Before begining of CJHL season we spoke with coaches of all teams of Carpathian Junior Hockey League. Hereby we bring you interview with Krzysztof ZĄBKIEWICZ, coach of STS UKS NIEDZWIADKI MOSIR SANOK.

What are your memories of your hockey beginnings? Who brought you to the hockey and where were your first hockey steps realised?

I was born in Sanok, (Poland) the town where ice hockey is the main sport and every little kid wants to become a hockey star. That actually was my dream too. When you are born in a place like this, there is no other way - you have to try hockey.

How was your hockey career developped? What do you consider to be your greatest hockey success?

I've started playing in Sanok's youth teams but quite fast started to practice with senior team. When I was 15, I joined Hockey School in Nowy Targ and Sosnowiec where I played in national teams U16, U18 and U20. I think my biggest success was playing on ECH U18 in Germany '98. I played some great tournaments against Canadiens.

When did you start with the coaching? Did you plan to become a coach already during your active hockey career?

When I was playing hockey I've never thought about becoming a hockey coach - playing was the most importnant. But during studies of physical education I started to interest more and more about coaching. After graduating I started working in Sanok.

Where have you been coaching till today?

As far I've been working in Sanok with teams in various age categories. In senior team as well. I also have some experience as a coach assistent in national team U18.

Do you have a coach-idol? What hockey style do you prefer?

For some time I was taking a lot from coach Nilsson. I do prefer active style of playing based on good physical preparation which alows to perform offensive hockey with role changing.

The most beautiful moment in your coach career?

My biggest coaching succes was to won national title with Sanok's junior team and another was to repeated it the next year. But the real succes is, when I see my team progress and enjoing hockey.

What would you like to achieve as a coach? Do you have a coach dream?

I wish I had all conditions needed to develope my players and whole Sanok's hockey.

With what targets do you enter CJHL?

Actually it's difficult to say. I hope to have some good, though games which would be a real challenge for my team.

Do you think that such international competition can help young players in their hockey development?

Definetely. Playing internationally is one of the best way to develope young players. Playing against various styles and levels can only improve the level. It is also very profitable in creating real sportsman - meeting new people and places is very valuable.

SHORT QUESTIONAIRE

The best player ever - Wayne Gretzky
The best active player - Patrick Kane
The most favorite team – national team of Finland
The most sport (exc. hockey) - cycling
The most favorite sportsman - Jaromir Jágr