Kurbads Hockey School is proud to announce that, starting June 2, 2025, Lauris Dārziņš—former captain of the Latvian national ice hockey team and current assistant coach of Team Latvia—will take on the role of head of the school.
With a long and successful playing career and a promising start in coaching, Dārziņš brings a wealth of experience to the role. His leadership marks a strategically important step forward for HS Kurbads, significantly strengthening the school’s athletic direction, development focus, and professional approach to working with young players.
One of the school’s key goals remains its continued participation in the Youth Development Hockey League (JAHL, 1st Division), helping nurture a strong new generation of players in Latvia. HS Kurbads is open to children and youth of various ages—from as young as 3–4 years old, just discovering the joy of skating, to teenagers pursuing athletic goals. Young players develop hockey fundamentals, motor skills, and teamwork in a supportive and inspiring environment.
With Dārziņš now joining the leadership team, HS Kurbads plans to pursue an even more targeted and long-term strategy for nurturing young talent.
The school would also like to express its heartfelt gratitude to outgoing director Toms Bluks, who has led HS Kurbads since 2018. Under his leadership, the organization has grown significantly and cemented its position in the Latvian hockey scene.
“Toms has been a cornerstone of the Kurbads youth system, laying a strong foundation for the future. We’re thankful for his dedication, passion, and invaluable work over the years. We’re confident that the new director will be an inspiring leader for both coaches and young athletes,” said Andis Pikāns, founder of HS Kurbads.
The school looks forward to Toms Bluks continuing to contribute his coaching experience to the growth of players and the development of the team.
Lauris Dārziņš began his hockey journey in Finland’s junior system before moving to North America to play in the WHL. In 2003, he was drafted by the Nashville Predators in the NHL Entry Draft. Over his career, he played in Finland’s top league and the Czech Extraliga. From 2008, he became a key player for Dinamo Riga, later also representing other KHL clubs. In 2014, he returned to Dinamo Riga as team captain and one of its core leaders.
After retiring from professional play, Dārziņš transitioned into coaching. In 2023, he served as assistant coach to Harijs Vītoliņš, helping Team Latvia win a historic bronze medal at the IIHF World Championship. Last year, under his leadership, Latvia’s youth team won gold in 3-on-3 hockey at the Winter Youth Olympic Games in South Korea.
HS Kurbads was founded with the mission to promote physical development among children and youth and to popularize hockey in Latvia. The school offers high-level training programs for all age and skill levels—from beginners to future professionals. Working closely with modern sports facilities and experienced coaches, HS Kurbads provides a contemporary and growth-oriented environment where every young athlete can thrive.
