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Tomas SurovySlovak hockey player, forward.
Date of Birth: 24.09.1981
Country:  Slovakia |
Content:
- Early Career in Slovakia
- NHL Draft and Time with the Penguins
- European Journey
- Return to the KHL and Moscow
- International Play
- Accolades and Recognition
Early Career in Slovakia
Tomáš Surový began his hockey journey in his hometown of Banská Bystrica, Slovakia. In 1998, he made his professional debut for his hometown club in the Slovak Extraliga. After a promising season, Surový moved to HK Poprad in 2000, where he earned Rookie of the Year honors in the 2000-01 season.
NHL Draft and Time with the Penguins
In 2001, Surový was selected 120th overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the fourth round of the NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut in 2003-04, earning the nickname "Killer" for his fierce defense of teammates, including superstar Sidney Crosby. Surový spent three full seasons with the Penguins, amassing 59 points in 126 games.
European Journey
After his Penguins tenure ended in 2006, Surový embarked on a European odyssey. He excelled in the Swedish Elite League with Luleå HF, becoming their top scorer in 2006-07 with 57 points. He signed with the Phoenix Coyotes that summer but returned to Sweden after an unsuccessful training camp. Surový played for Linköping HC until 2009, then returned to Banská Bystrica briefly before signing with Skellefteå AIK.
Return to the KHL and Moscow
In 2010, Surový joined Riga Dinamo in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). He had a productive season, scoring 38 points. After that, he signed a one-year contract with CSKA Moscow in June 2011.
International Play
Surový represented Slovakia at the international level. He won a bronze medal at the 1999 World Junior Championship, led his team to a bronze at the 2000 and 2001 World Junior Championships, and played in four World Championships and the 2006 Olympics.
Accolades and Recognition
Bronze Medalist - 1999 World Junior ChampionshipSlovak Extraliga Rookie of the Year - 2000-01
Silver Medalist - 2008 Swedish Championship
