GOTTA SEE IT: Hometown Hero Hertl Scores in Prague

Welcome guest writer Josh Frojelin! Josh is San Diego State University’s Hockey Information Manager. He also writes for Fear the Fin, Future Consideration, and the Daily Aztec.

San Jose Sharks center Tomas Hertl was already emotional in his homecoming. With his team taking part in the NHL Global Series, the Czech international had the unique opportunity to skate in an NHL game in front of family, friends, and Czech hockey fans.

Hertl, 28, moved from his hometown Praha, Czechia at 19 to debut in the NHL. While his career has been unfortunately riddled with injuries, he’s still the face for both the San Jose Sharks and Czech hockey.

After earning the largest applause from fans during lineup announcements, Hertl found the back of the net in the first period. His goal was followed by a deafening cheer from over 17,000 local fans in the 02 Arena in Prague.

THE PRIDE AND JOY, TOMAS HERTL 🦈 #NHLGlobalSeries

Cc: @NHLcz pic.twitter.com/ccINQ7nCta

— NHL (@NHL) October 7, 2022

Hertl soaked it in:

Hertl so excited to score in Prague pic.twitter.com/14eoidBXbS

— Sheng Peng (@Sheng_Peng) October 7, 2022

The celebrations did not stop there. Fans continued their support by chanting Hertl’s name as play continued.

“San Jose Sharks goal, Tomas Hertl!” The Czech crowd loves it! pic.twitter.com/XNe5nCvl1G

— Sheng Peng (@Sheng_Peng) October 7, 2022

Hertl’s power play goal tied the game 1-1, in the San Jose Sharks’ 2022-23 season opener.