Athletes from Iran, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Russia met at a hockey camp for the development of BRICS+ defenders and goalkeepers.

The first day of training began with a warm-up on the ice, followed by exercises and practice in puck and stick handling techniques.

The exchange of experience took place not only among the players, but also between the coaches. For example, coach Ali Al Sarour from the UAE came to Russia for the first time, but he has been familiar with the “Russian style” of play for a long time – there are many Russian specialists working in his country.

“In the UAE, people started talking seriously about hockey only 15-20 years ago and began participating in competitions. Russian hockey is a great example to follow. We need to study the experience of the Russians and bring it back to our homeland,” he shared.

Legendary Soviet goalkeeper and three-time Olympic champion Vladislav Tretiak came to support the participants. He was nicknamed the “Russian Wall” because the goal was well protected when he took to the ice. His experience inspires both Russian and foreign hockey players. Vladislav Tretiak spoke about the friendly atmosphere and almost family-like relationships at the training camp, despite the rivalry, in an interview with TV BRICS.

“I looked them in the eyes. I think they were very pleased that I shook their hands. And I was pleased because they are my colleagues. You could say that all goalkeepers are brothers,” said the Olympic champion.

This year, the Russian Ice Hockey Federation’s camp is being held in an international format for the first time. According to the organisers, such training camps for defenders and goalkeepers are planned to be held regularly in the future. The BRICS Ice Hockey Cup is also planned to be held in the UAE.

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