Matěj Zadražil Remains with HC Tábor for Fourth Season | Czech Hockey News

Tábor, Czech Republic – HC Tábor has secured the services of veteran forward Matěj Zadražil for a fourth consecutive season, the club announced shortly after their elimination from the playoff qualification round. The 32-year-old Czech player will continue to bolster the team’s offensive capabilities as they compete in the Czech First League.

“We are pleased to have reached an agreement with Matěj,” said Tomáš Hamara, HC Tábor’s sporting manager and head coach, in a statement released by the club. “He is a valuable player for us, both offensively and defensively.”

Zadražil played a key role in HC Tábor’s successful 2025-2026 season, contributing 43 points – 14 goals and 29 assists – as the team celebrated a league championship and promotion to the second-highest tier of Czech hockey. His consistent performance earned him a renewed contract, continuing a run that began in 2023.

The forward’s hockey journey has taken him across several Czech First League teams, including stints with Přerov, Sokolov, Jihlava, Litoměřice, Karlovy Vary, Kadaň, and Prostějov. He brings a wealth of experience to the Tábor squad, having established himself as a reliable presence in the league.

“He is a valuable player for us, both offensively and defensively,” Hamara reiterated, highlighting Zadražil’s well-rounded skillset.

During the recently completed Maxa Liga season, Zadražil appeared in 33 games, registering 3 goals and 6 assists. He also added two playoff appearances against Třebíč, where the series was ultimately decided in favor of Třebíč after two games went into overtime.

Zadražil has amassed an impressive record in the Czech First League, with 313 total games played and 150 points (50 goals and 100 assists) to his name. He also has experience at the highest level of Czech hockey, having played 30 games in the Czech Extraliga for HC Karlovy Vary, where he recorded one goal and six assists.

The veteran forward’s roots in Czech hockey run deep. He is a product of the Sokolov hockey program, later developing his skills with HC Karlovy Vary’s youth system. His talent was recognized at a young age, earning him invitations to represent the Czech Republic in international junior competitions, including the 2012 IIHF World U18 Championships, according to EliteProspects.com.

Before establishing himself in the professional ranks, Zadražil excelled in the MHL (a developmental league similar to the KHL), where he was among the league’s leading scorers in the 2014-2015 season, finishing with 60 points. This performance paved the way for his debut in the Czech Extraliga with Karlovy Vary.

Zadražil’s commitment to HC Tábor signifies the club’s intent to build a competitive roster as they prepare for the challenges of the second-highest league in Czech hockey. His experience and versatility will undoubtedly be valuable assets as the team navigates the upcoming season.

Currently playing as a centre, Zadražil stands at 6’3” (191 cm) and weighs 220 lbs (100 kg), according to EliteProspects.com. His physical presence combined with his skill set makes him a hard opponent for opposing teams.

The HC Tábor organization and its fans will be looking to Zadražil to continue his strong play and contribute to the team’s success in the seasons to come. The club has yet to announce its full schedule for the upcoming season, but details will be released in the coming weeks.

What’s Next: HC Tábor will announce its full schedule for the upcoming season shortly. Fans can find the latest updates on the club’s official website, www.hctabor.com.

What are your thoughts on Zadražil’s return to Tábor? Share your opinions in the comments below!