Bobby Holik is a former professional ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for over 18 seasons. He was born on January 1, 1971, in Jihlava, Czechoslovakia (now the Czech Republic). Holik began his hockey career in his home country before moving to the United States to play for the Detroit Compuware Ambassadors in the North American Hockey League (NAHL).
Holik was drafted by the Hartford Whalers in the first round of the 1989 NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut in the 1990-91 season and played for the Whalers for four seasons before being traded to the New Jersey Devils in 1992. Holik played for the Devils for ten seasons and was a key player on their Stanley Cup championship teams in 1995 and 2000.
In 2002, Holik signed as a free agent with the New York Rangers and played for them for two seasons before being traded to the Atlanta Thrashers in 2005. He played for the Thrashers for two seasons before returning to the Devils for one final season in 2008-09. Holik retired from professional hockey in 2009.
Throughout his career, Holik was known for his physical play and defensive abilities. He was a two-time NHL All-Star and won the Frank J. Selke Trophy as the league's best defensive forward in 2000. Holik also represented the Czech Republic in international play, winning a gold medal at the 1998 Winter Olympics and a bronze medal at the 1992 World Championships.
Off the ice, Holik has been involved in various business ventures, including owning a car dealership and a hockey equipment company. He has also been active in charitable work, particularly with organizations that support children's health and education.
In summary, Bobby Holik had a successful career as a professional ice hockey player, playing for several NHL teams over 18 seasons. He was known for his physical play and defensive abilities, winning the Selke Trophy in 2000. Holik also represented the Czech Republic in international play and won a gold medal at the 1998 Winter Olympics. Off the ice, he has been involved in business and charitable work.
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