In the city of Pilsen, located in western Bohemia in the Czech Republic, Victoria Royals alumni Patrik Polivka is still very active in hockey.
After starring in net for the Royals for 96 games over two seasons starting in 2012, Polivka returned home to go professional at the end of the 2014 WHL season. He returned to play in the Czech Republic professional leagues, playing in the WSM Liga with HC Slavia Praha, as well as, playing in the premier Czech Extraliga with HC Skoda Plzen. Currently his offseason is still about hockey, but Polivka is now on the coaching side, helping with a camp for young goalies. “It’s fun,” he said. “I like kids and it’s awesome how much they can learn just from one practice. I’m always proud when I see their development through the whole week.”
When asked to pick a fond memory of his time with the Royals, Polivka said, “I have a lot of amazing memories from Victoria, so it’s really hard to pick just one. My first game as a Royals player was something special or my first shutout.” He still connects with people from his time in the WHL, “Obviously I’m still in touch with my billets from Victoria. They are amazing people and I miss them a lot. I follow a lot of my former teammates, so I kind of know what are they doing and where they are playing.”
Polivka will see more action this year as he is expected to see a lot more playing time with HC Slavia Praha and HC Skoda Plzen.
Other Alumni notes:
-Calgary Flames prospect and current Stockton Heat player Austin Carroll spent time this offseason building homes in Mexico for those less fortunate, continuing a legacy started by his father.
-Logan Nelson has re-signed with the Rapid City Rush of the ECHL. “Nelly” has quickly become a fan favourite for the Rush after returning to play for them last season when he was acquired in December from the Witchita Thunder.
-Taylor Crunk is returning to the Fort Wayne Komets for a second full season. In a news release by the club, Komet general manager David Frank said “I know our fans will be happy that ‘Crunker’ is coming back to Fort Wayne. His physical style of play is an important part of our team”
