Five Sergei Bobrovsky facts

Russian national team and Columbus Blue Jackets goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky is a true ice hockey star, and over the years, he has turned into one of the most talented Russian goalkeepers in history. We have five player facts:

Played against Sergei Mozyakin in his debut match

When making his senior debut for hometown club HC Metallurg Novokuznetsk, head coach Sergei Nikolaev took a huge risk putting a young Sergei Bobrovsky between the pipes for a match against Khimik. Russian legend Sergei Mozyakin was then a Khimik player, and it really was a baptism of fire for Sergei! Afterwards, Metallurg's coach noted that Sergei didn't let him down.

Became a KHL star at 20 years of age

Being a goalkeeper, Sergei has only himself to rely on. Every one of his mistakes will be on show for everyone to show, and as a 20 year old playing in the KHL, he had large pressure resting on his shoulders. Playing for one of the KHL's weakest clubs, Metallurg, Sergei was always coming under heavy pressing from opponents, and he had an ideal platform on which to display his talent.

Loves training

Alexei Kitsyn, Sergei's first coach, shared some training stories:

- Sergei does everything fantastically well. If he wasn't a goaltender, he would be a great forward. When he skates out on to the ice, Sergei always gives his all, no matter if it is a game or just training.

During his summer work-outs, Sergei usually trains for around four or five hours a day!

Had a difficult start in the NHL

When making the move to the Philadelphia Flyers, Sergei didn't have a flying start. He turned into Ilya Bryzgalov's back-up, and after failing to impress, he was offloaded to the Columbus Blue Jackets. Little did they know that they had just lost a future Vezina Trophy winner, and he has turned into Columbus' main star!

Never forgets his hugs

Lots of players have certain rituals after victories, but Sergei's is pretty special. For every triumph, Sergei and teammate Nick Foligno always share a warm embrace! 

Russian Ice Hockey Federation