Photo courtesy of: Peterborough Petes
The Peterborough Petes added size and scoring depth to their prospect pool Tuesday, selecting Czech forward Patrik Poláček 37th overall in the 2026 CHL Import Draft.
Poláček, a 6-foot-5 forward from Praha, Czechia, brings a strong offensive résumé from the Czech junior system and international play. Last season, he finished second in the Extraliga dorostu U17 league with 36 goals and 67 points in 42 games for HC Sparta Praha U17. He added 17 points in 12 playoff games, helping lead his team to a league championship.
He also made brief appearances at the U20 level, recording five points in four games for Sparta Praha.
Petes general manager and vice-president of operations Michael Oke said the organization was impressed by Poláček’s physical style and work ethic.
“Patrik is a big, strong forward who plays physically, forechecks hard, and drives the net,” Oke said. “Our coaching staff, scouts, and myself have had the opportunity to watch him on video and in-person at various international events, where he made a favourable impression on all of us.”
Oke added that the club believes Poláček fits the identity of a Peterborough Pete and will be a strong addition to the organization’s long-term plans.
“We believe that Patrik demonstrates the qualities that we look for in a Peterborough Pete and are excited to add him to our prospect pool,” he said.
Poláček has also represented Czechia internationally at the U17 level, recording 15 points in 25 games during the 2025-26 season. He also competed at the 2025 U17 World Hockey Challenge, helping his country reach the bronze medal game.
The CHL Import Draft allows Canadian Hockey League teams to select players from outside North America to join their junior rosters for the upcoming season.
