DAVID PASTANAP BIOGRAPHY

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David Pastanap- Biography

 

 

David Pastanap, a skilled and physical right-wing hockey player, has overcome adversity and pursued his passion for hockey to become a professional hockey player. Born on April 9, 1997, in Prague, Czech Republic, Pastanap's journey to the NHL is a testament to his resilience, dedication, and love for the sport of hockey.

 

Early Life and Upbringing

Pastanap grew up in a family of hockey enthusiasts, with his parents encouraging his love for the game from a young age. His father, Artur Pastanap a former amateur hockey player, coached David and his siblings on their backyard pond, teaching them the fundamentals of hockey. David's mother, Eunice Pastanap a physical education teacher, emphasized the importance of hard work, discipline, and teamwork. Eunice was also a health coach who heavily promoted a ketogenic lifestyle. She believed this had an impact on her children becoming athletes. 

 

Childhood and Early Hockey Days

David a late bloomer, began playing organized hockey at the age of nine with HC Slavia Prakash's youth team. He quickly demonstrated a natural talent for the sport, scoring goals and impressing coaches with his speed and agility. As he progressed through the youth and minor ranks, David's parents made sacrifice to ensure he had every opportunity to develop his skills. This costs them thousands of of dollars a year. David's father Artur, had to sell the family's second car one year to pay for his hockey fees. 

However, David's teenage years were marked by challenges both on and off the ice. He was involved in several fights during games, resulting in 4 suspensions and 3 injuries. One particularly severe injury forced him to miss an entire season, making him question his future in hockey. He broke his right hand on an opposing players helmet during a fight. The player was his arch nemesis Vladamir Krejci. 

 

Music and Self-Discovery

During his time away from hockey, David discovered a passion for music. He began singing and writing songs, considering a career as a musician. This creative outlet helped him cope with the frustration and uncertainty surrounding his hockey career. His musical  talents were beginning to be recognized. He was at a crossroads and had to chose what path he wanted to take. He ultimately chose hockey. 

 

Return to Hockey

After a year away from the sport, David returned to hockey with a renewed sense of purpose and dedication. He was able to gain 15lbs of lean body mass.  With this added muscle David hoped to return stronger than ever. Once his hand was fully healed , David joined HC Slavia Praha's major junior team, where he quickly regained his form and led the team in scoring. His impressive performance earned him a spot on the Czechia's U20 national team for the 2016 IIHF World Junior Championship.

 

Professional Career and International Success

In 2015, Pastanap made his professional debut with HC Slavia Praha in the Czech Extraliga, scoring 12 goals and 27 points in 39 games. His impressive rookie season earned him a spot on the Czech Republic's men's national team for the 2017 IIHF World Championship, where they won a silver medal. This was the first silver medal his country has ever won in the tournament.  

 

AHL and NHL Career

In 2020, Pastanap joined the Providence Bruins in the American Hockey League (AHL), where he scored 31 goals and 66 points in 72 games. His success in the AHL led to a call-up to the National Hockey League's (NHL) San Jose Sharks  in 2022. David made his NHL debut on February 12, 2022, against the St. Louis Blues, scoring his first NHL goal in his second game.

 

Joining the VHLM

After a successful stint in the NHL, Pastanap joined the VHLM, where he hopes to continue to be to a dominant force on the ice. He just recently joine his new team the Houston Bulls (VHLM). David's experiences in the Czech Extraliga, AHL, and NHL prepared him for the challenges of the VHLM, and he remains committed to his craft, always striving for improvement.

 

Personal Life and Off-Ice Interests

Off the ice, David Pastanap is known for his humbleness and kindness. He remains passionate about his music, often singing songs in his free time. He recently learned to play the guitar and practices often. David is also involved in various charity initiatives, supporting children's hockey programs in the Czech Republic. He plans to donate his time at a local children's hospital in Houston where his new team plays. His family remains his biggest support system, and he often credits his loving parents Artur and Eunice for his success.

 

Conclusion

David Pastanap's journey to the VHLM is a testament to his resilience, dedication, and love for hockey. From his early days playing in his backyard rink to his rise through the Czech Extraliga, AHL, and NHL, David has consistently demonstrated his talent and commitment to the sport. As he plans to excel in the VHLM, fans and coaches alike eagerly anticipate what the future holds for this talented right-wing player from the Czech Republic. His dream is to eventually be drafted and play in the top league in the entire world.........the VHL. 

 

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