Slovakia returns to the top division

19 Apr 2012 | Henrik Lundqvist

For the first time since the World U18 Championships started in 1999 Slovakia had to play on the second level.

The Slovak U18 team had no problem to return to the top level. Division 1A was won on home ice in Piestany with five wins in five games and a goal difference of 30-6.

Italy was beaten 5-0 in the first game. Japan 4-1, Slovenia 8-2 and France 4-1 followed. In the last game against Norway Slovakia needed at least one point to win promotion. They won it easily 9-2.

Norway finished second, Italy third, France fourth and Slovenia fifth. Japan collected 4 points in 5 games but still finished last to face relegation to Division IB.

Slovakia's Marko Dano scored 10 goals and added 3 assists to lead the scoring of the tournament. He was also named Best Forward. Team mates Patrik Romancik and Tomas Rusina were named Best Goalkeeper and Best Defenseman.

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