Jan Bulis: I am almost certain that upcoming season will be my last in Traktor

How was the training camp?
I flew over to Garmisch straight from the Czech Republic. First three days were very difficult – the last time I was on the ice was back during the Cup of Hope, which makes it four months. Of course I regularly visited the gym, rode a bicycle during the offseason, but that is another matter.

Where did you spend your vacation?
I spent two weeks in Dubai along with my family, then returned to Czech Republic. I haven’t been home in eight months, so I returned to sort out the things I had to do.

Traktor signed your compatriot Martin Ruzicka. Are you helping him to adapt in the new environment?
Martin and I have already become friends. I hadn’t shown him the city yet – we have just returned to Chelyabinsk. Of course I amhelping him alot. We eat out together, go to the trainings together, and so on.

You must have put in a word for Martin, right?
No, of course not (laughs)! I found out from the press that Martin was heading to Traktor.

Rumor has it you have been thinking about retirement. How did the management make it possible to persuade you to stay?
I said I might play some more, and that was exactly how it turned out. However, this is almost a certainty that the upcoming season will be my last in Traktor. I am 36, my daughter is going to go to school, so I have to spend more time with my family. Of course before I retire, I want to win something. We had two good matches in Garmisch, the team has a new coach and new players. I think it’s all in our hands.

Will you return to the Czech Republic in 2015 or be done playing hockey altogether?
I will think about it after the New Year. I don’t want to play in my home country; I will either stay here or retire altogether.