Václav Piloušek - a pillar of cultural and sports activities in České Budějovice

Abstract

Among the notable figures respected for great versatility in the life of 20th-century České Budějovice, one can hardly overlook Václav Piloušek. Consistently successful in affecting the town's political as well as social and cultural, and especially its sports life, his activities often extended beyond the regional bounds and after the war it is not surprising to come across his name in the renewed Czech radio journalism, in particular related to Czech ice-hockey. In relative obscurity then remains Piloušek's resistance engagement during World War II when he unflaggingly supported Czech patriotic initiatives and so his share in the formation of the Regional National Council in the last days of war was just logical delivery of his conviction and endeavour to recover freedom. He joined in the postwar reconstruction in several spheres without leaving his position in health insurance company. Specifically, Václav Piloušek worked in the municipal authority of České Budějovice; moderated the local broadcasting of the Czechoslovak Radio; organised ice-hockey matches; trained the AC Stadion České Budějovice team and spared no effort to provide his players with synthetic ice rink; the latter efforts mounted by him and other enthusiasts were crowned with success in 1945-1946 Piloušek never abandoned his activities, especially his sport pursuits, despite the negative impact exerted on his professional career by the social and political changes of the 1950s.