How a teenage sensation is growing women’s hockey in her native Slovakia
Nela Lopušanová’s journey to America in the fall of 2023 was a bold move for the 15-year-old Slovakian hockey prodigy. Armed with a hockey bag, some clothes, and a few essentials for her dorm room, she set out to pursue her dream of getting an education and developing as a hockey player in North America.
Having shot to fame with a viral lacrosse-style “Michigan” goal at the Under-18 Women’s World Championship two years ago, Lopušanová has since been named MVP of the tournament twice, a feat unmatched by any other player. Now 16, she is determined to lead her country to its first Olympic tournament berth since 2010, all while inspiring other female players in Slovakia to dream big.
Arriving in New York to attend high school and play hockey with the Bishop Kearney Selects program, Lopušanová quickly made her mark on and off the ice. Immersed in a new language and school far from home, she found solace in the welcoming community of coaches and teammates who helped her transition smoothly.
Known for her playmaking abilities and love for setting up her teammates, Lopušanová is more than just a goal scorer. Her vision and skill with the puck have made her a standout player, earning her praise from coaches and fans alike. Her infectious joy and creativity on the ice have endeared her to all who have watched her play.
With plans to play at the University of Wisconsin, one of the top women’s hockey programs in the NCAA, in 2026, Lopušanová has her sights set on the future. She hopes to become the first player from Slovakia to join the Provincial Women’s Hockey League (PWHL), a testament to her ambition and talent.
Beyond her personal goals, Lopušanová is dedicated to growing the game of hockey in Slovakia. Her success has already made women’s hockey more popular in her home country, and she hopes to inspire a new generation of players to follow in her footsteps.
As she prepares to lead Slovakia’s senior team in the final qualification tournament for the Olympics, Lopušanová is determined to make her mark on the world stage. Her coaches have no doubt about her ability to shine in the biggest moments, and they eagerly anticipate more people getting to witness her talent on a global scale.
Whether she’s scoring highlight-reel goals or setting up her teammates for success, Nela Lopušanová is a force to be reckoned with in the world of women’s hockey. Her journey from Slovakia to America is just the beginning of what promises to be a remarkable career filled with achievements and milestones.
