Russian President Vladimir Putin recorded a video message for the participants of the anniversary All-Russian Night Hockey League Festival in Sochi.
“I congratulate you and all hockey fans on this significant event. Russia is deservedly one of the leading hockey powers. We have presented the world with a whole galaxy of legendary players and coaches, their unforgettable victories at the Olympic Games, World Championships, major international tournaments have become an integral part of Russia’s sports glory, ”the head of state said.
The Russian leader stressed that the whole country is proud of these achievements.
Putin recalled that many outstanding hockey players 10 years ago stood at the origins of the NHL. He pointed to the role of the project in uniting Russian hockey fans and popularizing this sport in the country.
“Of course, the NHL is one of the brightest brands in modern Russia, popular and widely demanded. An important component of the mass physical culture sports movement, which today is on the rise unites millions of people throughout the country, ”the president added.
According to Putin, the Night League is growing and gaining strength every year, attracting more and more fans. The head of state expressed confidence that the anniversary of the festival will inspire the organizers and participants to new achievements.
The Russian leader wished the players and fans exciting matches, fair play and unforgettable impressions, and the Night Hockey League wished “only forward movement”.
At the end of April, Putin congratulated the Avangard Omsk hockey club on winning the Gagarin Cup.