”We´ll try to uplift the team psychologically,” says new coach Václav Sŭkora
First, we will focus on reconditioning and tactical things. Then we´ll try to uplift the team psychologically. I´m sure the recent results have had a clear impact on the mood in the dressing room and we have to focus on that. I saw three of the last four games, and there are of course some gaming issues which will need to work on.
In 2010, you worked in the KHL with SKA St. Petersburg. How can that be used to your advantage?
My experience is not so vast, I was there one season, but I know more or less how most of the teams in the league play. Game styles do not change, even if there is a turnover of players and coaches.
What´s it like for you to join a team that you haven´t participated in building?
I´m experiencing it practically for the second time within a short time. It´s not so easy to learn players as you go along. I do know all of them, but most of them not in person. You need to deal with it. At the same time, I believe that a change could bring a positive approach to things, which might just be what´s needed. This team, especially at the start of the season, has shown it has great potential to compete for the KHL playoffs.
Have you had an opportunity to watch many of Lev´s games?
Most of the games I´ve seen, but certainly I´d like to consult with Josef Jandaè on some things and hear his views. We will meet around here a lot. I am very interested in his views, and we´ll have many things to discuss.
Are you looking forward to working with Jiĝí Kalous and Vitaly Karamnov?
I know Jiĝí Kalous very well, although we´ve never collaborated. We´ve spoken with each other quite often about each other´s team´s games. I think Jirka will be a big help, especially now at the beginning, when I´m coming to a new team.
Is it a big challenge for you?
The KHL is really the best league in Europe, so I take it as a really big challenge. Coaching work is basically the same everywhere, but when you work in the KHL, you´re working with top players and games are played at a high level.
