"Players Delivered as Expected," Says U20 Coach Jaroslav Pavlík Following Plzeň Training Camp

Last weekend, the U20 national team gathered for another training camp in the Plzeň arena under the guidance of coach Jaroslav Pavlík. The experienced strategist shared insights on the camp, the roster, and future preparations.

"The 2005–2006 Birth Years Form a Great Group"

Coach, after a long break, you had another camp with the U20 team. How did you feel about the wait, and how excited were you to get back?

With my club duties, I didn’t really notice the time passing. Moreover, my colleagues and I have been monitoring players across all leagues, so it went by quickly. Personally, I was excited to reconnect with my colleagues from the coaching staff and see the players. The 2005–2006 group forms a good team—they're easygoing and a joy to work with.

The roster featured familiar names from youth national teams but also some surprises. What were the selection criteria for this camp?

It’s important to realize we’re not just talking about boys anymore—they're young men. Although the U20 team is technically part of the youth categories, many players already compete in senior leagues, and we’re pleased that most of them play in the Extraliga.

Our focus wasn’t on point tallies but rather on their experience and roles within their clubs. We strongly believe that exposure to the top domestic league is the best preparation for the World Championship.

Did the camp meet your expectations?

Yes, it did. The players performed as expected, and the coaching staff unanimously deemed the camp beneficial.

"We Decided Against Traveling to Slovakia"

Looking back, you participated in the Páňa Cup in August. How valuable was that experience?

It highlighted the direction our preparation should take and provided valuable insights. Since then, the players have made significant progress, which was a key takeaway from the coaching staff’s camp evaluation.

You also coach in the Extraliga with Elba. Do the juniors go the extra mile against your team, trying to impress you?

As I mentioned, these players are of excellent character. We communicate with their club coaches and know how they work. Many hold key roles within their clubs, and their inclusion in the Plzeň camp was well justified.

Previously, you mentioned the importance of building a cohesive team willing to give everything for success. Do you feel this bond forming?

So far, we see positive signs. They’re eager and committed, but even that might not be enough. They understand our expectations and are working hard to meet them. The direction we’ve set is promising.

In August, you mentioned a potential game against Slovakia or another tournament in Plzeň. Have these plans changed?

The Páňa Cup convinced us to focus on intensive training instead. We decided against traveling to Slovakia and instead stayed in Plzeň, where we had ideal conditions for preparation. In February, we’ll participate in the Pillsen Challenge, and we’re grateful to the Plzeň club for their support. After the league season ends, we’ll hold single-day camps culminating in a final training session in Česká Třebová before heading straight to Poprad, where the World Championship will take place from July 2–6, 2025.

Finally, I’d like to wish everyone a joyous holiday season and hope all your dreams come true in 2025.