Vasily Demchenko: Traktor only wants Gagarin Cup

What are your general impressions from the Chelyabinsk Oblast Governor Cup?
Well, we had a good tourney, although there are things that we need to correct. The fan support was awesome all throughout the season.

Was the objective of winning the tournament set by the management?
Management asked us to perform well before our fans. We had a great effort and won the tournament, which gives us a chance to start the season on an optimistic note.

How are the newest members of the roster doing?
They are doing just fine. We help them when they need it. As far as the foreign guys go, some of the boys from the team can speak English, so there is no language barrier. Plus, we have an interpreter that always helps us.

Do you think Traktor became stronger in the past months?
Yes, absolutely.

Has your competition with Pavel Francouz for the #1 goalie spot grown stronger?
We get along very well outside the hockey rink, I can tell you this much. Actually, the atmosphere in the locker room is pretty great too.

What are your impressions from participating in the Arizona Coyotes’ training camp?
Well, I had a great time there. Their preparation process is very much different from how it is done in Russia. One of the major differences is that players in North America hire their own fitness coaches and largely prepare for the season themselves.

What did the training sessions consist of?
The entire training camp lasted for five days. The whole bunch of players was divided into two parts – one was training on the ice, the other – on the ground. There also was a head-to-head game at the end of the camp. The style of hockey played there is simpler; as a goaltender, it was easier for me as well because skaters tried to take more shots. I liked it a lot, actually. I hope I get another chance to play there.

Are you planning on going to North America?
I still have to play one more year in Traktor; then, who knows.

Do you envy Andrei Vasilevsky?
No, why? I have a chance to play in the NHL myself.

What did the coaching staff of the Coyotes say after the training camp was over?
They thanked me and said they would be keeping an eye on me throughout the season.

How is your English?
I speak a little English, but I need to practice more.

What are your personal goals and Traktor’s goals for the upcoming season?
To win the Gagarin Cup. There can’t be any other goal. There is no use coming out on the ice if you are there to phone it in.