Vladislav Tretiak participated in the opening ceremony of the Moscow Student Hockey League season

President of the Russian Ice Hockey Federation (RIHF) Vladislav Tretiak visited the Moscow State Academy of Physical Culture, where was a guest of honour for the opening ceremony of the capital's student league.

The legendary goalkeeper addressed the athletes and spectators with a welcoming speech, wished the players luck for the campaign and took part in an autograph session. As a part of the visit at the academy, Tretiak also participated in working meeting with its rector Nikolai Chesnokov during which they discussed issues concerning training and coaching.

President of the RIHF Vladislav Tretiak:

- I studied at the Moscow State Academy of Physical Culture and graduated in 1975. Of course, during my time studying here, students couldn't even dream of such fantastic sporting opportunities. The new sports complex is really impressive with spacious gyms, swimming pools and an ice rink of high quality.

The RIHF has been paying special attention to the development of student ice hockey for many years. The Student Hockey League, created under the auspices of the RIHF, already consists of more than 100 teams 3,000 players. Its geography is also expanding with student ice hockey currently developing in more than 30 regions.

Student ice hockey allows for young people to develop both personal and physical qualities such as determination, a will to succeed and leading a healthy lifestyle. Furthermore, the "Learn. Play. Become the Best!" initiative is an important tool for social development. Hockey opens new windows of opportunity for young people, and the RIHF will continue to pay special attention to the socially important aspects of the development of our sport.