“Our Goal Is to Keep Competitions Running Smoothly, by the Rules, and Without Unnecessary Complications for Clubs and Players,” Says Jan Fedák

Chairman of the ČMSHb League Committee Jan Fedák describes the daily agenda of managing competitions, communicating with clubs, and creating schedules. He shares the committee’s greatest successes, plans for modernization and digitalization, visions for the future of ball hockey.

Continuity with Youth and Regional Competitions Is Also Important

Mr. Fedák, can you describe the League Committee’s regular agenda during the season?

During the season, our main focus is on managing competitions, overseeing their fairness, and resolving any operational or organizational issues. This includes approving game dates, evaluating club feedback, handling postponed matches or disciplinary matters, and continuously monitoring statistics and standings.

Our goal is to ensure competitions run smoothly, according to the rules, and without unnecessary complications for clubs and players. And of course, there’s an endless list of administrative and organizational tasks.

How does communication and cooperation work within the committee?

We operate as a team spread across the country, but thanks to modern tools we can connect anytime it’s needed. Most of the work is handled online – through emails, phone calls, video conferences, and shared documents, which allow us to react quickly. Important matters are addressed in joint meetings, where we openly discuss different perspectives and seek the best solutions. Each member has their share of responsibility and brings their own experience and viewpoint, which is a great advantage. I try to ensure the cooperation is not only efficient but also friendly.

Which moment in your work so far would you consider your greatest success?

For me, the biggest success is when we manage to align the interests of all clubs and the season runs without major issues. I’m particularly pleased that we’ve been able to introduce more modern communication methods and digitalized processes, which save clubs time and allow us to respond more quickly. Another success is maintaining a high standard of competition and attracting new teams and players.

How complex is the process of creating a season schedule, and what criteria do you use to make it fair for all clubs?

It’s quite a complex process because we must take into account many factors – from the number of teams and their geographical locations to rink availability and scheduling conflicts with other competitions. We strive to ensure each team has a balanced number of home and away games, fair travel distances, and evenly distributed opponents. Continuity with youth and regional competitions is also important so clubs can effectively plan their entire ball hockey program.

How do you communicate with clubs when planning and organizing competitions?

Before each season, we hold a series of meetings – either in person or online. Clubs have the opportunity to comment on the proposed schedules and share their requests or constraints. During the season, we remain in regular contact with clubs – whether for operational date changes, dealing with exceptional situations, or gathering feedback. We aim to keep communication open and based on partnership.

We See Growing Professionalism in Clubs and Constant Improvements for Players

How do you evaluate the current standard of the leagues, and what contributes most to improving competition quality?

Overall, the standard of the leagues is very good. We see growing professionalism in clubs and constant improvement of conditions for players. The quality is raised mainly through long-term youth development, investment in facilities, and the willingness of clubs to work together for the sport’s growth. Media coverage and fan engagement also have a big impact – public interest motivates clubs and players to keep improving.

What’s your vision for the future of league competitions within ČMSHb?

I believe the future is bright. We want to make competitions more attractive for spectators and partners, expand digital tools, and improve services for clubs. I see potential for better integration of youth and senior competitions to ensure a smoother player transition between categories. We also want to maintain regional diversity and support clubs in smaller ball hockey regions.

Regarding final events, how is the host city for final tournaments or the Czech Cup chosen?

The selection is coordinated with the Major Events Department.

Do you have a vision for making these events even more attractive in the future?

Absolutely. I see great potential in adding side programs for fans, increasing youth involvement, improving media presentation, and streaming matches. We want final tournaments to be not only top sporting events but also social occasions – something people associate with a great experience and want to come back to. We’re also taking inspiration from other sports that have successfully combined high-level competition with a festival atmosphere.