The former Chelsea shot-stopper, Petr Cech, has made a surprising switch to the ice, joining the Belfast Giants of the Elite League on a loan basis, serving as a backup goalie.
At 41, Cech is currently affiliated with the National Ice Hockey League’s Oxford City Stars, a level below the Elite League.
His connection with the Belfast Giants isn’t new; earlier in the year, he played in a charitable match in the city for the team.
Belfast Giants’ coach, Adam Keefe, expressed his excitement, highlighting Cech’s remarkable sporting pedigree and the expected impact of his high-level experience. He also acknowledged the cooperation of Oxford City Stars and Cech in making this loan possible, emphasizing its significance.
Cech’s one-off appearance at the SSE Arena in Belfast last April was more than just a game; it was a fundraiser against Ukrainian team Dnipro Kherson, which successfully raised over £65,000. This substantial amount was dedicated to supporting ice hockey in Ukraine, which has been ravaged by conflict.
Reflecting on his illustrious football career, Cech is renowned for his time with Chelsea, where he played over 330 matches from 2004 to 2015, followed by a tenure at Arsenal. His trophy cabinet includes four Premier League crowns, five FA Cups, three League Cups, and both Champions League and Europa League titles, before hanging up his football boots in 2019.
Internationally, Cech was a mainstay for the Czech Republic, earning 124 caps and participating in notable tournaments like the 2006 World Cup and European Championships in 2008 and 2012.
Post-football, Cech’s sporting journey took an icy turn. He initially donned the ice hockey gear for Guildford Phoenix, followed by stints with Chelmsford Chieftains, leading up to his current role with Oxford City Stars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Petr Cech Ice Hockey Transition
What team has Petr Cech joined in the Elite Ice Hockey League?
Petr Cech has joined the Belfast Giants in the Elite Ice Hockey League on a loan move from Oxford City Stars.
At what age did Petr Cech switch to ice hockey?
Petr Cech switched to ice hockey at the age of 41, following his retirement from professional football in 2019.
How much money was raised in the charity game Petr Cech played in Belfast?
In the charity game Petr Cech played at the SSE Arena in Belfast, over £65,000 was raised to support ice hockey in Ukraine.
What are some of Petr Cech’s achievements in his football career?
During his football career, Petr Cech won four Premier League titles, five FA Cups, three League Cups, the Champions League, and Europa League, and made 124 international appearances.
More about Petr Cech Ice Hockey Transition
- Petr Cech’s Career Highlights
- Belfast Giants Official Announcement
- Ice Hockey in the UK
- Petr Cech’s Transition to Ice Hockey
- Charity Match in Belfast Details
- Oxford City Stars Team Profile
- Elite Ice Hockey League Information
- History of Ice Hockey in Ukraine
2 comments
Interesting move for Cech, not everyday you see a footballer turn to ice hockey. Shows how athletes can adapt, curious to see how he performs with the Giants.
Petr Cech, from saving goals to saving pucks, quite the transition. Got to admire athletes who aren’t afraid to step out of their comfort zone.