"Why not replicate my father's career". Konstantin Nizhegorodov on career goals, a period in Europe, and life in Kazan

A graduate of the Nizhny Novgorod hockey school, a pupil of the legendary coach Anatoly Bocharov, played in Europe for the Swiss and Slovak championships, and played in the VHL and the KHL.

In a recent interview, Nizhny Novgorod Torpedo forward Konstantin Nizhegorodov talked about his career, life in Europe and his hometown, as well as his plans for the future.

Childhood and hockey beginnings

I was born in Nizhny Novgorod, I have been involved in hockey since childhood. My father, Viktor Nizhegorodov, played for Torpedo, so I followed in his footsteps. He is my first coach.

Of course, it was more difficult to train with my father, because at home there was a double load of responsibility. But I liked it, I saw my father as an example and a mentor, so I tried to do everything like him.

Europe

After graduating from the hockey school, Nizhny Novgorod Torpedo, Nizhegorodov went to Europe, where he played for Swiss and Slovak clubs.

I wanted to try to play abroad. The Swiss championship is one of the strongest in the world, and it was very interesting for me to try my hand there. I played for two years in the Swiss championship and spent the same amount in the Slovakian.

The Swiss Championship is more organized, and the Slovakian Championship is more similar to what we have in the KHL. There are many good masters there. In Switzerland, I managed to see for myself what the training process is like, as well as hockey life in general.

Return to Russia

After playing in Europe, Nizhegorodov returned to Russia, where he played for VHL and KHL clubs.

In Russia, I played in the VHL for the Penza Diesel, and reached the final, where we lost. Then I played in the KHL for Khabarovsk Amur.

This year I signed a contract with Nizhny Novgorod Torpedo. I am very glad to be back in my hometown. I want to help my team achieve the highest possible result.

About plans

Nizhhegorodov shared his plans for the future.

I want to play in the KHL for as long as possible, and then become a coach. I would like to continue my father's work, who has been coaching for many years.

I think that I have the necessary experience and knowledge for this. I will try to convey all this to my players and help them achieve their goals.