Before begining of CJHL season we spoke with coaches of all teams of Carpathian Junior Hockey League. Hereby we bring you interview with Mircea Ciubotaru, coach of Gladiators Dunarea Galati.

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

My dad took me to hockey when I was 3 years old. It was in my hometown Galati.

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

I played hockey for Dunarea Galati until I was 30 years old, then I also played for Rapid Bucuresti and Steaua Bucuresti. For me is my greatest success that I was playing with the Romanian National team in the European Championship.

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

I began coaching during my career in 1998 at Dunarea Galati, so yes.

Where have you been coaching till today?

After I started at Dunarea I coached at Ager Galati. Then I worked as coach at Rochester United (High School, Michigan, USA) and after that at Corona Brasov.

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

Scotty Bowman. I prefer the Russian style.

The most beautiful moment in your coach career?

Coming second at Budapest Cup Tournament.

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

I would like to develop and also be a positive influence in the future of hockey players. I will like to coach the Romanian Junior National team.

With what targets do you enter CJHL?

To compete for the top spots and maybe win it all.

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

Yes, sure.

SHORT QUESTIONAIRE

The best player ever - Wayne Gretzky
The best active player - Pavel Datsyuk
Your most favourite hockey team – Detroit Red Wings
Your most favourite sport (exc. hockey) - soccer
Your most favourite sportsman - Nicklas Lidström