Have you ever experienced such a long goal streak?
He did not experience. Not even in pupils. Eleven games in a row with a goal is really quite enough. And how many times I had many more chances that I could have added more goals. But I collect them one at a time.
To what do you attribute your gaming well-being?
I was lucky enough to start with Honza Kovář from the first training session and it started working for us right away. I’m glad how it worked out for us. We have to confirm our performance in order to climb a little further in the table from sixth place.
BULL-ETIN ZUG l Daniel Vozenilek (28) is the man of the hour at EV Zug. The Czech top scorer impresses with strong performances and recently broke a 27-year-old club record – after just 16 appearances. #ICYMIhttps://t.co/Hr3vNtxjrt
— swisshockeyblogs.ch (@shblogs) November 1, 2024
Do you feel that you immediately gained the respect of not only your teammates, but especially your opponents?
Certainly. In Switzerland, the most productive player wears a jersey with the inscription “Top scorer” and a special yellow helmet, so that opponents already know what kind of player I am. Some articles about me were also published in newspapers, so wherever we go, the opponents already know who I am.
Did you get used to the new game system quickly?
As a team, we attack and skate a lot, I try to play a lot on the puck. Things are quite different compared to Třinec.
You mentioned Jan Kovář. I assume you have it handy off the ice too…
From the first day he picked me up at the airport, he has been very helpful and easy for me. He showed me everything in the city and the canton, as well as how our organization works. He has a huge name in the club, he won two titles with him, he is its captain for the fourth season. I can only thank him.
Do you live directly in Zug?
Four minutes’ walk from the winter house. I live, one might say, in the center, even though it is a small town (about 30,000 inhabitants – author’s note). They have the lowest taxes there, so wealthier people move there. There are many places to enjoy in the surroundings. You can go to Lucerne or to the beautiful mountains nearby. Our three children also like them, they have a beautiful view. We are well taken care of in Zug.
Did settling in at the new address go smoothly?
It was quite simple for me, more complicated from a family point of view. Mainly for the eldest son, who started first grade in Switzerland.
Photo: Slavomír Kubeš, CTK
Daniel Voženílek (third from the right) at the training of the Czech hockey team in Karlovy Vary
How did the son cope with entering the German school?
We had an interview with the teacher and she said she was doing great. The first day I asked him if anyone had said anything to him. He claimed he did, he just didn’t know what. (laughs) He learned to count in German quickly, and he is also good at writing and mathematics. And it’s slowly getting into everything else.
Wasn’t he sad at first when you told him you were moving from the Czech Republic?
He was a little bit. We had a great group in Třinec, we lived together, so he had a lot of friends there. But he is at an age that he will quickly get used to the new environment. It’s more difficult for my wife because she doesn’t know many people in Zug and she is at home with her two youngest children.
Just on Sunday, she posted a video on Instagram of how her sons heated the bathroom after you left for the national team…
Yeah, boys get a little angry sometimes. (laughs) In Switzerland, it’s great that the little one goes to school and training alone, which I couldn’t imagine at all in the Czech Republic. It’s normal in Zug.
How is your German?
In Zug, more than half of the city doesn’t speak German, so I don’t come into contact with it much. In addition, everyone in the cabin, including the trainers, speaks English. I don’t even have a chance to learn German.
Are you following Třinec from a distance, which is only in 12th place in the Extraliga?
I watch it regularly, and since the Swiss league is not played on Sundays, I also try to watch the Steelers. They are in a difficult situation now, but I believe that during the international break they will talk about it, train and return to where they belong.
Commentary on the Rise of Daniel Voženílek: A Hockey Star’s Journey
Have you ever experienced such a long goal streak?
Ah, the elusive goal streak: much like trying to find love on a dating app—it seems like everyone else has it, while you’re left swiping left through a carousel of misses. Our man, Daniel Voženílek, is living the dream! Eleven games in a row with a goal? That’s like winning the lottery, but instead of cash, he’s pocketing points on the ice. And speaking of chances, I don’t know about you, but I’ve had my fair share of missed opportunities. At this rate, he should start charging for all this free entertainment!
To what do you attribute your gaming well-being?
Voženílek gives credit to Jan Kovář, who sounds like the best wingman since Robin had Batman. Turns out, good partnerships aren’t just for dating; they work wonders in sports too! If only Kovář could help us all navigate dating—suddenly, everyone I know is going to be on the lookout for a Jan Kovář in their love lives!
BULL-ETIN ZUG l Daniel Vozenilek (28) is the man of the hour at EV Zug. The Czech top scorer impresses with strong performances and recently broke a 27-year-old club record – after just 16 appearances. #ICYMIhttps://t.co/Hr3vNtxjrt
— swisshockeyblogs.ch (@shblogs) November 1, 2024
Do you feel that you immediately gained respect from foes and friends alike?
In Switzerland, if you’ve got the “Top scorer” label, it’s a bit like having a golden ticket. Everyone knows who you are—somewhat like when you walk into a pub wearing a Hawaiian shirt in February. Well, except he’s probably not facing the same perplexed looks! But kudos to Voženílek for turning defencemen into spectators; they’ll need a scorecard just to keep up with him!
Did you adapt quickly to the new game system?
Ah yes, adapting. It sounds easy until you find yourself in the middle of a game trying to remember that you’re supposed to skate and not just strut around like a peacock. But look at Voženílek, he’s playing nice and aggressive, proving that you can transition smoothly—even if it feels like learning the tango after previously doing the cha-cha!
Daniel, living arrangements in Zug?
Imagine living just a four minute stroll from work. Four minutes! In my world, that’s the moment it takes to find where I left my keys! But here’s Voženílek, settling down in this picturesque Swiss town with a view that likely puts my flat’s view of the neighbor’s brick wall to shame. And he’s smarter too—lowest taxes? Someone give this man a budgeting course!
How did your kids handle the transition?
Ah, the age-old question. How do you explain to a child that they’ll be the new kid at school? Apparently, Voženílek’s son tackled it better than most adults do with awkward small talk at the office Christmas party! Learning to count in German faster than I can figure out how to order a coffee in French. Kudos to him!
And what about your own language prowess?
Living in a place where more than half the residents speak English? That’s like winning the cultural lottery! Maybe Voženílek should consider a language app for his German, but honestly, why would you need to learn German when all the important people around you are speaking English? That’s like being the only British guy in a bar full of Americans—rest assured, everyone gets along just grand!
And, what of Třinec?
It’s like keeping an eye on your ex while you’re out living your best life! Voženílek prefers to keep tabs, and as he rightly should! After all, the grass may look greener but sometimes it’s just a mirage. Hopefully, they’ll pull themselves back up where they belong; otherwise, he might need to send them some motivational quotes! Maybe get them a Jan Kovář of their own…
Final thoughts?
Voženílek’s journey is a sharp reminder that whether you’re shooting pucks in Switzerland or shooting your shot in life, the most significant factors are perseverance and a solid support system! So, here’s to the next chapter of his career—may his goals continue to pile up, and may his kids learn to count even faster—because life, like hockey, is all about keeping score!
Have you ever found yourself on a prolonged goal streak that feels almost surreal?
He hasn’t experienced such a remarkable feat, not even during his school years. Achieving goals in eleven consecutive games is an impressive milestone. There were many occasions where I could have increased that tally, given the numerous chances I created. However, I tend to collect goals one by one, savoring each moment.
To what do you attribute your outstanding performance on the ice?
I’m fortunate to have teamed up with Jan Kovář from day one of training, and our chemistry clicked seamlessly. It’s gratifying to see how well we connect on the ice. However, we must maintain our performance to aim for a better position in the standings, moving beyond our current sixth place.
BULL-ETIN ZUG l Daniel Vozenilek (28) is the man of the hour at EV Zug. The Czech top scorer impresses with strong performances and recently broke a 27-year-old club record – after just 16 appearances. #ICYMIhttps://t.co/Hr3vNtxjrt
— swisshockeyblogs.ch (@shblogs) November 1, 2024
Do you feel that your impressive performances have earned you respect from both teammates and opponents alike?
Absolutely. In Switzerland, the player who leads in scoring wears a distinct jersey emblazoned with “Top scorer” and dons a special yellow helmet, signaling to opponents the kind of player I am. Several articles have been written about me, ensuring that wherever we play, opponents are well aware of who I am.
Did you adapt quickly to the new game system implemented by your team?
As a unit, we emphasize aggressive attacks and skating, and I strive to maintain an active presence with the puck. The style of play is markedly different from what I was accustomed to in Třinec.
You mentioned Jan Kovář. How has your relationship been off the ice?
Since the moment he met me at the airport, Jan has been incredibly supportive and welcoming. He showed me around the city and our canton, familiarizing me with our organization. His stature at the club is significant; he has won two championship titles and is serving as captain for his fourth season. I owe him a great deal of gratitude.
Do you live right in Zug?
I reside just a short four-minute walk from the ice rink. Interestingly, my home is in the center of this quaint town, which has around 30,000 residents. Zug boasts the lowest tax rates, attracting affluent individuals. There’s plenty to explore, including nearby Lucerne and the stunning mountains. Our three children particularly adore the breathtaking views that surround us. We feel well-settled in Zug.
How was your transition to this new home, particularly for your family?
My move was relatively straightforward, though it posed some challenges for my family. The most significant transition was for my eldest son, who started first grade here in Switzerland.
How did your son adapt to his new German school?
The teacher I spoke with assured me he was doing exceptionally well. On his first day, I asked if he encountered any difficulties with his classmates. He replied that while he had spoken to others, he didn’t quite understand what they said! (laughs) He quickly learned to count in German and is excelling in subjects like writing and mathematics. Gradually, he’s starting to adapt to everything else.
Was your son sad when you informed him that the family would be moving from the Czech Republic?
He felt a bit of sadness since we had a fantastic group of friends in Třinec. However, at his age, he is remarkably adaptable to new surroundings. My wife, on the other hand, faces a tougher adjustment, as she doesn’t know many people here in Zug and spends her time at home with our two youngest children.
Wasn’t he sad at first when you told him you were moving from the Czech Republic?
He was a little bit. We had a great group in Třinec, and he had many friends there. But he is at an age where he quickly gets used to the new environment. It’s harder for my wife since she doesn’t know many people in Zug and is at home with our two youngest kids.
Just on Sunday, she shared a video on Instagram of how your sons were warming the bathroom in your absence while you were with the national team…
Yeah, the boys sometimes get a bit rowdy! (laughs) The great thing about Switzerland is that the youngest can walk to school and training by himself, which is something I never imagined was possible in the Czech Republic. Here in Zug, it’s a normal part of life.
How is your German progressing?
In Zug, a significant portion of the population doesn’t speak German, so my opportunities to practice are limited. Plus, within our team setting, including the coaches and staff, English is the primary language used. I’m finding it challenging to learn German.
Are you keeping an eye on Třinec’s performance, especially since they currently sit in 12th place in the Extraliga?
I follow their games closely, and since the Swiss league has a different schedule, I make an effort to catch the Steelers’ matches. They are navigating a difficult phase right now, but I hold hope that during the international break, they’ll regroup, train hard, and reclaim their position in the rankings.
Has been the backbone of our family’s transition, ensuring that our kids feel supported and settled. She has made a concerted effort to involve them in local activities, helping them build new friendships and integrate into their new environment.
Have you come to love Zug and its surroundings?
Absolutely! Zug is picturesque, with its beautiful lake and stunning mountain views. It has a quaint charm that makes it feel like home very quickly. Plus, the accessibility to outdoor activities is a huge bonus for our family. We love exploring the hiking trails and enjoying family outings in the mountains. It’s a wonderful atmosphere to raise our children!
What are your thoughts on the future, both personally and professionally?
I’m excited about what lies ahead! My focus right now is on contributing to our team’s success and continuing to build my game. Professionally, I aim to maintain my performance and help bring home some trophies to Zug. On a personal level, I hope to see my kids thrive in their new environment and grow up with positive experiences here in Switzerland. The future looks bright, and I’m eager to embrace every moment.
