Fashion Lighting Player Spotlight – Valentin Zhugin
Born in Magnitogorsk, Russia., seven-teen-year-old Valentin Zhugin was drafted 54th overall in the CHL Import Draft. Previously playing for the Stalnye Lisy Magnitogorsk of the MHL, the 5’11, 185lbs. left-handed forward had an impressive 2020-2021 season recording 10-goals and 15-assists in 44 games. In 34 games so far this season Valentin has recorded 8-goals and 6-assists.
HOW IT STARTED
Q: When and how did you become involved in hockey?
A: “One day when I was young, I was in the car with my dad, and we drove by a rink. He asked me if I wanted to play hockey and I said yes.”
Q: Are there any players you style your game after, and if so, who?
A: “Connor McDavid because he is fast and plays a very skilled game.”
Q: Who would you say is your biggest support system?
A: “My parents because they support me so much and sacrificed so much for me.”
HOW IT’S GOING
Q: How has your experience in Guelph been so far?
A: “Everything has been great. It’s an unbelievable group of guys and a great team of staff.”
Q: How would you describe the energy of this year’s team?
A: “Everyone is so close together and we bound together really well. Everyone comes together every day at the rink to work hard.”
Q: What motivates you to work hard?
A: “I want to be the best every day.”
LOOKING FORWARD
Q: What are you personally working on the most this season?
A: “Everything in general just to gain overall strength.”
Q: Where do you see yourself in five years?
A: “The NHL.”
Q: What’s a piece of advice you’d give to someone pursuing an OHL career?
A: “Keep working hard.”
RANDOM RAPID FIRE
Q: Spotify or Apple music?
A: Spotify
Q: Jeans or sweatpants?
A: Sweatpants
Q: Tacos or wings
A: Tacos
Q: If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
A: Guelph
Q: What is your go-to cheat meal?
A: Burgers
Q: What is your favourite holiday?
A: Christmas
Q: What song would you sing at karaoke night?
A: The Motto by Drake
