Igor Grishin: «Big shout-out to all the fans who came out to support us today»
19.08.2026
Neftekhimik Head Coach Igor Grishin speaks with the media after an open practice.
– We had a great practice today. The guys came out with great energy – the crowd gave them a real lift. Playing in front of a full barn just makes it more fun for them. They want to show off their skill, their work ethic – everything they've got. It's always way better in front of the fans than just going through the motions. So I was really happy with the mood out there. They worked their tails off. We had this session mapped out, but it was also our regular post-day-off practice. We pushed the pace – lots of skating, lots of movement between the guys. They executed everything we asked for. Big shout-out to all the fans who came out to support us today.– How is the overall preparation going? Everything on schedule?
– Yeah, all good, everything's going according to plan. We've already played one game. We'll have one more friendly against Almetyevsk's Nefteyanik, and then we're off to the tournament. Over there we'll polish everything we've been working on this past month, and then we'll start fine‑tuning for the regular season.
– Last season when you came in, you said the guys would need some time to get used to things. They've settled in now, but I guess the opponents have also figured us out a bit. During this camp, have you been working on anything new – some tricks up your sleeve?
– For sure, we've got a few new things. But honestly, the initial adjustment was just about getting familiar with what the coaching staff wanted. Now the core is basically set – the foundation is still there. Some new guys have come in, but everyone who was with us last year knows exactly why we do each drill. And yes, we've had some chats with the coaching staff and decided to tweak a few tactical bits – but that doesn't change our overall style. We want to attack even more, score even more. I've always told the guys, and I keep telling them now: last year's goal tally wasn't good enough for us. We need to put up more numbers.
– Speaking of transfers – Rafael Bikmullin signed a contract, and Pyotr Khokryakov is still on a tryout. Both guys have strong ties to the city and the fans. How is it working with them?
– They came in and they're working hard. Rafael arrived earlier, so we quickly figured out where he fits in the lineup. His attitude and skill showed us he'll be a huge help this season – that's why we signed him. With Pyotr, we're still evaluating, because we've got young guys in that spot. But Pyotr is working his tail off too. We're still thinking it over – the roster limits mean we can't keep more players than we're allowed. So we'll figure something out. You always want to work with guys who give everything, who push themselves and help their teammates.
