In this episode, I'm joined by former Ivan Matulik, a fan favourite with the Sheffield Steelers, Edinburgh Racers, Cardiff Devils and Manchester Storm.
Born in communist Czechoslovakia, Ivan was a rising star with Slovan Bratislava when he was drafted in the 7th round by the Edmonton Oilers. Faced with a life-changing choice, he secretly defected to the West to pursue his NHL dream, arriving in Canada alone and unable to speak English. Despite adapting quickly, fierce competition and serious injuries limited his NHL opportunities, keeping him largely in the Oilers' farm system.
Ivan's European career took off in the UK after signing for the Sheffield Steelers under Alex Dampier, where an intense early clash with Nottingham Panthers opened his eyes to British hockey's passion. He later joined the Murrayfield Racers, reuniting with Mike Ware and playing alongside Tony Hand.
His most successful spell came with the Cardiff Devils, where he enjoyed six seasons and won the inaugural SuperLeague Championship — a career highlight. Following Cardiff's financial collapse, Ivan captained the Manchester Storm through turbulent times, before returning to Cardiff as a founding member of the Elite League.
After further spells in the UK and Italy, Ivan retired due to the physical toll of the game. He now lives in Vancouver, working as a sales manager in the motor industry, reflecting on a remarkable career shaped by courage, resilience and top-level hockey on both sides of the Atlantic.
