This is when having a Belarusian buddy really pays off.
Geno brought the Stanley Cup to Magnitogorsk, back to the Metallurg team he once played for. There were mixed emotions in the crowd, as a decent number of Russians are still hurt at how he left for the Pens.
Anyway, Stan translated Geno’s hometown speech, seen here at the 2:15 mark, because I know you don’t speak Russian. Check it out below.
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“First of all I’d like to thank my parents, my mom and my dad. They have always believed and supported me. I’d also like to thank my first coach. He also always believed in me, he put his love and soul into training me. Of course I also want to thank Magnitogorsk Metallurgical Kombinat. Thank you very much for this sports complex. Thank you for the 2 best ice rinks in Russia, in my opinion, that have raised a lot of good players, and will raise future stars. It doesn’t matter where we play, we always represent Magnitogork and Metallurg, the team I played for and colors I defended. Any trophy won by me or any other player will be brought to this city of Magnitogork.
(Some applause some boos in the crowd)
I would also like to thank all of the fans out there. Thank all of you that came here today. All those that were cheering for our team… (pause, as if he wanted to say Penguins) …Metallurg. I want to wish Metallurg many many wins and winning gold in the next season. Thank you.”
