Russia U18 defenseman Nikita Okhotyuk: "I learn something new every day"

Russia U18 defenseman Nikita Okhotyuk:

- When I was young, I went to a couple of HC Traktor Chelyabinsk matches. I liked how the sport was played: physical play, shots and the fast pace. In the end, I asked my father to put me in an ice hockey school. I started training in the Makarov school, but I made my final decision to become an ice hockey player when I was invited by Traktor to play for them.

- What qualities have you picked up along the way?

- None yet. I am learning something new every day. 

- How would you describe your character?

- First of all, I am a kind person.

- What do you look for in other people?

- How people treat me.

- In a team's, what's the most important thing?

- Discipline. It's really important to be a united team on the ice.

- Do you find it tough to get over defeats?

- Yes, at first it's difficult. However, you then analyse the game and draw conclusions. Life doesn't end after defeats. It makes you even more focused and determined for the next match.

- What do you do in your free time?

- I like to go to the cinema, go to the sauna and go swimming. I watch a lot of films except fantasy movies.

- Do you like fashion?

- Yes, outside of training I always like to be in jeans or in suits.

- Who is your role model?

- My father. I want to be like him in everything I do.

Russian Ice Hockey Federation