Ryan Hayes Wins Warrior Defender of the Week for Second Consecutive Week

Bratislava Capitals defenseman continues dominant start to the EUCHL season with another outstanding weekend

The European Union College Hockey League (EUCHL) is proud to announce that Ryan Hayes of the VSM Bratislava Capitals has been named the Warrior Defender of the Week for the second consecutive week, following another dominant weekend as Bratislava continued its impressive start to the league's inaugural season.

Hayes has quickly established himself as one of the league's standout defensemen, combining offensive production with the ability to contribute to a Capitals team that has overwhelmed its opponents through the opening weeks of competition.

After earning the inaugural weekly honor following Bratislava's season-opening victory over Łódź Legion, Hayes followed up with another strong performance as the Capitals swept the VSFS Prague Guardians in a two-game road series.

Another Statement Weekend in Prague

Bratislava opened the weekend with a commanding 8–2 victory over Prague on Friday, October 23, before completing the sweep with a 7–1 win on Saturday.

Hayes helped set the tone in Friday's contest, opening the scoring with a power-play goal at 19:15 of the first period. The Capitals went on to dominate offensively, outshooting Prague 43–19 and producing six goals in a decisive second period.

The following night, Bratislava maintained its momentum, delivering another convincing performance to complete the weekend sweep. The two victories reinforced the Capitals' early-season position as one of the teams to beat in the EUCHL.

For Hayes, the weekend provided another opportunity to demonstrate the all-around ability that made him the league's first Warrior Defender of the Week.

A Defenseman Making an Impact at Both Ends

Hayes' recognition reflects more than offensive numbers. The Warrior Defender of the Week award celebrates defensemen who contribute to their team's success through their overall play, including defensive responsibility, puck movement, physical presence, and offensive production.

His ability to generate offense while playing the defensive position has added another dimension to a Bratislava lineup that has scored freely throughout the opening weeks of the season.

The Capitals' performances have also highlighted the depth of the roster assembled for the program's first season representing VSM Bratislava and City University of Seattle.

With consecutive weekly honors, Hayes is setting an early standard for individual excellence within the EUCHL.

Warrior and the EUCHL Recognize Excellence

The Warrior Defender of the Week award recognizes the league's top defensive performance and celebrates the student-athletes helping establish the competitive standard of European college hockey.

Warrior, a leading hockey equipment brand and EUCHL partner, supports the development of players competing at the intersection of higher education and competitive hockey.

Winning the award in consecutive weeks is a significant achievement for Hayes and another milestone for the Bratislava Capitals as they continue building their identity during the EUCHL's inaugural campaign.

The league congratulates Ryan Hayes on his second consecutive Warrior Defender of the Week honor and recognizes the continued success of the VSM Bratislava Capitals.

Two weeks. Two awards. One dominant start.

EUCHL — College Hockey's Next Level.