“It’s my first time playing in the CHL, and I like it a lot! You get to play against different teams from across Europe, visit different countries, and compare different styles of hockey. It’s a change from facing the same teams you end up playing domestically,” said Dzierkals.

Even though Skellefteå have made their way to the climax of the tournament, it hasn’t always been a straightforward route.

“In the Round of 16, we lost the First Game in Czechia against Oceláři Třinec. We had to learn from it because it wasn’t just one hockey game, but two hockey games at once since you’re always thinking about the Return Game,” explained the Latvian forward.

“We did a good job there as we came back stronger in the Return Game and won the series. The CHL format is very interesting in that sense,” he added.

Success in the CHL, not as much in the SHL

Dzierkals has only scored one goal in the entire SHL season for his team, but in the CHL things look better as Dzierkals has netted four goals and three assists in 10 games.

“My CHL season is going way better than my SHL one. Although, I feel it’s a different kind of hockey. Last season I played in the Czech Extraliga and I think I did quite well against those teams in the CHL,” the Latvian thinks.

The forward’s drought has raised conversations inside the locker room – in a positive, playful way. Dzierkals sees that different styles within the game play a role in the success of each individual.

“We were laughing with my teammates that I am a CHL type of player because I am doing so well here – it’s just a little joke, but the stats don’t lie. I am just excited to be in the Final and, hopefully, I can make a difference for my team.”

Dzierkals might not be the strongest scorer or the flashiest player on the ice, but he’s still confident about his contribution towards the team’s goals.

“It always depends on the role that you have on the team,” he explained, “this year we have a very good team and I think that’s the reason why we are in the Final. Each player knows their place.”

The newly introduced rule changes ahead of the 2023/24 CHL season have resulted in some of Dzierkals’ special skills coming in handy.

“I have scored two goals during penalty kills in this CHL season, and that’s huge! Special teams play a big role in the CHL with the new rules,” he said.

Onto Genève-Servette. How are Skellefteå and Dzierkals preparing for the all-or-nothing game?

“Teams from Switzerland are always good; many players want to play there. I know the game will be fast – that’s for sure. The Swiss are known for that. They have many skilled and experienced players.”

“The fact that they’re playing at home is also going to make things harder – their crowd is going to push them on. It’s going to be a really good game for the fans,” promised Dzierkals.

One game away from gold

“This is why we play the game – to win. I have won before, and I have great memories of that. The bronze medal was an honour for me, my family, and my country. Winning the CHL would be huge!” said Dzierkals, reminiscing about his IIHF World Championship bronze medal with Latvia.

“Many strive to win; some are still waiting to find out what winning is like. Now one game will determine whether we win or lose.”

“It doesn’t matter who we play against, we can deal with it. Our goal is to win the CHL,” he ended.

Find out more about Skellefteå's Road to the Final!