In the world of sports, Noemi Neubauerova’s journey through women’s hockey stands out as a tale of perseverance and passion. Born in Czechia, Noemi’s love for the ice began at a young age, setting her on a path that would take her across continents. From playing on boys’ teams in her hometown to making the bold move to North America, and eventually representing her country on the international stage, she has faced challenges with unwavering determination. Her story is one of relentless growth, personal resilience, and a deep love for the game that has guided her every step of the way.
The Early Days
Noemi’s passion for hockey ignited almost by accident, but it quickly became the driving force in her life. At just six years old, she discovered skating through a kindergarten activity, which led her to become captivated by hockey—a sport she saw on TV and immediately wanted to pursue. Although she doesn’t recall much from those early days, her love for the game was undeniable. Noemi fondly remembers convincing her mom to keep taking her skating, and her enthusiasm only grew stronger when she joined a boys’ hockey team in her hometown near Prague.
Being the only girl on a boys’ team wasn’t easy, but Noemi embraced the challenge. She reflects on how the camaraderie and competition pushed her to improve: “I was really close with all the guys… it made me better because I had to keep up with them.” Yet, the journey was not without its bumps. From sharing locker rooms to facing skeptical parents, Noemi encountered challenges that her male teammates didn’t. These experiences, while difficult, only fueled her determination to succeed.
As Noemi’s skills developed, so did the obstacles she faced. Moving to Prague in fifth grade to join a new hockey team marked a significant shift in her journey. Not only was she the new kid, but she was also still the only girl. The transition was tough, and she faced resistance from some boys and their parents, who questioned her place on the ice. “It was like a whole chain of everything,” she recalls, recognizing that these issues were rooted in cultural attitudes toward women in sports.
Chasing Dreams in NCAA
Noemi’s determination ultimately led her to make a bold move: leaving her home in Czechia to pursue hockey opportunities in the United States. She first attended high school in Connecticut and then played for NCAA's Colgate University—a decision she describes as “the best I could have made.” However, this move came with its own set of challenges.
In high school, Noemi encountered the concept of playing multiple sports, which was new to her. Initially surprising, it turned out to be a blessing. Studies show that multi-sport athletes often enjoy longer, more successful careers due to the diverse skills they develop. For Noemi, participating in different sports not only improved her hockey game but also kept her mentally sharp and eager to return to the ice.
The transition to college presented a tougher challenge. At Colgate, Noemi had to balance rigorous academics with the demands of collegiate-level hockey. For the first time, she struggled—not just on the ice but in the classroom as well. This experience was humbling, leading her into a period of deep self-reflection.
Noemi’s freshman year at Colgate was marked by considerable challenges. Being benched and grappling with academic pressures created a cycle of self-doubt and frustration. “I was crying every day, every night,” she admits, recalling the isolation she felt during this difficult time.
Yet, it was during these tough moments that Noemi discovered her strength. Realizing she couldn’t control everything on the ice, she shifted her focus to what she could control—her academics. This shift marked a turning point as she began to excel in her studies, particularly in psychology, a subject that sparked a newfound passion.
Noemi’s journey highlights the importance of resilience. She emphasizes the need to acknowledge and work through difficult emotions instead of suppressing them—a lesson she carries with her today. By concentrating on the positives and focusing on what she could control, Noemi not only improved her situation but also set herself on a path to success.
Looking Ahead
Noemi’s journey is far from over. As she prepares to continue her hockey career with the Toronto Sceptres in the PWHL, she carries with her the lessons learned from years of overcoming adversity. Her experiences—from breaking barriers in Czech women’s hockey to experiencing personal growth in the U.S.—have equipped her with the resilience to face whatever challenges come next.
For young athletes, especially girls facing similar challenges, Noemi’s story is a shining example of hope and inspiration. It shows just how powerful perseverance, adaptability, and self-belief can be. Her journey reminds us that tough times can lead to incredible growth, and when you mix passion with resilience, you can overcome even the biggest obstacles.
This conversation serves as a reminder of the resilience, passion, and dedication required to succeed as a female athlete today. It’s a call to action for greater equality in sports and a hopeful look toward a future where women’s hockey—and women’s sports in general—receive the respect, recognition, and support they deserve. As Noemi and Taylor conclude their discussion, it’s clear that the future of women’s hockey is bright, driven by the strength and determination of athletes like them.
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