Ball Hockey Celebration in Zilina

The International Street and Ball Hockey Federation (ISBHF) decided at its meeting that Slovakia would host the World Championships in the categories of boys under 16 and 18 in 2024. "Since we were supposed to organize the championship before, the support and decision of the ISBHF were unanimous. I am pleased that we have once again gained their trust. Now, hard work awaits us to prepare an unforgettable week for the world junior elite," said Miroslav Dragun, the president of the Slovak Ball Hockey Union.

Zilina was the first choice for the leadership of the SHbU. "I wish the Slovak ball hockey teams a lot of success at the upcoming World Championships in Zilina. It is an honor for our city, and I believe that their sports performance will bring joy to our country, which they will represent in the best possible way," said Peter Fiabáne, the mayor of Zilina.

Slovakia has already hosted the junior championship under 20 in Martin (2004), in 2008, Zvolen hosted the tournament for 16 and 18-year-old hopefuls, and in 2014, the World Championships for under 16, 18, and 20 years took place in Bratislava. "We approached Zilina first. It has existing sports infrastructure, and the winter stadium in this city has two surfaces. Undoubtedly, the good development of this sport in the Zilina region also contributed to the choice of Zilina as the venue. Moreover, we have had several years of proven cooperation with this city. We are pleased that Mr. Mayor Fiabáne is once again extending a helping hand to us," said Ondrej Buday, the chairman of the organizing committee.

Slovak juniors are among the world's best; at the last championship in Liberec held this year at the turn of June and July, they finished in second place. In the last World Championships in Bratislava, they won world titles. "We will have the highest ambitions again. Canadians, Czechs, and Americans are also vying for the title, but we have something to give to everyone. I believe that the spectators will help us; we are very excited to play the championship at home again," said Ľubomír Liška, the head coach of the Slovak Ball Hockey Union.