Sergei Golubovich: "The players have the right attitude towards the national team"

Russia U18 head coach Sergei Golubovich:

- We can't underestimate any tournament, we have to prepare seriously. Russia have only one goal - victory. However, every team has its priorities - for the under 16's, it's the Four Nations in Dmitrov, it's the Challenge Cup for the under 17 side and for us the main target is the World Championship. There isn't that much time left before it starts. 

In order to prepare, we have played at the Ivan Hlinka memorial tournament, the Five Nations, this Challenge Cup and two friendlies with the Czech Republic. 

- At this Challenge Cup, QMJHL players will take part.

- In the past, they didn't let their players come to this competition. As far as I know, some players actually have points in their contracts about playing in international tournaments.

- After October's matches, you stated that you were going to travel to Canada in order to see Russia's players in action. What did you learn?

- We managed to meet a lot of our players and speak to them. I can say they are all adapting to life in Canada differently. Nevertheless, the main thing is that I felt how much they want to play for the national team. They have the right attitude. Also, it's important to understand that they moved to Canada not because life in Russia is bad, but because they thought it would be better for their careers in Canada.

- What impressions did the CHL leave on you?

- I agree with the opinion of many experts that the CHL has a very high level. Of course, there are weak teams, but every league has them. The overall level is good. Not a lot better than ours, though.

- Despite these matches starting late for Russians, the country is expected to watch this tournament.

- Believe me, such support is really important for the guys. I hope that they will all show what they are made of. However, I would like to ask the fans not to judge us harshly. The Challenge Cup is a part of our World Championship preparation program. Just like at the Five Nations, this is the final chance for the players to prove themselves. They won't have another opportunity.

I am not going to hide that our main task is to get the guys ready for the World Championship. Still, representing our country, we want to play great ice hockey at the same time.

- When travelling in Canada yourself, what surprised you more than anything else?

- In North America, all teams play the same style of ice hockey. The most interesting thing though was that a CHL team can 90% change its roster during a season! For us Russians, it appears strange.

- Given the fact that everyone in Russia expects the team to win, do you feel the pressure?

- I wouldn't say that. We have long ice hockey traditions, but I would like to sum up our season as a whole next spring after the World Championship. From my side, I can say that all coaches, players and administration staff are doing everything in order to help this team win. The federation's board have given us perfect facilities.

Russian Ice Hockey Federation