Slovak ice hockey: Tomáš Jurčo signs with HC Košice as Tomáš Starosta retires

Slovak forward Tomáš Jurčo, a native of Košice, has signed a contract to re‑join HC Košice in the Tipsport Liga. Jurčo, a 2022 Olympic bronze‑medalist, returns after seven seasons in the NHL where he recorded 22 goals and 31 assists, as well as stints in the Swiss league and the KHL. He said the move means a “return home” and expressed optimism for a successful season with the club.

Veteran defenseman Tomáš Starosta announced his retirement at age 45 after a lengthy career that included a silver medal at the 2012 World Championships and extensive experience in the KHL and Slovak Extraliga. Starosta, a former Slovak national‑team regular, indicated he may stay involved with Dukla Trenčín in a non‑playing capacity, leaving the door open for future roles within the organization.