VP of Russian Hockey Federation: Russian players get 'empty promises' in North America

The Vice-President of the Russian Ice Hockey Federation didn't hold much back when asked about young Russians leaving their home country to play hockey in North America. Roman Rotenberg admitted Russia must do more to hold on to their young stars, but says those who leave don't always get what they are promised.

"We must build ice rinks, develop coaches. And do everything possible to ensure that all players stay in Russia," said Rotenberg in an interview with MatchTV.ru, adding that players the calibre of Nikita Kucherov are likely going to end up in North America anyway.

"But if a player goes to no one knows where and why, he hears a lot of empty promises of agents and managers in America," Rotenberg said. "Is that what distinguishes us from these managers and agents?"

Asked to elaborate on that, Rotenberg stated "When we speak, we are always responsible for our words. Here we claim that a hockey player in Russia will receive proper development. And you can ask those who remained...they will honestly say that at the time they made the right decision, staying to play in Russia."

While the KHL has come a long way since its inception, it is considered number two behind the NHL and likely always will be. The league and Russian hockey officials have desperately tried to hang on to players they believe will become stars, but the prospect of more money, recognition and a chance at the Stanley Cup draws many away. Still, Rotenberg seems adamant that Russia provides a better opportunity for them.

"Even when a player travels to the USA, Canada, other countries, he can compare - and sees that it is better in Russia."

"He understands that it is better to play and develop in Russia," Rotenberg said. "That in Russia the coaching approach is better, the ice, the hall, the shooting zones are better. We have new technologies."

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