Vladan Stransky is a name embedded with the Bears faithful, the Czech-born Australian international has returned to boost an already firing line-up.

Stransky’s last full season was in 2008 when he recorded 63 points in only 26 games, racking up an amazing 22 goals and 41 assists at a rate of 2.4 points per game.

With the Bears firing on all cylinders this season, one almost could have forgotten Stransky’s impact on the ice. Almost.

Skating out in just his second game after the injury that kept him out of the World Championships in Mexico, Stransky scored to level the game 2-2 against the Blue Tongues early in the third period. The Bears went on to lose 4-2, but Stransky was back, and coach Vlad Rubes couldn’t be happier.

“From the start of the season we were wishing Vladan was on the ice with the team. The boys were always asking how was Vladan doing, as they felt having him would take our offence to the next level, adding 1-2 goals per game. Simply his presence brings more confidence into the change room."

The Bears Penrith Ice Palace won’t be seeing Vladan again until the 25th July, but with a week off and four games behind him, Rubes see’s business as usual for Stransky.

“I am sure Vladan will fit in perfectly and once he is 100% with his conditioning after the long break, you will see him being the main threat to every team in the League.”

“After Franchini's departure several weeks ago we truly do not have anybody from this year's National Team.”

“On the other hand we have players who spent years playing on the National team and in the League, so there is plenty of experience.”

“Also the younger and new players that joined the team before the season are stepping up and fulfilling their roles.”

Despite the Bears position on the AIHL ladder this year, defense has been the key, with the team recording the lowest goals against average since Nick Boucher started between the pipes.

“Vladan has been a dominant offensive player in the AIHL since he started playing for the Bears in 2002 and helping us to win the Championships that year.”

“He is extremely strong on the puck and it usually takes minimum 2 players to stop him.”

“He is tough and is able to take lots of abuse from the opposition which usually gives us number of power play opportunities.”

By Patrick Angel