Bratislava Capitals Complete First Team Practice Ahead of Inaugural Season

BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA — September 14, 2026 — The wait is over.

Today, the VSM Bratislava Capitals stepped onto the ice together for the first time, completing their first official team practice in preparation for the 2026–2027 European Union College Hockey League (EUCHL) season.

For the players, coaches and staff, it was more than simply the first practice of the season. It was the beginning of something new.

After weeks of recruiting, preparation, travel and anticipation, the Capitals finally came together as a team on the ice at their new home, TIPOS Arena, home of HC Slovan Bratislava.

Head Coach Karol Fako and his staff put the players through their first full team session, beginning the process of establishing the systems, structure and identity that will define the Capitals in their inaugural season.

With players still arriving from across North America and Europe, today's practice was also the first opportunity for the roster to begin developing the chemistry that will be critical when the games begin.

"The first practice is always an exciting moment," said Fako. "The players have worked hard to get here, and now we can finally begin building this team together. There is a lot to accomplish, but the potential in this group is exciting."

The Capitals have spent the past several days getting settled in Bratislava, moving into their accommodations, completing team activities and preparing for the demands of the season ahead.

Now, the focus shifts to hockey.

The coming days will feature additional practices, team preparation and preseason activities as the Capitals work toward their first EUCHL games later this month.

But today will always hold a special place in the history of the organization.

The first practice is complete.

The first season is about to begin.

And the VSM Bratislava Capitals are officially on the ice.

College Hockey's Next Level has arrived in Bratislava.