From Hockey Rink to Home: Boris valábik’s Post-Retirement Life and Family Joy
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Former professional hockey player Boris Valábik, known for his time in the NHL and various European leagues, recently delighted his young daughter with a heartwarming Christmas surprise. On December 6th, 2024, Valábik donned a Mikuláš (St.nicholas) costume, creating an unforgettable experience for his daughter, Viktorka. “Otherwise, Nicholas took it seriously this year,” he shared on social media, accompanied by a photo of the festive occasion. See the photo here!
Valábik’s career spanned various leagues, including stints in the Czech Republic, Kazakhstan, Great Britain, and Austria, before his 80-game run with the Atlanta Thrashers in the NHL, where he recorded seven assists. His post-hockey journey has been equally diverse. He joined the Slovak Police Force, transitioned into television as an expert commentator for RTVS, and even charmed audiences on the Slovakian version of “Dancing with the Stars.” He also co-hosts the Boris&Brambor podcast with fellow hockey player Marián Gáborík, which previously aired on public television.
Expanding His Family
Beyond his exciting career transitions, valábik is celebrating significant family milestones. He and his wife, Lucka, welcomed their daughter Viktorka in February 2021. Recently,the couple announced they are expecting another child,a son,due in february. This adds a unique layer to the story, as Valábik, Viktorka, and his close friend Marián Gáborík all share the same birth month – February, with Gáborík and valábik even sharing the same birthday, February 14th.
Valábik’s story is a testament to his adaptability and the joy he finds both on and off the ice. From his heartwarming Christmas tradition to his diverse career path and expanding family, his journey resonates with the spirit of perseverance and the importance of cherishing life’s precious moments.
From Ice to Life: An Interview with Hockey Analyst Peter Šťastný on Boris Valábik’s Journey
Senior Editor, World Today News: Welcome, Peter. Thanks for joining us today.
Peter Šťastný: My pleasure. Always happy to discuss Slovakian hockey!
Senior Editor: Boris Valábik’s post-hockey life seems quite fascinating – from law enforcement to television and even dancing! can you shed some light on this versatile career path?
Peter Šťastný: Boris has always been a driven individual with a thirst for new experiences. After retiring from hockey, he didn’t want to simply fade away. Joining the Slovak Police force demonstrated his commitment to serving his community. He then leveraged his hockey knowledge and charisma to become a respected commentator, sharing his insights with viewers. And who could forget his charm on “Dancing with the Stars“! It just shows his willingness to step outside his comfort zone and embrace life’s manny opportunities.
Senior Editor:** It’s certainly a departure from the typical athlete trajectory. What do you think motivates thes multifaceted pursuits?
Peter Šťastný: I think it’s a combination of factors. First, he likely wants to remain involved in public life and connect with people. his work with RTVS and the “Boris&Brambor” podcast allows him to do just that. Second,
he clearly has a diverse range of interests and wants to explore them fully. and I believe there’s a desire to prove himself beyond the hockey rink, to showcase his talents and personality in different arenas.
Senior Editor: Speaking of exploration, Valábik recently became a father for the second time. He’s openly shared his joy, especially the touching christmas tradition of dressing up as Mikuláš. How do you see fatherhood influencing this next chapter for him?
Peter Šťastný: It adds a beautiful new dimension. Fatherhood often brings a sense of purpose and fulfillment, and Boris clearly enjoys sharing those precious moments with his daughter Viktorka and now his newborn son.I wouldn’t be surprised if we see these family themes reflected in his future endeavors – perhaps even a children’s book or a charity initiative focused on youth.
Senior Editor: wel, Peter, thank you for providing such insightful commentary on Boris Valábik’s remarkable journey. It’s a reminder that life after the game can be just as exciting and fulfilling as the game itself.
Peter Šťastný: It was my pleasure.I wish Boris and his family all the best in their future endeavors.
