Timofei Urakov: «We will do everything to make the playoffs»

Reaktor defenseman Timofei Urakov talks about his first steps in the JHL, new team and his hockey family.

– Timofei, when did you start playing hockey?

– In my family hockey is the number one topic to discuss. My elder brother Kirill is KHL player; he is a part of Torpedo team from Nizhny Novgorod. My father Alexander Urakov is a Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Neftekhimik. We meet each other every day. You know, we have kind of dynasty, I could not avoid hockey. Probably, only with my mom, we do not talk about hockey. I have been training since the age of five; I started my hockey career in Izhevsk.

– Your father is a coach; elder brother is a hockey player. Did you have any other choice?

– Of course, my elder brother has always been a role model for me. From an early age, I really wanted to be like him. Perhaps, that is why I wanted to be a hockey player. He supports and helps me.

– Who is your hockey idol?

– Kirill Urakov, my brother. I respect him as a professional; he knows how to combine speed, calmness and determination

– How did you find out that you would sign contract with Reaktor?

– We went through a six-week training camp. I and other guys got a call, so we went back to the gym and there we signed contracts. We were happy.

– How did you join the team?

– It was good. In general, all the guys are friendly. I was in Nizhnekamsk last summer on a try-out contract that is why I am acquainted with many of the guys.

– Did you notice the difference in the training process between the YHL and JHL?

– There are huge differences. Now our coaches pay attention to all the little things, spend enough time on analyzing or technique and tactics of the game.

– In your opinion, what kind of character is important for defensemen?

– You have to be strong, tough on the ice. At the same time, it is important to be optimistic in the locker room. I think I manage to combine it. I am the kindest person off the ice.

– What are your plans before the start of the season?

– We will play against Tolpar in Nizhnekamsk, and then we take part in the tournament in Magnitogorsk and after that, we will play a few more exhibition games. We are getting ready for the upcoming season.

– What type of goals do you set for yourself in your first JHL season?

– It all depends on me. I want to become a leader and help the team as much as possible. I would like to see our fans in the stands, it is so important for us. We will do our best, I promise, we will do everything to make the playoffs.