Here is the official statement from the KHL:

KHL Statement on Tragedy in Yaroslavl

On Wednesday, September 7th,  the sport of hockey witnessed a devastating loss. A YK-42 plane that  was carrying the Lokomotiv Yaroslavl hockey team to its first game of  the 2011/2012 Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) season in Minsk, crashed  while departing from Yaroslavl.

KHL statement regarding today’s tragedy in Yaroslavl:

“We are  only beginning to understand the impact of this tragedy affecting the  Lokomotiv Yaroslavl club and the international hockey community. First  and foremost, our condolences go out to the families and friends of the  players, coaches and staff lost in today’s tragedy.

“We  know that there are many in the KHL family who will be grieving with  us. As the investigation of this tragedy progresses we will work closely  with investigators, government officials, club executives and the  Yaroslavl community. We are working to find an appropriate way to honor  this club and begin the healing process from the deep loss so many of us  feel today.

“We  are aware that many of you have questions. This tragedy remains our  primary focus. We ask for patience as we find an appropriate way to  proceed with the 2011/2012 season. We will continue to communicate our  plans as they take shape.”

Quote from Artem Anisimov, courtesy of Jesse Spector:

“I know these people, half the team,” Anisimov said. “Young guys, we’ve grown up together, you know? In Russia, they have school – it’s one organization, Yaroslavl. You go to the hockey school growing up, play with the second team and then you grow up and play with the first team, so a bunch of young guys I know, and the medical staff, all the staff, I know too. So sad.”

“I feel like – it can’t happen. I don’t want to believe it. The news says plane crash, and I feel sick. I feel bad. Sitting in traffic coming here, I felt terrible.”

Quote from Mike Rupp, also courtesy of Jesse Spector:

“It’s one of those things that, we’re playing a sport, but anytime there’s a life lost, that’s something way bigger than anything we’re doing on the field or ice,” said Mike Rupp, who played with Rachunek for the Devils and called him a “quiet guy with a good sense of humor. It’s terrible, the hockey world’s had these tragic losses all summer, and it twists up your stomach. There’s not much more to say than that. Everyone I’ve talked to today just has that sick feeling, and that’s all I’m feeling right now.”

Share: 

More About: