Russia U18 defenseman Danila Galenyuk: "Ice hockey has given me my character"

Russia U18 defenseman Danila Galenyuk:

- When I was five years old, my grandmother introduced me to ice hockey. We played on an ice rink during the winter. Seeing how older guys skated, I wanted to play myself. 

- My career began in Tyumen, where I played for a local team called Vodnik. I spent a year there before moving to the Gazovik sports school, and I stayed there until I was 13 years old. The coach left for Khanty-Mansiysk, telling me to travel there with him to play for their team. I joined Yugra.

- Are you a different person on and off the ice?

- On the ice, I play rough. The main thing is always to win. Ice hockey has given me my character.

- You have competed with players older than yourself.

- At first, it was difficult. All of the guys were stronger than me. Nevertheless, I gradually began to get used to the pace and the game. 

- What do you do in your free time?

- I try to study and go to college. I'm studying to become a coach. Apart from that, I like to rest.

- Tell us about your main dreams and goals.

- I don't want to get ahead of myself. I want to play for a professional team.

Russian Ice Hockey Federation