Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 8 January (BelTA) - The Christmas International Amateur Ice Hockey Tournament for the Prize of the President of Belarus is interesting both to amateurs and professionals, captain of Team Russia Alexander Medvedev told BelTA.

"Every time the Christmas ice hockey tournament has interesting teams, and newcomers. It's great because the hockey veterans get a chance to play at the highest level and the amateurs learn by playing with pros. There are very few tournaments with such a story," said Alexander Medvedev.

The Russian ice hockey player added that his team played every match with enthusiasm. "It does not matter whether this is the first match or the final. It is important to play to the top of your abilities," he said.

 In turn, Latvian forward Janis Tomans team noted that the tournament has been organized at the highest level. “This is the first time our team has taken part in the Christmas amateur ice hockey tournament. Of course, we are not as highly professionals as other teams who have famous players on their rosters. But it makes the games very interesting. To be on the ice among such pros is a pleasure,” he said.