In late March, EuroChem hosted the first “EuroChem Cup” junior hockey tournament. Taking place in Novomoskovsk, site of the company’s Novomoskovskiy Azot facility, the tournament gathered junior teams from Espoo (Finland), Antwerp (Belgium), as well as Kingisepp and Novomoskovsk (Russia).

For many, this was the first time playing internationally. While some players travelled from quite far, all quickly felt at home on the ice. Despite the oldest player being just 12, hockey fans were treated to some serious hockey. The tournament proved a great opportunity for the players and their parents to discover Moscow and Novomoskovsk and get a taste of Russian hospitality.

All were excited to share their impressions; “This is the first time I take part in an international tournament. The game is tense, but it’s fantastic! We are all so happy to be here!” said Matias Kutkune from the Espoo team.

“I loved this tournament.” Peter-Jan, a player from the Antwerp Phantoms, screamed in delight “Matches were difficult and perhaps we were not very lucky, but for sure we will train hard to be ready for next year’s tournament.”

Legendary Soviet hockey players Vladimir Petrov (nine-time world champion) and Boris Mikhailov (eight-time world champion) were on hand to present the young players with their awards at the end of the tournament. The home team finished first and took the cup with Kingisepp and Espoo coming second and third respectively.

Given the success of the tournament, EuroChem is already busy planning EuroChem Cup 2014, which will be expanded to include teams from Germany and Switzerland.

Additional pictures and video available at : http://inter-hockey.ru/photo