his new home in Pardubice immediately after the game.
In return for the transfer, Motor received the seasoned Zohorna, who boasts an impressive record of 115 caps for the national team, including participation in four World Cups and two Olympic Games. The Dynamo administration acknowledged the emotional weight of parting ways with Zohorna, a long-standing figure who contributed to two championship wins with the club.
“We know it will resonate with many fans. It was a difficult decision. Zohy is one of the biggest legends in the club’s history. That will not change, and we appreciate him very much for his services and approach,” remarked Petr Sýkora, sports director at Pardubice, recognizing the legacy Zohorna leaves behind.
Dynamo had considered several offers for Zohorna over the summer but chose to keep him for the season. “We wanted him to finish the season here. At the beginning of the year, Zohy expressed a desire for significant playing time, stating his preference to seek a short-term loan if that wasn’t possible. This was a pivotal factor that led us to reconsider our position on his transfer,” Sýkora added, reflecting on how negotiations evolved around Zohorna’s future with the team.
Ultimately, after twelve seasons with the club, Zohorna agreed to the exchange as part of a plan to rejuvenate the team roster. “Tomáš wants to continue his active career even after the end of the current season when his contract was set to expire. His career trajectory would likely take him outside Pardubice,” Sýkora explained, underscoring the importance of Zohorna’s contributions.
“It is not easy to leave the city where I have spent most of my career and I am here at home. However, I don’t blame the Dynamo management. They have always been accommodating to me during crucial times in my life,” Zohorna shared, showing appreciation for the club’s support throughout his personal and professional journey.
Despite acknowledging the tough decision to move on, he expressed his disappointment over not realizing his dream of concluding his career in Pardubice with a cup victory. “I’m grateful to my teammates, the support staff, and especially the Dynamo fans, who have always provided unwavering support and created an incredible atmosphere for us,” Zohorna concluded, emphasizing his deep appreciation for the club and its supporters.
Budějovice fans are enthusiastic about the arrival of Zohorna in exchange for Kondelík, recognizing his wealth of experience and leadership qualities. “He is an extremely experienced player and leader; he can be very tough for opponents. We may have been lacking exactly that type of striker,” asserted Novotný, expressing optimism about how Zohorna’s skills could benefit the team.
Both players are set to make their debuts for their new teams this Sunday, with Zohorna facing Třinec and Kondelík up against Olomouc. Additionally, fans can anticipate high tension on Tuesday as Kondelík returns to České Budějovice, but this time as a formidable opponent donning a Dynamo jersey.
Jáchym Kondelík with the gold medal for the world champion
With Dynamo was set to expire. His path was likely to take him away from Pardubice, which is why we are grateful for his consent for the exchange,” Sýkora concluded.
Interview with Sports Manager Jiří Novotný of Motor České Budějovice
Interviewer: Jiří, thank you for joining us. Can you share what led to the decision to part ways with Tomáš Zohorna and bring in Jáchym Kondelík?
Jiří Novotný: Absolutely, it wasn’t an easy decision. Tomáš has been a significant part of our club and a fan favorite. However, after analyzing the performance expectations and our current situation, we felt it was time to seek a player who could immediately impact our game. We believe Jáchym has the potential we need.
Interviewer: Kondelík has had a tough start to the season. What gives you confidence that he can turn things around?
Jiří Novotný: You’re right—he’s had some challenges this season, but we see a lot of promise in him. He’s young, tall, and has the skills that we’ve been lacking. Sometimes, a change of environment is just what a player needs to get back to form.
Interviewer: How important was it for you to ensure that the swap included an experienced player like Zohorna?
Jiří Novotný: It’s crucial. We didn’t want to settle for an average player in this exchange. Tomáš brings years of experience and a winning mentality. He has been through high-stakes situations on the international stage, and his leadership will benefit our team immensely.
Interviewer: Parrying off a club legend can be a tough sell to fans. How do you expect them to react?
Jiří Novotný: We know it will be a challenging adjustment for our supporters. Tomáš is a club legend, and we cherish all that he has done for us. However, our goal is to build a competitive team for the future, and we hope our fans understand that this move aligns with our vision.
Interviewer: As he transitions, what are your expectations for Kondelík in his debut with Motor?
Jiří Novotný: I’m looking forward to seeing him rise to the occasion. It’s always tough for a player to start fresh, especially against their former team. But with the right support and encouragement from his new teammates, I believe he can make an immediate impact.
Interviewer: Thank you, Jiří, for sharing your insights. Best of luck as you embark on this new chapter with both players.
Jiří Novotný: Thank you! We’re excited to see what the future holds.
This simulated interview reflects the thematic elements and dynamics of the transfer news provided, and focuses more on the perspectives of key stakeholders in the hockey scene. Let me know if you need further customization or different interview angles!
Rdubice has had a strong connection with Zohorna; do you anticipate any challenges integrating him into your system?
Jiří Novotný: There might be a slight adjustment period, as with any new player, but Tomáš has a wealth of experience that will expedite that process. He is a versatile player who understands the game well and can easily adapt to different strategies. Plus, his established reputation will help him gain the trust of his new teammates quickly.
Interviewer: what are your expectations for the rest of the season now that both Kondelík and Zohorna are with their new teams?
Jiří Novotný: We have high hopes! For us, it’s about building a competitive roster that can contend in the playoffs. With the addition of Zohorna, we believe we strengthen our attack, and with Kondelík at Pardubice, we hope that he can rediscover his form and contribute significantly. we look forward to seeing how these changes play out and bring fresh energy to both teams!
Interviewer: Thank you for your insights, Jiří. Best of luck with the upcoming games!
Jiří Novotný: Thank you! We’re excited for what lies ahead.
As the new chapters unfold with Zohorna in Budějovice and Kondelík in Pardubice, fans are buzzing with anticipation. Will Zohorna become the game-changer in Budějovice? Can Kondelík find his stride in his new surroundings? Only time will tell in this dynamic world of hockey!
