Zlatica Švajdová Puškárová,a devoted mother of two,has been a pillar of support for her sons Leonard,14,and Adam Jaroslav,7. Alongside her husband,Patrik Švajd,Zlatica has nurtured her children’s passions,especially Leonard’s budding hockey career. In March 2024, leonard took a meaningful step forward by making his debut in the youth extra league of HK Nitra. His talent was further showcased during the WSI Stockholm tournament in May 2023, where he emerged as the most productive player, a proud moment for the entire family.
The journey of a young athlete is far from easy. Beyond the physical demands, there are mental hurdles to overcome—grueling training sessions, the sting of defeat, and the weight of expectations. For many, it’s the unwavering encouragement of parents that makes all the difference. Studies show that parental involvement can significantly impact a child’s ability to persevere in sports, fostering resilience and determination.
The Švajdovci family exemplifies this supportive dynamic. Zlatica recently shared a heartfelt post on social media,capturing a quiet moment in the early hours before a game. The photo,taken in the semi-darkness outside the Nitra winter stadium,was accompanied by the words,“Good morning Nitra,you will do everything for the children. Leo today in two phases,” complete with hockey-themed emojis. This simple yet powerful message underscores the family’s dedication to thier son’s dreams, reminding us all of the sacrifices parents make to nurture their children’s aspirations.
How do Zlatica and Patrik ensure Leonard feels supported without putting undue pressure on him?
The Heart of a Hockey Family: An Interview with Zlatica Švajdová Puškárová
Supporting Dreams on and off the Ice
Archyde: Zlatica, thank you for taking the time to speak with us.As a devoted mother of two, you’ve been a cornerstone of support for your sons, especially Leonard in his hockey journey. Can you share what it’s like to nurture a young athlete’s passion?
Zlatica Švajdová Puškárová: Thank you for having me. It’s both a joy and a challenge. Leonard’s love for hockey is undeniable, and as parents, my husband Patrik and I feel it’s our role to provide him with the support and encouragement he needs—whether that’s early morning practices or cheering him on during tournaments. it’s not just about the sport; it’s about helping him grow as a person, teaching him discipline, and showing him the value of hard work.
A Proud Moment: Leonard’s Debut in the Youth Extra League
Archyde: In March 2024, Leonard made his debut in the youth extra league of HK Nitra. What did that moment mean for your family?
Zlatica: It was an incredibly proud moment for all of us. Seeing him step onto that ice, representing HK Nitra, was a culmination of years of dedication—not just from leonard, but from the entire family. It’s a reminder that dreams can come true with perseverance and support. We were all there, cheering him on, and it was a day we’ll never forget.
WSI Stockholm tournament: A Highlight of leonard’s Career
Archyde: leonard also shone during the WSI Stockholm tournament in May 2023, emerging as the most productive player. How did that experience shape him?
Zlatica: That tournament was a turning point for Leonard. It wasn’t just about the accolades; it was about the confidence it gave him. Competing on such a big stage and excelling showed him that he belongs in the world of hockey. It also reinforced the importance of teamwork and sportsmanship. As parents, we were thrilled to see him grow not just as a player, but as a young man.
The Role of Parents in a Young Athlete’s Journey
Archyde: Studies suggest that parental involvement is crucial for a child’s success in sports. How do you and Patrik balance support without adding pressure?
Zlatica: It’s a delicate balance. We always remind Leonard that while we’re proud of his achievements, we’re more proud of the person he’s becoming. We encourage him to give his best, but we also make it clear that it’s okay to make mistakes and learn from them. Our role is to be his biggest fans,not his critics.We want him to know that no matter what happens on the ice,he has our unconditional love and support.
A Heartfelt Message: “Good Morning Nitra”
Archyde: You recently shared a touching social media post before one of Leonard’s games. Can you tell us about the story behind that moment?
Zlatica: That morning was especially early, and it was quiet outside the Nitra winter stadium. I snapped a photo in the semi-darkness and posted it with the words, “Good morning Nitra, you will do everything for the children. Leo today in two phases.” It was a simple moment, but it captured the essence of what we do as parents—sacrificing sleep, time, and energy to help our children pursue thier dreams.That post was a reminder to myself and others that every effort is worth it when you see the joy it brings to your child.
Thoght-Provoking Question: The Sacrifices Behind Success
archyde: What advice would you give to parents who are navigating the challenges of supporting a young athlete’s journey?
Zlatica: My advice is to remember that it’s not just about the wins or the trophies. It’s about the lessons they learn along the way—resilience, teamwork, and the importance of hard work. Be their rock, their safe space, and their cheerleader. And most importantly, enjoy the journey together. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it.
Archyde: Thank you, Zlatica, for sharing your inspiring story. Your family’s dedication is a testament to the power of love and support in nurturing young dreams.
What are your thoughts on the role of parents in shaping young athletes? Share your comments below!
