Rustam Minnikhanov: “We are expecting new achievements from “Zenit-Kazan”

On September 29, Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov, Chairman of Tatarstan State Council Farid Mukhametshin, Director General of OOO “Gasprom Transgas Kazan” Rafkat Kantyukov, team players, coaches and fans took part in solemn opening of new season of “Zenit-Kazan” volleyball club at the International information centre (Universiade Village).

The official part of the ceremony began with introduction of new players and Rustam Minnikhanov welcomed players and fans: “Today we are starting a new season. Our team won at different championships and we hope that this season will be successful.”

The President thanked team players, coaches and sponsors, especially OAO “Gasprom” and company’s Board Chairman Aleksey Miller.

“Due to achievements of our team volleyball has become very popular in the republic. About 6, 000 children play volleyball at and youth sports schools. By and large, 45, 000 people play volleyball in Tatarstan. I am sure that this number will increase. “Zenit-Kazan” is a pride of our republic,” Rustam Minnikhanov said.

Rustam Minnikhanov handed the letter of gratitude to the club members, who in their turn gave a gold medal of Russian championship to the President.
Chief Coach of the club Vladimir Alekno and Olympic Champion Aleksandr Volkov thanked fans and club management for support.

The first game will be held on October 4 at the Volleyball Centre «Saint Petersburg».