Vaclav Varada is a former professional ice hockey player from the Czech Republic. He was born on April 26, 1976, in Vsetin, Czechoslovakia. Varada began his hockey career in his home country, playing for HC Vsetin in the Czech Extraliga. He played for the team from 1992 to 1995, winning two league championships during that time.
In 1995, Varada was drafted by the San Jose Sharks in the third round of the NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut with the Sharks during the 1996-97 season, playing in 11 games and scoring one goal. However, Varada was traded to the Buffalo Sabres later that season, where he would spend the majority of his NHL career.
Varada played for the Sabres from 1996 to 2003, becoming known for his physical play and defensive skills. He was a key member of the team that made it to the Stanley Cup Finals in 1999, although they ultimately lost to the Dallas Stars. Varada also represented the Czech Republic in international competition, winning a gold medal at the 1996 World Junior Championships and a bronze medal at the 1998 Winter Olympics.
After leaving the Sabres, Varada played for several other NHL teams, including the Ottawa Senators, the New York Islanders, and the Nashville Predators. He retired from professional hockey in 2006, having played in a total of 493 NHL games and scoring 71 goals and 97 assists.
Throughout his career, Varada was known for his physical style of play and his ability to play a defensive role on the ice. He was also a fan favorite for his toughness and willingness to stand up for his teammates. Despite never winning a Stanley Cup, Varada had a successful career in the NHL and was respected by his peers for his hard work and dedication to the game.
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