Kirill Urakov: «Hockey life is unpredictable»

Kirill Urakov talks about his family, Neftekhimik team and hockey life.

– What are thoughts about your trade to Neftekhimik?

– When I found out that I could be traded to Neftekhimik, I felt good. Neftekhimik has a great team spirit and it was always difficult and interesting to play against.

To be honest, it was hard to leave Nizhny Novgorod. After all, I spent 10 years in Nizhny Novgorod. I started my professional hockey career there; here is my family and my friends. Hockey life is unpredictable. You need to be prepared for anything, no matter how hard it is.

– After this trade, you immediately flew to Chelyabinsk.

– I did not have time to practice with the team because of traffic jams. The team welcomed in a great way. I played against Fillip Dolganov, Andrei Tikhomirov and Rafael Bikmullin. It is great to know these guys. I have no doubts that they will help me.

– Are you ready to play against Traktor?

– Sure. I have not played for a long time, but I trained and kept myself in shape to be ready for the games.

– Now we have 3 Urakov in Neftekhimik. Dad - Alexander Yuryevich is a conditioning coach. The younger brother Timofei is Reaktor player. Did you ever think that all three of you would have to work in the same hockey systems? Is it good for you?

– To be honest, for me this is good. Because I love and respect them - they are my family. While I lived in Nizhny Novgorod, we got together with the entire family only during summer time. Now, we will see each other more often! Of course, I thought that this is possible. For me, as well as for dad, it will be kind of a new experience. We will work together as one team. I hope my brother will catch up soon.

I would like to note that since my childhood we had following rules – dad is at home, Alexander Yurievich at practice. Family relationships are at home, here are only hockey related things. I really hope and expect to play with my brother on the same team! My dear brother! I am waiting for you on the team!

Press service of Neftekhimik. December 4, 2023.