Unbeaten Pārgauja Ignites Latvian Floorball, Eyes Promotion in Dream Comeback Season

STALBE, Latvia – A resurgent FK Pārgauja has taken the Latvian Floorball Championship’s 2nd League East group by storm, completing their first round with a perfect 7-0 record. The team, making a highly anticipated return to competitive play after a multi-year hiatus, has defied expectations, not only winning every match but also galvanizing a passionate fan base with their dynamic performances. Their ultimate goal? To secure promotion to a higher division in this very first season back on the pitch.

The flawless run positions Pārgauja at the top of their group, setting a formidable pace in the national league, which operates under the rigorous standards set by the Latvian Floorball Federation. This early dominance is a testament to the team’s commitment and the strategic rebuild that has quickly brought them back to prominence within the country’s growing floorball community.

Their latest victory, an 11-8 triumph over Rēzeknes BJSS on their home turf, encapsulated Pārgauja’s season thus far. Despite facing a team near the bottom of the standings, Pārgauja found themselves trailing for much of the game, including a 4-5 deficit heading into the final period. However, a characteristic surge in the third period saw them pull away, delighting a packed stadium of supporters.

Team representative Arnis Rutkovkis admitted the perfect start was a pleasant surprise. “We expected a positive record, but to finish the first round undefeated is a truly enjoyable shock for everyone,” Rutkovkis said. “Perhaps being an unknown team played a small part, but that alone doesn’t win games. We have a good, stable squad, and the players have gelled beautifully.”

Rutkovkis quickly pointed to another critical factor: the fans. “Our supporters are literally driving us forward! It’s something inexpressible. When the stands are full for every home game, and even on away trips our fans outnumber the opposition, we simply cannot let them down! When 300 people chant ‘Pārgauja’ in one voice, it sends shivers down your spine!”

Indeed, attendance figures highlight Pārgauja’s remarkable impact. Their 2nd League games consistently draw larger crowds than many fixtures in the 1st League, underscoring the deep community connection and public interest the team has fostered. This surge in local sports engagement not only boosts team morale but also contributes to the vibrant sports culture in the Cēsis region, inspiring younger generations to embrace the fast-paced sport.

For the victorious match against Rēzekne, Jānis Driļevskis led the scoring charge with an impressive four goals, earning recognition as the game’s top performer for his team. Alvils Zauers added three goals, while Mārcis Rutkovskis, Roberts Gūtmanis, Edijs Vents, and Anrijs Vents each chipped in with one. Ralfs Rutkovskis was a playmaking force, recording five assists.

Overall, Pārgauja’s top offensive contributors this season include:

• Markuss Rozītis: 23 points (8 goals + 15 assists)
• Jānis Driļevskis: 16 points (11 goals + 5 assists)
• Artūrs Ozols: 13 points (7 goals + 6 assists)

While the first round was flawless, Rutkovkis anticipates a tougher challenge ahead. “The second round will be harder; maximum effort will be required in every game,” he stated. “Players must realize that victories won’t just fall into their laps; each one must be fought for. It’s understood that over three rounds, there won’t only be wins, there will be losses too, and I think that will only be for our benefit, making us reflect and shake things up.”

Pārgauja’s aspirations for the season are clear: a minimum goal of finishing in the top four to qualify for the playoffs, with the ultimate dream of playing in the final during the Easter holidays.

Meanwhile, fellow Cēsis region team “Līgatne” concluded their first round with a 4-7 loss to Limbaži/Liepupe. Despite an initial 3-1 lead after the first period, Līgatne couldn’t maintain their momentum. Gatis Dzērve scored two goals, while Angus Mārtiņjēkabs and Oskars Balodis each added one.

Līgatne currently sits in 6th place with two wins and five losses from seven games, accumulating six points. Their leading scorers are:

• Angus Mārtiņjēkabs: 15 points (8 goals + 7 assists)
• Kaspars Malojlo: 12 points (6 goals + 6 assists)
• Gatis Dzērve: 10 points (6 goals + 4 assists)

The second round for both Cēsis region teams kicks off this Friday with a local derby as Līgatne hosts Pārgauja. Pārgauja emerged victorious in their first encounter this season, securing an 8-5 win.

The league structure involves three rounds, after which the top four teams from both the East and West groups will proceed to the knockout playoffs. Interestingly, FK Kurši FSS in the West group has also achieved an unbeaten record in their first round, mirroring Pārgauja’s impressive feat.