Dan Sallows

Slovakia’s Bruno Mráz is a player who’s hard work and commitment to the game of hockey is paying off. The 6-foot, 165-pound centre had a very good season in 2008-09, scoring 19 goals and 28 assists for 47 points in 50 games with his HC Slovan Bratislava U18 club. This past year, Mráz put up 22 points (8G,14A) in 43 games as a 16-year-old against the older competition in the Slovakia U20 league. He also was voted among the 3 best players for his country at the 2010 IIHF World Under-18 Hockey Championships, where he was outstanding at both ends of the ice, and put up 2 points (1G,1A) in 6 games. He is an excellent two-way forward, that like most Slovakian players, has tremendous offensive upside. Mráz has great vision, and hockey sense, is relentless on the forecheckand backcheck, is a solid skater, and makes his linemates better. While Slovakia may be seen as a dark horse heading into the Memorial of Ivan Hlinka tourney, the club does feature some ultra skilled youngsters that could surprise the competition. Being one of the host nations, and gaining little respect amongst the hockey powerhouses, will only benefit Mráz and his Slovakian teammates who hope to contend for a medal. I had a chance to catch up with the talented 17-year-old, who may one day be the best player to come out of Slovakia since Peter Šťastný and Peter Bondra, for a quick Q and A.

Who has been your biggest help in developing into the player you are today?

Bruno: I would say my family, and all my coaches who have each taught me something along the way.

You are seen as a reliable two way player who works hard, and has the ability to put up points. What do you see being your best attributes as a player, and is there anything you would like to improve on moving forward?

Bruno: Honestly, I would like to get better in all areas of my game. No one is ever too good.

Is there a player you mold your game after?

Bruno: Peter Bondra, because fór me he is the best forward to ever step on the ice.

You will be representing Slovakia at the upcoming Memorial of Ivan Hlinka. With the tournament being in your own backyard, do you feel any added pressure to win a medal?

Bruno: I hope that we win a medal, and believe our team can, I don’t feel any added pressure because I think everyone underestimates us.

Who do you believe will be your toughest competition, and how do you like your clubs makeup?

Bruno: Canada will be the toughest competition, but if we play our systém we will win.

You have scored a few goals over the course of your young career, is there one that stands out as your biggest?

Bruno: When I scored versus the Čzech Republík at the IIHF U18 World Hockey Championships.

Who is the best player you have ever played with and against?

Bruno: With, I would have to say Martin Bakos, and against is the USA’s Rocco Grimaldi.

What do you like to do in your downtime from hockey?

Bruno: I run and workout all the tíme, as I like to stay active.

What is the highlight of your career so far?

Bruno: Playing in the IIHF World Under-18 Championships.

Most embarrassing hockey moment?

Bruno: I fell in a game versus Germany and they picked up the puck and scored on a breakaway.

Would you ever consider playing junior hockey in North America?

Bruno: It isn’t something I really think about, but only time will tell.

What is the first thing you’d buy after signing a pro contract?

Bruno: A Range Rover Sport supercharged.

Favourite NHL team?

Bruno: The Washington Capitals

Favourite movie?

Bruno: You Don’t Mess with the Zohan

Favourite song?

Bruno: “We No Speak Americano” by Yolanda Be Cool & DCUP

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