John Ludvig Signs in Czechia, set to be Coached by his Father, Jan Ludvig

Image Credit: HC Dynamo Pardubice

Kamloops native John Ludvig is heading overseas, signing with HC Dynamo Pardubice of the Czech Extraliga.

After spending last year with the Colorado Avalanche Organization and making his NHL debut the season prior with Pittsburgh, Ludvig is set for a fresh challenge in Europe, one that reconnects him to both his roots and his future.

The move brings him to the same country his father, Jan Ludvig, was born and grew up in. Jan, a former NHL player himself, now works as a skills coach with the Pardubice club. For John, the opportunity to play in the country his father grew up in and he was born in carries a personal meaning that extends beyond the rink.

“It’s a special thing for both of us,” Ludvig told Gameday Kamloops. “For him, it means the world to see me playing in the country he grew up in. For me, it’s a chance to experience the life I’ve heard so many stories about.”

Before launching his pro career, Ludvig briefly played for the Kamloops Storm in the KIJHL, where his dad later served as head coach. From there, he made the jump to the WHL’s Portland Winterhawks, where he earned a reputation as a hard-nosed, two-way defencemen and was eventually selected by the Florida Panthers in the 2019 NHL Draft.

He climbed the pro ranks and eventually earned NHL minutes with the Penguins. Last season, he spent time in the Avalanche system, adding to his development and experience. Now, the shift to the European game presents a new challenge and a new opportunity.

“I came over here to develop my game and take it to the next level,” Ludvig said. “The European game is a new challenge for me to learn and add some more tools to my game."

HC Dynamo Pardubice is one of the top clubs in Czech hockey, and the opportunity offers Ludvig a chance to play meaningful minutes in a competitive league all while sharing the experience with his father behind the scenes.