Interfax: Ice hockey draws special interest at Sochi Olympics – IOC

SOCHI. Feb 11 (Interfax) – Ice hockey is drawing special interest at the Sochi Winter Olympic Games, International Olympic Committee’s Director of Communications Mark Adams announced.

The presence of National Hockey League players is the brightest chapter in the Games, he said, adding that the Russian team is brilliantly prepared.

“Undoubtedly, it is a rare chance for Russians to watch NHL ice hockey players on the ice here in Russia, and this is expected to draw a large number of fans. We are looking forward to seeing all of them,” said the Organizing Committee’s vice president, Aleksandra Kosterina.

It is very important for Russian fans to see the Russian team in the finals, she said.

“I hope, as everyone does, that Russia will qualify for the finals. It is very important for us. Like Canadians, most Russians are mad about ice hockey,” Kosterina said.

Russian ice hockey coach Zinetula Bilyaletduinov’s team will play versus Slovenia’s national team on February 13.