Zdeno Chára

Zdeno Chára

Zdeno Chára was born on March 18th, 1977

Full Name: Zdeno Chára
Nationality: Slovak
Profession: Ice hockey player
Zodiac Sign: March 18
Place of Birth: Trenčín, Czechoslovakia
Height: 6 ft 9 in
Weight: 255 lb
Spouse: Pamela Chára

A towering defenseman who captained the Boston Bruins to a Stanley Cup championship and holds the record for most games played by a defenseman in NHL history.

Written by: Victor Malone Victor Malone

Zdeno Chára: The Towering Figure of Modern Ice Hockey

Zdeno Chára is a Slovak former professional ice hockey defenceman, renowned for being the tallest player to ever take to the NHL ice, standing at an astonishing 6 ft 9 in (2.06 m). With a storied career spanning 24 seasons, he is best known for his tenure as the captain of the Boston Bruins, leading the team to a Stanley Cup championship in 2011.

Early Life and Career

Born on March 18, 1977, in Trenčín, Czechoslovakia (now Slovakia), Chára was drafted in the third round, 56th overall, by the New York Islanders in the 1996 NHL Entry Draft. Before joining the NHL, he played for the Western Hockey League's Prince George Cougars, where he honed his skills as a reliable, stay-at-home defender.

Rise to Prominence

Chára's physical strength and intimidating presence on the ice earned him a reputation as a tough player to play against. His punishing hits and occasional fights made him a formidable force in the defensive zone. His powerful slap shot, which improved with each season, was a valuable asset to his teams.

Notable Achievements

Captaining the Bruins

Chára's 14-year tenure as the Bruins' captain was marked by his leadership and dedication to the team. He was the first European-born and raised captain to lead his team to a Stanley Cup championship, and the first to be born and trained in the Eastern Bloc.

Legacy

Zdeno Chára's impact on modern ice hockey is undeniable. His achievements on the ice, combined with his inspiring leadership and dedication to the game, have cemented his place as one of the greatest defencemen in NHL history.

Personal Life

Chára is known for his strong family values and commitment to charitable causes. He has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, including supporting children's charities and advocating for environmental awareness.

Trivia and Fun Facts

Timeline
1977
Born in Trenčín
Zdeno Chára was born on March 18, 1977, in Trenčín, Czechoslovakia (now Slovakia). He would go on to become a successful NHL defenseman.
1996
Drafted by New York Islanders
Chára was drafted by the New York Islanders in the 3rd round of the 1996 NHL Entry Draft, beginning his professional hockey career.
2001
Traded to Ottawa Senators
In 2001, Chára was traded to the Ottawa Senators, where he would spend the next several seasons.
2006
Won Olympic Bronze
Chára won a bronze medal with the Slovak national team at the 2006 Winter Olympics.
2011
Won Stanley Cup with Boston Bruins
Chára won the Stanley Cup with the Boston Bruins in 2011, serving as the teams captain.
Zdeno Chára

Zdeno Chára Quiz

What position did Zdeno Chra play in the NHL?

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FAQ
Who is Zdeno Chára and what is he known for?
Zdeno Chára is a Slovak former professional ice hockey player, known for his 24-year career in the NHL, playing for the New York Islanders, Ottawa Senators, and Boston Bruins.
What awards did Zdeno Chára win in his career?
Zdeno Chára won the Norris Trophy in 2009 as the NHLs top defenseman, and was a six-time NHL All-Star. He also won the Stanley Cup with the Boston Bruins in 2011.
How tall is Zdeno Chára?
Zdeno Chára is 6 feet 9 inches (206 cm) tall, making him one of the tallest players in NHL history.
What is Zdeno Chára doing after retiring from hockey?
Zdeno Chára has been involved in various business ventures and has worked as an analyst for NHL Network. He has also been involved in several charitable initiatives, including the Boston Bruins Foundation.
Did Zdeno Chára hold any leadership roles in his career?
Yes, Zdeno Chára served as the captain of the Boston Bruins from 2013 to 2020, and was also an alternate captain for the Ottawa Senators.

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