Credit: Matthew Wolfe
Making The Most Of It
Forward Robin Sapousek only played 21 games with the WHL Victoria Royals, but he took full advantage of the opportunity.
Starting the season in his home country of Czechia playing at the U20 level. He eventually joined the Royals after earning a Silver Medal at the World Juniors, picking up an assist in 5 games.
credit-narodnitym
Sapousek then made his WHL debut January 13th, versus Kelowna. He scored his 1st WHL goal the following night in the rubber match.
“It felt amazing.”
The puck is now prominently being displayed on a desk at home.
Adjusting to the smaller North American ice surface doesn’t happen overnight however.
Yet Sapousek felt he gained large strides in that, and in many other areas as well.
“I think I improved my passing, skating, and play on smaller ice surface – everything gets faster…”
In total the recently turned 19 year old scored 3 goals, adding 8 assists for 11 points.
“It was a good season for me. Big experiences, a lot of new things. I’m happy for the ability to play these games here.”
Sapousek was a 7th overall Import Selection by the Royals back in 2022.
“He’s as advertised,” said GM and Head Coach Dan Price,
“He can rip it, really shoot the puck, quick release and passes it on a dime. An unbelievable person, a great human who fits in well with the group.”
For his hard work, Sapousek was the recipient of the Royals Most Dedicated Award.
“I was so happy when I heard my name.”
The recognition means a lot to him.
“I was only here for a few months, so it’s a big achievement for me – it felt really good.”
His abbreviated season was cut even shorter however, missing the last 7 games due to injury.
Prior to being sidelined, he earned 4 points in his last 3 games, all assists.
“It wasn’t the end I wanted, watching from the stands. It’s hockey, sometimes you’re injured and sometimes you play. It was still good to be with the team.”
Undoubtedly his National Team will be calling soon.
“I’m not sure when it will be, but we will have a few camps…”
This summer he’ll have a lot of options as to where to train back in Czechia. He’ll also spend some time with his family in Croatia.
Sapousek is not one to rest on his laurels, and looks to put his nose to the grindstone in the off season.
“I want to improve my shot, change the speed of my game, be more confident and patient on the puck…”
The fall can’t come soon enough for Sapousek, eager to get his first full season underway with the Royals.
“I really love the group we have in this team, and will miss everyone over the summer.”
- Marlon Martens
