Chairman of the SKA Board of Directors Vitaly Markelov talks about the club's future

On when the new SKA Board of Directors will start working...

"The new Board of Directors has indeed already been formed and, starting from 31 May, has started work. I can also note that the club is continuing to operate as normal, including the sporting and administrative aspects."

First steps to be taken by the Board of Directors...

"The main thing is to take advantage of the opportunities which the off-season gives us. We will pay special attention to the sporting side of things. Of course, this concerns the strengthening of the team.

"The SKA budget will be confirmed at the upcoming meetings, alongside other important club decisions. We're counting on our decisions having a positive effect on our results on the ice. We have a lot of work ahead of us. Furthermore, I would like to point out that SKA will continue to pay a lot of attention not only to the senior team, but also to the development of young players and junior hockey. In accordance with this strategy, we have decided to organise the Gazprom Hockey Cup again. 

The Board decided to name Igor Larionov as the new SKA head coach. I'm sure that his rich and unique experience - both as a player and a coach - will help SKA achieve success. Moreover, another important factor was Igor's ability to help young players develop."

Some words for SKA fans...

"First of all, I would like to thank the fans for supporting SKA so well! They are always with the team, regardless of the circumstances. Their loyalty is something which SKA greatly appreciates.

"The club boasts huge development potential, and, as the Board of Directors, we will try to use it to its maximum. All of our latest decisions have been made with the goal of improving SKA's results and consequently making the fans happy."