Kyle Wilson: Traktor is famous for its history and winning traditions

Kyle, tell us a little about yourself and your family.
I started playing hockey in London, Ontario, and went on to play in Colgate University where I met my future wife Ashley. We have been married for five years now. We have a dog, a boxer named Gus.

What do you know about Chelyabinsk in general and Traktor in particular?
I played twice against Traktor during the last season. We did not have time to do any sightseeing, but I vividly remember the arena the raucous crowd. It is always great to play for the fans like these. Lauris Darzins, my ex-teammate, also had a lot of great things to say about the city as well as its fans, which is why I would really like to get acquainted with Chelyabinsk.

Tell us a little about how your career changed in the course of these past few months.
The offseason was crazy! Donbass was interested in signing me very early, and I was really happy to stay in KHL. Then I began following the Ukraine conflict and started worrying about the team and the city of Donetsk. When the season was cancelled for us, I got really upset. Suddenly I had no contract, and it is always rather difficult for a foreigner to find a decent contract so close to season start. I was very lucky that a team like Traktor put together a deal in these troubled times.

What do you expect from the upcoming season?
What I really like about Traktor is team’s history and winning traditions. Sure, last season was not very successful, but two seasons prior Traktor was very good. I want to help Traktor return to where they were back in 2012 and 2013. Playing hockey and winning is the most pleasing thing of all in life, and I am sure many Chelyabinsk fans are eager to see their team back in the league finals.

Photo by Oleg Nedospasov, 74hockey.ru