It is with great sadness that we report the sudden passing of Lukáš Bencalik, defensive back/general manager of the defending Czech league champions Prague Lions.
Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of Bencalik, to the Prague Lions football team and the entire American football community in the Czech Republic.
Bencalik died in a single car accident this past weekend.
A native of Příbor, Czech Republic, Bencalik had played for the Lions since 2018 as backup running back and defensive back and had taken over as the team’s general manager in 2019.
Lions head coach Zach Harrod:
“In Lukáš’ short three years with the Lions he made a deep impact, especially off the field. Lukáš was a dreamer, I can’t even begin to tell you how many ideas he and I talked about with and for the Lions. Lukáš, as GM, was instrumental in raising the level of our game day experience for our fans and was a key component in our 2019 championship season. His energy, his ingenuity and upbeat personality will be deeply missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with Lukáš’ family, girlfriend and friends.”
The 30-year-old Bencalik only started playing American football in 2016 with the Prague Mustangs but had made great progress. He switched from running back to defensive back while also serving as the team’s GM this past season. According to Harrod he transformed game days, bringing in major headline acts to create an entertainment atmosphere surrounding the football games.