Alex Galchenyuk: "Everything is of the highest level here"

HC SKA head coach Roman Rotenberg:

- We're happy to announce the signing of a two-year contract with Alex Galchenyuk. We are trying to sign the best players who suit our system, and Alex fully fits in with how we like to play the game both in terms of his personal and professional qualities. We're very happy! Welcome to SKA, Alex!

- When will Alex make his SKA debut?

- Let's take it step by step. Tomorrow we will train together and make a decision. All of us want Alex to take to the ice as soon as possible, so as coaches we will make a joint decision with regard to this matter. We're counting on Alex making his debut very soon.

- What qualities did you consider when signing Alex?

- We took into consideration his character, desire to win and his qualities as a person.

HC SKA forward Alex Galchenyuk:

- I'm really happy to have finally arrived. Everything is of the highest level here, from the city to the team. The same can be said for the coaching staff and the facilities. I want to help SKA win the championship, this is why I have travelled here. Hopefully I can contribute to the team's success.

- If we are to believe the rumours, a lot of KHL teams wanted to sign you. Why did you choose SKA?

- SKA is an organisation of the highest level, and the team has the most ambitious of targets. I respect all of the other teams and cities, but I dreamed of signing for this club. I'm glad that everything worked out.

- SKA have a lot of talented players. Are you afraid of the competition within the team?

- Competition is always a good thing. If a team is strong and competing for titles, then there is always competition for a spot in the line-up. We will all help each other to reach new heights.

- You speak excellent Russian. Do you speak Russian with your parents?

- Yes, we speak Russian together. However, I hadn't given an interview in the Russian language for a long time. It's something new for me.

- Your father played for SKA in the 2002/2003 season. Did he share that experience with you?

- Yes, we did speak about this, but I want to experience playing for SKA myself. I wouldn't say that my father played a big role in this move. When he played for SKA, I travelled to Saint Petersburg as a little boy, and I have only positive memories. It's a beautiful city. I'm happy that I managed to get a feel for the Ice Palace atmosphere today, and I can't wait until I take to the ice!

- How did you start playing ice hockey?

- My father put skates on me when I was one year and eight months old. For as long as I can remember, I have always been skating. He actually wanted me to start skating when I had just turned one, but he couldn't find any skates which fitted me.