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Adam Hájek: In Ball Hockey, Speed Decides. That’s Why I Switched to Winnwell Athena Gloves

Extraliga forward Adam Hájek from HBC Plzeň relies on speed and stick control. In this interview, he talks about switching from traditional ice hockey gloves to Winnwell Athena ball hockey gloves.
Published: 4. 3. 2026 9:49
Ball hockey player with Winnwell Athena Ball hockey gloves in action

1. To start, tell us about your current team, your role on the court, and how long you’ve been playing ball hockey.

I currently play for the Extraliga team HBC Plzeň. My position is right wing, but I have always played forward in general. I started playing ball hockey at 17 when I combined it with ice hockey, which I had played since I was five years old in Kadaň.


2. How would you describe your playing style?

My style is mainly based on speed and quick direction changes. I also use physical battles to create space. Tough contact doesn’t bother me.


3. Ball hockey is extremely fast and physical. What is the most important equipment factor for you?

If I wear too much gear, it limits my speed. If I wear too little, I regret it for the rest of the week. Mobility is key for me.


4. Most players choose heavily promoted brands. Why did you switch to Winnwell?

I used traditional ice hockey gloves for years. The Winnwell Athena ball hockey gloves give me much better wrist mobility. Stick control feels easier. I haven’t taken a hard slash across the fingers yet, so we’ll see how protection compares.

Winnwell ball hockey gloves in action


5. How did you get to the Athena model?

I received them from my coach since I was already planning to switch. The specific Athena model was partly his choice.


6. What was the biggest difference when you first tried them?

The wrist freedom and overall weight. The lighter construction makes a noticeable difference.


7. How do you evaluate protection vs. lightness?

They are great especially for forwards. There isn’t excessive protection, but that’s actually the advantage. You really feel it when handling the stick.


8. How do you feel the touch with the ball compared to a puck?

The ball is much lighter than a puck, so hand sensitivity is more important. I feel the difference especially during passing and stickhandling.


9. Have teammates commented on your gloves?

Yes. The brand isn’t as common in ball hockey locker rooms. Compared to classic hockey gloves, I definitely improved. Next time, I might choose a darker color – white gets dirty quickly.


10. Would you recommend Athena to young players?

For complete beginners, it’s not essential. The benefits show more with advanced players. But getting used to better mobility from the start isn’t a bad idea.


11. Could these gloves become standard in ball hockey?

It’s possible. I’m satisfied so far. Durability will be key. If they hold up, they have strong potential.


Winnwell Athena Ball Hockey Gloves

Lightweight construction, improved wrist mobility, and better stick feel.

✔ lightweight design
✔ flexible wrist area
✔ improved stick control
✔ ideal for dynamic forwards

👉 View Winnwell Athena Ball Hockey Gloves 

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