Martin Kafka (rugby player)

Martin Kafka (born 25 July 1978 in Říčany) is a former Czech rugby player and the current coach of the Czech Republic. His great-uncle was the famous writer Franz Kafka and his grandfather was a German international footballer.

Early years

Kafka started playing rugby at the age of seven at his hometown club. In 1997 he went to study at the Faculty of Physical Education and Sport at the Charles University in Prague, with the intention of becoming a Physical Education teacher.

Rugby career

He went to Spain in 1999, playing for Valencia, who were then in the Spanish Second Division (División de Honor B).

In 2001 he joined La Moraleja Alcobendas, which boasted international players such as the Souto brothers, Carlos and Sergio. His two seasons at the club was a particularly successful part of his career, with him leading the club to victory against Overmach Parma in the European Challenge Cup in 2002 and finishing up as top scorer in the Spanish First Division (División de Honor) in both 2002 and 2003. In 2003 he played for Castres in France, and Racing Métro the following year before rounding out his playing career at Japanese Top League side Sanix.

International

He won at least 37 caps for the Czech Republic from 2000 to 2006, scoring at least 136 points in the process before assuming the coach's mantle in 2007.

Honours

• Czech Rugby Player of the Year:
  • 2002