How can players improve their lacrosse stickwork. What are the key elements of effective wall ball practice. Which drills are most beneficial for developing stick skills. How does proper hand placement affect lacrosse performance. Why is wrist strength crucial in lacrosse.
The Fundamentals of Lacrosse Stickwork
Lacrosse stickwork is the cornerstone of every player’s skill set. Mastering the art of handling the stick effectively can significantly elevate a player’s performance on the field. The key to developing superior stickwork lies in consistent practice and focusing on the right techniques.
What makes stickwork so crucial in lacrosse? Effective stickwork allows players to:
- Pass and catch with precision
- Maintain ball control under pressure
- Execute complex dodges and fakes
- Shoot accurately and powerfully
The Power of Wall Ball Practice
Wall ball is a fundamental drill that every lacrosse player should incorporate into their training regimen. This simple yet effective practice method helps develop crucial skills and muscle memory. How does wall ball benefit players?
- Improves hand-eye coordination
- Strengthens wrist muscles
- Enhances catching and throwing accuracy
- Develops quick release and soft hands
To maximize the benefits of wall ball practice, players should follow these guidelines:
- Find a suitable wall (at least 10 feet tall, preferably smooth concrete)
- Stand 5-7 yards away from the wall
- Practice for at least 20 minutes per session
- Focus on proper technique rather than speed
- Incorporate a variety of drills to challenge different skills
Perfecting Hand Placement and Stick Position
Proper hand placement is crucial for effective stickwork. Where should players position their hands on the lacrosse stick? The top hand should be placed in the middle of the stick, while the bottom hand should be near the butt-end. This grip allows for maximum control and power when throwing and catching.
Equally important is the position of the stick itself. Players should keep the head of the stick in their “box area” – up by the ear. This ready position enables quick reactions and efficient movements during gameplay.
Key Points for Hand Placement and Stick Position:
- Top hand in the middle of the stick
- Bottom hand near the butt-end
- Stick head in the box area (by the ear)
- Maintain ready position at all times
Developing Wrist Strength and Snap
A strong wrist snap is essential for accurate and powerful throws in lacrosse. How can players develop this crucial skill? The key lies in consistent practice and focusing on proper technique during wall ball drills.
To improve wrist strength and snap:
- Start with 15-20 reps per throw type
- Gradually increase repetitions over time
- Focus on snapping the wrist during release
- Practice both overhand and sidearm throws
- Incorporate one-handed drills to isolate wrist movement
Essential Wall Ball Drills for Skill Development
A comprehensive wall ball routine should include a variety of drills to develop different aspects of stickwork. Here are some essential drills to incorporate into your practice:
One-Hand Drills:
- Catch and one cradle
- Split dodge (no cradle)
- Roll dodge (no cradle)
- Face dodge (no cradle)
- Quick stick (no cradle)
- Switch hands mid-air
Two-Hand Drills:
- Catch and release (overhand)
- Catch, fake, release (overhand)
- Quick stick (overhand, no cradle)
- Split dodge (overhand, no cradle)
- Face dodge (overhand, no cradle)
- Cross-body throws
- Bad pass drill
- Behind the back
- Around the world
Remember to practice these drills with both your strong and weak hands to develop ambidexterity.
Advanced Stickwork Techniques
As players progress in their stickwork skills, they can incorporate more advanced techniques into their practice routine. These techniques help players become more versatile and unpredictable on the field.
Advanced Stickwork Drills:
- Behind-the-back passes and catches
- One-handed cradling and throwing
- Multiple fake combinations
- Quick stick transitions between hands
- Off-hand shooting
How can players effectively incorporate these advanced techniques into their gameplay? The key is to practice these skills consistently in controlled settings before attempting them in game situations. Gradual integration and smart decision-making are crucial when employing advanced stickwork techniques.
Common Stickwork Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced players can fall into bad habits when it comes to stickwork. Identifying and correcting these mistakes is crucial for continued improvement. What are some common stickwork errors, and how can players avoid them?
Common Mistakes:
- “Pushing” the ball instead of snapping the wrist
- Improper hand placement on the stick
- Cradling too much or too little
- Neglecting weak-hand practice
- Focusing on speed over proper technique
To avoid these mistakes:
- Focus on proper wrist snap during throws
- Regularly check and adjust hand placement
- Practice efficient cradling techniques
- Dedicate equal time to strong and weak hand drills
- Prioritize form and accuracy over speed in practice
Incorporating Stickwork into Team Practices
While individual practice is crucial, integrating stickwork drills into team practices can significantly enhance overall team performance. How can coaches effectively incorporate stickwork into team training sessions?
Strategies for Team Stickwork Practice:
- Start practices with individual wall ball warm-ups
- Incorporate partner passing drills with movement
- Use small-sided games that emphasize stick skills
- Create competitions or challenges around stickwork drills
- Integrate stickwork into conditioning exercises
By consistently focusing on stickwork during team practices, coaches can help players develop better chemistry and more fluid gameplay.
The Role of Proper Equipment in Stickwork Development
The right equipment can significantly impact a player’s ability to develop and execute proper stickwork. What should players consider when selecting their lacrosse stick and other gear?
Key Equipment Considerations:
- Stick length appropriate for position and playing style
- Head shape and stringing that suits individual preferences
- Shaft material that provides the right balance of weight and durability
- Properly fitted gloves for optimal control
- Appropriate mesh or traditional pocket for desired ball control
How does equipment choice affect stickwork performance? The right stick can enhance a player’s natural abilities, while ill-fitting or poorly maintained equipment can hinder skill development. Regular maintenance and periodic reassessment of equipment needs are crucial for consistent stickwork improvement.
Mental Aspects of Stickwork Mastery
Developing superior stickwork isn’t just about physical practice; the mental aspect plays a significant role as well. How can players improve their mental approach to stickwork?
Mental Strategies for Stickwork Improvement:
- Visualization techniques for perfect form
- Mindfulness practices to improve focus during drills
- Positive self-talk to overcome frustration
- Goal-setting for steady skill progression
- Mental rehearsal of game situations
By combining physical practice with mental preparation, players can accelerate their stickwork development and perform more confidently in high-pressure situations.
Translating Stickwork Practice to Game Performance
The ultimate goal of stickwork practice is to improve performance during actual games. How can players effectively bridge the gap between practice and game situations?
Strategies for Game-Ready Stickwork:
- Incorporate game-like scenarios into practice drills
- Practice stickwork under simulated pressure
- Focus on decision-making skills alongside technical proficiency
- Use scrimmages to apply stickwork skills in realistic settings
- Analyze game footage to identify areas for improvement
By consistently challenging themselves to perform stickwork skills in varied and realistic contexts, players can develop the confidence and adaptability needed for high-level game performance.
The Evolution of Stickwork in Modern Lacrosse
As lacrosse continues to evolve, so do the techniques and expectations surrounding stickwork. How has stickwork changed in recent years, and what trends are emerging?
Modern Stickwork Trends:
- Increased emphasis on ambidexterity
- Growing popularity of one-handed techniques
- Integration of skills from other sports (e.g., basketball handles)
- Use of technology for stickwork analysis and training
- Adaptation to rule changes affecting stick specifications
Players and coaches who stay abreast of these trends and incorporate them into their training can gain a competitive edge on the field.
Stickwork for Different Positions
While solid stickwork is essential for all lacrosse players, the specific skills emphasized may vary depending on position. How do stickwork requirements differ across the field?
Position-Specific Stickwork Focus:
- Attackmen: Quick release, accurate shooting, creative dodges
- Midfielders: Versatile skills, transitional passing, on-the-run shooting
- Defenders: Checking techniques, long-range passing, ground ball skills
- Goalies: Quick stick saves, outlet passes, hand-eye coordination
By tailoring stickwork practice to position-specific needs, players can maximize their effectiveness on the field and contribute more significantly to their team’s success.
Measuring Progress in Stickwork Development
Tracking improvement in stickwork skills is crucial for maintaining motivation and identifying areas for further development. How can players and coaches effectively measure progress in stickwork?
Methods for Assessing Stickwork Improvement:
- Timed repetition drills to measure speed and accuracy
- Video analysis to assess form and technique
- Skills challenges with quantifiable results
- Regular performance evaluations in practice and games
- Tracking statistics related to stickwork (e.g., shooting percentage, successful passes)
By implementing a systematic approach to measuring progress, players can stay motivated and focused on continuous improvement in their stickwork skills.
The Future of Lacrosse Stickwork Training
As technology and sports science continue to advance, the methods for developing lacrosse stickwork are likely to evolve. What might the future hold for stickwork training?
Potential Future Developments:
- Virtual reality training simulations
- AI-powered stickwork analysis and feedback
- Biomechanical sensors for technique refinement
- Advanced materials for stick construction
- Integration of cross-sport training methodologies
While these advancements may enhance training methods, the fundamental importance of consistent practice and proper technique will likely remain at the core of lacrosse stickwork development.
Wall Ball – The Mooser Experience
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To become one with you stick you need to put the time in on the wall. Passing and catching is the most important skill in lacrosse. Beginners almost always start out by “pushing” the ball. “Pushing” will cause the ball to leave the stick in a low trajectory with very little control. Proper way to throw the ball is to snap your wrist. An excellent way to develop snapping your wrist is to utilize the wall. Go to a cinderblock, brick wall, wooden wall, or rebounder and stand approximately 5-7 yards away. Any wall will work (no windows), but a smooth concrete surface at least 10 feet tall is the best.
By setting up a wall ball routine and setting aside time you will start to see improvements over time. Increasing the reps will make your wrist become stronger. In the beginning start off with a range of 15-20 reps for each throw. Over the course of the time, aim for as many reps as possible. The goal is to strength your wrist, create soft hands, snap your wrist, gain hand speed, and develop a quick release
Hand Placement
When performing wall ball you always want to make sure your hands are in the ready position at all time and the head of your stick is in your box area. Your “box area” is having the head of your stick up by your ear. Your hands should be in the ready position the entire time. Have your top hand in the middle of the stick and your bottom hand near the butt-end. Do not snatch for the ball. Make sure to accept the ball, “Soft Hands” (think Mighty Ducks). When throwing you want to snap your top hand wrist. While practicing on the wall make sure to to protect your stick with you body. Have your body turned and your outside shoulder pointing to your target.
Few Reminders
- Find a flat brick or concrete wall at least 10 feet high, the longer the better
- Use both hands with every drill that you perform
- Wearing gloves is always a good idea when practicing. You want a practice/game feel.
- Stand 5-7 yards away from the wall
- You routine goal should be at least 20 minutes in length
- It is okay to make mistakes. You are going to have bad throw and miss some balls. Just move on to the next rep.
- Most importantly have fun with wall ball. The more time you put into this the better/more confident you will become as a player.
Wall ball drills
1 Hand Drills (Only your top hand on your stick. This will help with understand how to snap your wrist)
- Catch and 1 cradle
- Spilt dodge (no cradle)
- Roll dodge (no cradle)
- Face dodge (no cradle)
- Quick stick (no cradle)
- Throw left/catch right then throw right/catch left. (Switch hands while ball is in the air)
2 Hand Drills (Both hands on the stick. Hands are in the ready (attack) position. Head of stick in your box area.) Make sure to perform drills both with your strong hand and weak hand.
- Catch and Release (Overhand)
- Catch and 1 cradle (Overhand)
- Catch, Fake, Release (Overhand)
- Catch and 1 cradle ( third quarters/side arm)
- Catch and 1 cradle (underhand)
- Quick Stick (Overhand. No cradle)
- Quick Stick (Overhand. No cradle. change hands each time you throw the ball while the ball is in the air)
- Spilt Dodge (Overhand. No cradle) (Throw right – Catch right – Split dodge – Throw Left) (Throw Left- Catch Left- Split dodge – Throw Right)
- Face Dodge (Overhand. No cradle) (Catch – Face dodge – Throw)
- Cross Body Throws (“cross handed” means stick in right hand on the left side of body, or stick in left hand on right side of body (one quick cradle each time
- Bad Pass (For this drill you want to practicing catching the ball across your body. Start by throwing the ball with your right hand. Aim for the left side of your body. Catch the ball by moving your stick across your body. After catching, bring your stick back into your box area. )
- Back Hand Pass
- Behind the Back
- Around the World
- Switch hands (Throw Right – Catch Left – Throw Left – Catch Right) (Switch hands in the air)
- Be creative
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Lot of great stick work ideas in here! 👏🔥@kristenkjellmanlax . .#girlslacrosse #l axislife #l acrosselife #l acrosseislife #l acrossegirls #l acrossegirl #l axgame #l acrossestick #l acrosseplayer #l acrossedrills #l axtraining #w allball #l acrossehighlights #w omenslacrosse #l acrossepractice #l axdrills # stickwork #s tickworkout #l acrosse #l axgirl #l axgirls #l acrossetraining
438 Likes, TikTok video from Lax in the 305 (@laxinthe305): “Lot of great stick work ideas in here! 👏🔥@kristenkjellmanlax . .#girlslacrosse #laxislife #lacrosselife #lacrosseislife #lacrossegirls #lacrossegirl #laxgame #lacrossestick #lacrosseplayer #lacrossedrills #laxtraining #wallball #lacrossehighlights #womenslacrosse #lacrossepractice #laxdrills #stickwork #stickworkout #lacrosse #laxgirl #laxgirls #lacrossetraining”. original sound – Lax in the 305.
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Practice tough stick work!! #repost @elite_lax_drills on insta #girlslacrosse #lacrosselife #lacrossegirls #lacrossegirl #lacrosseplayer #lacrossedrills #laxtraining #wallball #lacrossehighlights #womenslacrosse
8. 2K Likes, 128 Comments. TikTok video from Lax in the 305 (@laxinthe305): “Practice tough stick work!! #repost @elite_lax_drills on insta #girlslacrosse #lacrosselife #lacrossegirls #lacrossegirl #lacrosseplayer #lacrossedrills #laxtraining #wallball #lacrossehighlights #womenslacrosse”. original sound – Lax in the 305.
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Always love a good stick work chaos drill! @kutztownwlax #lacrosse #girlslacrosse #lacrosselife #lacrossegirls #lacrossegirl #lacrosseplayer #lacrossedrills #laxtraining #wallball #lacrossehighlights #womenslacrosse
547 Likes, TikTok video from Lax in the 305 (@laxinthe305): “Always love a good stick work chaos drill! @kutztownwlax #lacrosse #girlslacrosse #lacrosselife #lacrossegirls #lacrossegirl #lacrosseplayer #lacrossedrills #laxtraining #wallball #lacrossehighlights #womenslacrosse”. original sound – Lax in the 305.
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Puttin in work with the girls💪 #x10 #x10lax #x10Lacrosse #X10Colorado #StickTricks #LacrosseSkills #LaxDrills #LacrosseDrills #Drills #LacrosseStick #LaxTricks #summercamp #summer #Colorado #GlenwoodSprings #Mountains #Rockys #Mountain
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BTBs, Twizzlers, Around the World, practice it all! 👏🔥 @brownwlax #lacrosse #lacrossehighlights #lacrosselife #lacrossedrills #girlslacrosse
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lacrosse. President of the Lacrosse Federation 6×6
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LAcrosse
up
Dmitry Khamin
President of the 6×6 Lacrosse Federation
Player of the Russian national team at the World Cup 2014, 2018 and
European Championship 2016
Certified coach (US Lacrosse,
World Lacrosse) 9002 5 Tsukanov Evgeniy
Head of the Moscow Region
departments
Player of the Russian national team at the 2018 World Cup and
European Championship 2016
Alexander Zarubin
Head of the Moscow branch
Player of the Russian national team at the 2014 World Cup and
assistant coach at the 2016 European Championship,
World Cup 2018
International Referee
HISTORY
SUMMARY
Lacrosse is a
contact sport between two teams using
a small rubber ball and a
special stick. The goal of the game
is to throw the ball into the opponent’s goal
with a stick
.
TIME AND PLACE OF START
The game was invented by the American Indians, who used it
to train warriors and peacefully resolve conflicts
between tribes. According to archaeological research
, the prototype of lacrosse was known in
territory of modern Canada already at the beginning of the 15th century.
Teams at that time often consisted of several hundred
people, and the length of the field for the game ranged from
several hundred meters to several kilometers.
European settlers got acquainted with this game in the
17th century, and by the beginning of the 19th century it began to gain popularity among the
French population of Canada.
The first official lacrosse match took place in Canada in
1867.
Lacrosse was twice included in the program of the
Summer Olympic Games – in 1904 and 1908, and also
was a demonstration sport at the 1928,
1932 and 1948 Olympics.
VARIETY
GAMES
LACROSSE
BOX LACROSSE
6×6 LACROSSE
LACROSSE
WORLDWIDE
Members of the International
Lacrosse Federation (WL)
are 73 countries,
European federation
lacrosse (ELF) – 33 countries
World Cups
and European lacros
World Cups
on Box-Cossus
Youth Championships of
Mira and Europe
Membership of Russia in WL C
2011, in EFL since 2015
One of the fastest
developing
sports in the world
LACROSSE
IN THE WORLD
LACROSSE
AT OI
8 REGIONAL REGIONS
DEVELOPMENT LEAGUE
LACROSS
BALTIC
LEAGUE
NATIONAL TEAM 9 0025 RUSSIA
The Russian team took part in
world championships
2014 and 2018, in the European Championship
2016
Teams from Russia
regularly take
prizes in club tournaments
in Europe
The Russian team will participate in
qualifying games for the World Championship
2023
CHILDREN
Lacrosse
3 sections in Moscow and
Odintsovo
2 sections in Yaroslavl
15 competitions in the EKP
Moscow
Participation in
international tournaments
Annual sports lacrosse camp
More than 40 master classes in schools,
colleges, universities and
sports clubs
Participation in more than 10
sports festivals
and exhibitions
20 teams took part
in the league final
“ROSPROFZHEL” in lacrosse
OUR GOALS
Organization of the 900 series 25 master classes at
your university
Organization
intercollegiate tournament
in lacrosse 6×6
Organization
sports section for
lacrosse in your university
Inclusion of lacrosse in the
MSCI program
WE PROVIDE:
All necessary
sports equipment for playing lacrosse
(Sticks,
helmets, protection, goals)
Teaching methods
for playing lacrosse and working
coaches
FOR WHOM:
Anthropometric
parameters are not important
Lacrosse is suitable for everyone
Most easy lacrosse
is given to athletes of
game types: hockey,
basketball, football
English
Russian
Rules
90,000 Svechnikov in Kazan: met with a children’s coach, showed a lacrosse goal, shared a dream to bring the Stanley Cup to Kazan
The Karolina star held a master class for the Ak Bars academy.
This week the pupils of the Ak Bars Hockey Academy, born in 2010, had a chance to train with the NHL star and, no less important, the pupil of Ak Bars Andrey Svechnikov . The forward spends the off-season in Kazan and responded to the request of his children’s coach to work with the guys.
Svechnikov tried to teach his trademark goal and shared the main formula for success: 10% talent and 90% work.
Andrey Svechnikov / photo (here and below): Ak Bars press service
“At the age of 12 he was tall, ungainly…
Last season was the best in his career for Svechnikov. In the regular season, the striker scored 69 (30 + 39) points in 78 games, becoming the second top scorer for the Carolinas. The team took second place in the Eastern Conference, but was again eliminated in the second round of the Stanley Cup, losing in seven games to the Rangers Artemy Panarin and Igor Shesterkin . Andrei does not have to worry about his future and contract. The agreement with the club was extended a year ago, and for a period of eight years.
Soon Svechnikov will have to prepare for the new season and go back to the USA. And he traditionally spends the rest of his vacation in Kazan. The idea to hold a master class for the pupils of Ak Bars arose by itself. Kazan is not a foreign city for Andrey. After all, he himself is a pupil of the Kazan club, for which he played from 10 to 16 years old. And his youth coach Airat Mirkhanov still works at Ak Bars and is now raising guys born in 2010.
“At the age of 12, he was tall and ungainly. But you can’t take one away from him – the thirst for victory. For him it was very important. In training, it somehow turned out that during a two-way match his five lost. He was upset and even a little freaked out. I said that it doesn’t happen that you win everything. And he said he only wants to win. This says a lot about his attitude,” Mirkhanov said.
Andrey Svechnikov (left) and Airat Mirkhanov
“The Ak Bars School had a great influence on me. I came here when I was 10, there was a very good team. Airat Talgatovich gave us a lot in these five years, taught us a lot. I always, like a sponge, absorbed his words, always listened. This is one of the best schools in Russia. We went to the coolest tournaments. After all, this is a strong rivalry – you have to play with CSKA, Dynamo. Some do not have such a chance, but we had all the conditions to develop in hockey, ”Svechnikov told BUSINESS Online.
So it turned out that the usual everyday practice the day before the start of the school year became a real holiday for young hockey players. Although the appearance of a star hockey player in front of them was not a surprise either. It was known that Svechnikov was in Kazan. A few days earlier, the forward took part in the Golden Puck hockey festival, where he played on the same site with the Minister of Sports of the Russian Federation Oleg Matytsin , the mayor of Kazan Ilsur Metshin , as well as famous hockey players Danis Zaripov , Alexey Morozov and others.
“I always had the idea in my head to come and make children happy, to pass on experience, to teach something. Of course, you can’t learn much in one session. But still, the most important thing is that you motivate the guys with your participation, cheer them up. Taking a photo or just driving around is still nice,” Svechnikov told BUSINESS Online.
“We need to make more use of our NHLers when they come to Russia. Show the boys that there are no unattainable goals. If you have a dream, then you can achieve it. Here’s a living example, you don’t have to go anywhere. It’s good that he agreed to this. This says a lot about him. Today’s training can give the boys a serious boost. The boys are delighted, ”Mirkhanov shared his opinion.
Entering the ice, the 2nd pick of the 2018 NHL Draft greeted the boys, hitting them with fists. Svechnikov was dressed in the Carolina tracksuit. After training, one of the youngsters literally begged Andrey to exchange caps with him. But the star hockey player politely refused, explaining that he himself had only one at the moment, and would need more in the near future.
The joy of a lacrosse goal
The training itself was divided into several blocks. First, the guys warmed up, having trained the dribble and beat the defender. This was followed by a passing, opening and throwing exercise. After that, the guys circled the racks with a snake, making a circle for each one. Svechnikov demonstrated everything by his own example. He practiced each element, showing the children his perfected technique. While waiting for his turn, Andrei drove up to the boys and showed how to pick up and then mint the puck with a stick.
“I arrived an hour before the start, we discussed the lesson program. Airat Talgatovich gave a couple of exercises, then I showed them. They were on the tech. There is a new game – showed to the left, removed to the right for sharpness. Because it doesn’t matter when you enter the zone, you don’t have enough space, and you need to make a small U-turn, remove it on the snail, ”said Svechnikov, who constantly exchanges opinions with Mirkhanov on various issues during training.
“We discussed which exercise is better to do. He asked why I do something. I explained how I lay the body to the left, put my shoulder a little and turn to the right. There is a small moment that when you enter the zone, you lay it half aboard to the left. The defender is still next to you, and you turned around, shook him a little, ”added Andrey.
The training ended with a real art – the boys practiced the lacrosse goal. This element is already a real feature of Svechnikov. After all, he was the first in the history of the NHL to score a goal in this style, picking up the puck on the hook behind the gate and bringing it over the ribbon. And he did it at the age of 19. Mirkhanov himself asked Andrey to teach the children some hockey magic. Of course, during training, when the goalkeeper knows exactly what the striker will do, it is more difficult to score, the element of surprise disappears. But, when one of the guys still managed to get the puck into the goal, he was so happy that, throwing up his hands, he lay down on the ice.
Svechnikov explained a couple of details and then watched, periodically assessing and encouraging the children. After all, the star forward himself began to learn lacrosse from a young age, and thanks to his older brother Evgeny Svechnikov – , also a pupil of Ak Bars and an NHL club player. “Always coached. We skated somehow in the summer, then my brother was in training. He got out and threw it that way. I drove up and said, they say, come on, bro, teach me. Since then I have been practicing,” Andrey said.
“Talent is ten percent of success, and work is ninety percent”
It was no less interesting after the ice. Svechnikov with Mirkhanov, as well as with another coach of the team, Roman Vildanov , gathered the children in the locker room and arranged something like a press conference. Andrei started the conversation with the importance of hard work: “I got into Ak Bars at the age of 10, I trained, tried, tried to be the best.