Ostrava, Czech Republic – HC Vítkovice Ridera have swiftly moved to reshape their hockey operations, announcing a new five-member coaching staff just days after parting ways with head coach Václav Varaďa and assistant Aleš Krátoška. The club is betting on a blend of experience and fresh perspective, headlined by the appointment of French national team coach Yorick Treille.
The move, confirmed by the club on Thursday, March 26, 2026, signals a clear intent to revitalize the team’s performance after a challenging stretch. Vítkovice struggled particularly after the New Year, managing only three wins.
Treille, 45, is no stranger to the Czech Extraliga, having previously played for Vítkovice from 2008 to 2010, where he helped the team secure a silver medal. His return marks a significant moment for the club, bringing in a coach with both a history with the organization and a proven track record on the international stage. He most recently led the French national team for the past two years.
Assisting Treille will be Pavel Trnka, Radek Philipp, and Luděk Krayzel – all figures with strong ties to the Vítkovice organization. Rounding out the staff is Martin Prusek, who will coach the goaltenders, returning to the club after four years with Olomouc.
“The newly formed coaching staff will strive to instill fighting spirit, club pride, and, above all, move the A-team up the standings,” a club statement read. The emphasis on club identity is a key theme, with all five members of the new staff having either played or coached within the Vítkovice system.
The appointment of Treille represents a somewhat unconventional move, but one the club believes will inject new energy and tactical insight into the team. Before taking the helm with the French national team, Treille gained experience in the Swiss National League, even serving as an assistant coach during a championship run with Geneva and a Champions League title two years ago.
Beyond the immediate coaching changes, Vítkovice are similarly focused on building a competitive roster for the upcoming season. The club stated that the new coaching staff is working closely with management to finalize the player lineup, with the aim of providing the coaches with the support they need to focus on their primary responsibilities.
“We believe that all together they will combine their coaching experience from national teams, foreign leagues and youth competitions and move the team to where it belongs, and where all those who support and cheer for Vítkovice deserve to be,” the club added.
The club’s decision to overhaul the coaching staff comes after a disappointing run under Varaďa, who had been in charge for 14 months. Although the change was anticipated, the speed with which Vítkovice moved to secure Treille and assemble a new team demonstrates their commitment to a swift turnaround.
The focus now shifts to the on-ice product. Treille and his staff face the challenge of not only improving results but also fundamentally changing the team’s playing style, which has been a point of concern this season. The club is hoping that the new leadership will bring a fresh perspective and a renewed sense of purpose to the locker room.
Vítkovice fans will be eager to see how the new coaching staff implements their vision and how the team responds to the changes. The club’s next steps will be crucial in determining whether this shakeup can propel them back into contention in the Czech Extraliga.
The club has yet to announce a specific date for the unveiling of the finalized roster, but updates will be provided through official channels. Fans can follow HC Vítkovice Ridera on their official website and social media platforms for the latest news and information.
Next up for Vítkovice is the continued roster building process, with the team aiming to finalize their lineup ahead of the next season. The club will undoubtedly be looking to add players who fit Treille’s system and can contribute to a more competitive team.
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