Vladislav Tretiak held a working meeting with the Head of the Republic of Karelia

Vladislav Tretiak, the President of the Russian Ice Hockey Federation (RIHF), paid a visit to the Republic of Karelia, where he held conversations with its leader Artur Parfenchikov with regard to the development of ice hockey in the region.

The main topics were namely the development of young players, coaches and other specialists involved in the sport.

RIHF President Vladislav Tretiak:

"Karelia loves our sport and is very enthusiastic about its development. The region boasts modern arenas with excellent conditions for ice hockey training. Kongopoga's youth team not only represents the republic in the MHL, but also closely collaborates with major Russian ice hockey organisations and consequently learning from their experience in developing talented players. There are several thousand players here, and a well-developed foundation of mass amateur competitions is well established.

"I would like to thank the head of Karelia for his sincere interest in ice hockey development, his openness to cooperation and his commitment to the region's sports system. His support helps us improve the player training system and increase the popularity and reach of our sport. By engaging residents of the republic in hockey, we are jointly promoting both a commitment to a healthy lifestyle and strong ethical values.

"Furthermore, there is ample scope for further work. Academies in the region are introducing the Red Machine National Development Program to their methods of working. There is every opportunity to expand the application of these innovations, which enable us to produce junior players with a high level of ice skills. Our programs for training coaches and other specialists are open to participants from Karelia. Of course, the Russian Ice Hockey Federation also supports constructive initiatives related to youth and amateur ice hockey. Many goals have been identified, and the New Year will certainly bring success in the implementation of various projects."