by Madisen Krapf

Though many roads to successful hockey careers begin in Milwaukee, few get their start like  Ondrej Pavel.

The Admirals forward was born in the Czech Republic before making his way to America in 2016, as a curious 16-year-old, eager to see what awaited him across the ocean.

“Coming to the US, I left all my friends, all my family behind” Pavel said. “I don’t regret that decision one bit, but it’s definitely [a sacrifice] in retrospect.”

Pavel got his hockey start, like most of his counterparts, very early in life. He was surrounded by influence, which secured his dream of being a hockey player. He noted that watching his family play in his garden piqued his initial interest.

“I grew up in a big family and I had a bunch of older brothers” Pavel said. “I grew up watching them, always going to their hockey games.”

As his hockey career commenced, Pavel engrained within himself to represent the Czech Republic with pride, by consistently emanating what he believes his country represents.

“I think our camaraderie and hard work is kind of ingrained into our people” Pavel said. “we are never satisfied, and we always strive to be a little bit better.”

Since joining the Admirals, Pavel has tacked 15 points in 34 games and set a new career best with seven goals. He has also proved to be a physical powerhouse and commanded his presence on the ice.

He recalls a special era of his life that aided his development and served as a symbol of his continuous growth. Pavel played in the 2022 Frozen Four with the Minnesota State Mavericks. It was the first-ever title game for the program against the eight-time title-winning Denver Pioneers.

“I think that was just one of my biggest accomplishments, being part of that team” Pavel said. “Because that team, since day one, we knew we had something special, and we were really playing good hockey.”

The Mavericks ended up falling to the Pioneers in the title game but still the season ended in high spirits for Minnesota State and the mindset that they made history.

“If we were playing a really good game, it’s the most fun we could have” Pavel said. “And I think that team was one of the best teams I was ever a part of.”

Despite basking in the fruits of any well-rounded hockey player throughout his life, Pavel stressed that the best is yet to come, and there are goals to be achieved.

“[I want to] make it to the NHL” Pavel said. “That’s like, the main goal that everyone focuses on over here. That’s what this league is for.”

Despite the setbacks he has faced—and those still ahead—Pavel recognizes the high stakes and remains fueled by constant motivation.

“Just that personal drive” Pavel said. “I don’t want to be complacent: when things don’t go as well, I strive to improve myself and get over humps, and it just gives me the necessary discipline in that moment.”

Just like many successful hockey players, Ondrej Pavel has made a career stop in Milwaukee. For Pavel, this is an opportunity to exude his heritage, motivation and constant drive for success.