Vernon Vipers Star Brings Home World Gold
Vernon Vipers defenceman Dome Szongoth has a big reason to celebrate this holiday season, and it’s not just Christmas. He returned home after helping his native Hungary win a gold medal at the IIHF Division 1 Group B World U20 Hockey Championship. The tournament took place in Milano, Italy, from December 8 to 14.
Szongoth, who turns 20 on January 18, was a key part of Hungary’s success. Because he and his teammates played with determination and skill, they finished the event with a strong record and topped their group overall.
Hungary’s Path to Gold
Hungary’s team posted a 4-1 record at the six-team tournament. Their only loss came against hosts Italy, but they rebounded quickly with wins over teams like Lithuania, Estonia, Poland and Japan.
Szongoth contributed one assist during the event, which came in Hungary’s 3-1 victory over Estonia when he helped set up the insurance goal in the third period. His younger brother, Doman Szongoth, also played a big role and scored Hungary’s first goal of the tournament.
Because Hungary won Group B, the team will move up to compete in the Division 1 Group A tournament next year, giving players like Szongoth a chance to compete at an even higher level.
How the Team Built Momentum
Hungary opened with a 4-0 win and later pulled out a dramatic 4-3 overtime victory against Poland after Doman Szongoth sent that game into extra time. The team then finished strongly with a 6-1 win over Japan.
The championship run marked a significant turnaround for Hungary’s U20 squad, which went winless in the Division 1A tournament in 2024. Their success this year shows how quickly teams can grow with experience and focus.
Back to BCHL Action Soon
Now that his international duties are complete, Szongoth will rejoin the Vernon Vipers in the B.C. Hockey League. His team returns to league play on Friday, January 2, when they host the Salmon Arm Silverbacks at Kal Tire Place.
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