Netminders are in a league of their own in the hockey world. Some are superstitious; some have specific rituals and routines. Regardless, they operate on a different level. That’s because they are relied upon to be the brick walls, big as houses, the last line of defence when it matters most. With all of this pressure, though, they seldom show fatigue and, in fact, are composed and in control. Andrei Kareyev of TPS Turku is no different. If one was asked to describe Kareyev in one word, it would be “focused”. Above all else, he faces challenges with a kind of confident concentration and his efforts have helped lead Turku to their sixth Champions Hockey League qualification.
For most of his career, Kareyev saw action in Russian leagues. Before joining Turku in the 2020/21 season, the goaltender from Moscow played for seven different teams from three different leagues – MHL, KHL, and VHL. In that span, Kareyev amassed an impressive statistical resume. Looking ahead, however, his achievements of the past don’t matter much as his sole focus lies in preparing for his first CHL appearance.
"The personal goal is to win in every game."TPS Turku's Andrei Kareyev
Echoing players past and present, Kareyev understands the significance surrounding the competition and is excited to be a part of it saying: “It will be an interesting experience for both me and our entire team. I am glad that I have the opportunity to play in this tournament.” Considering the prestige of play in this tournament, when asked if his preparation was different from other campaigns, he assured that it wasn't. “No, it's not different. I am still focused on the work that I did before," he said
In this past season with TPS Turku – his first stint with them – Kareyev managed to secure Liiga silver medal and was awarded the Liiga Player of the Month for March. In 36 games played, he posted a 1.98 goals-against average to go along with a .917 save percentage and 3 shutouts. Consequently, his performance made an impact with the front office in Turku who offered him a contract extension. How does he feel about this commitment to Turku? “I am focused on having a good season with TPS. And then we'll see,” he explained.
That focus will be essential to Kareyev moving forward; he admits, however, that his play was not a singular effort but a product of the work put in by the players and the staff around him. According to Kareyev, the success of Turku “is teamwork.” He also gives credit to the staff saying, “our goalkeeping coach Ari Moisanen works with me and helps me develop.” Kareyev went on to assure that, “on the eve of the CHL, we will also continue to work to achieve a good result.”
TPS Turku haven’t competed in the CHL since the 2018/19 season. After a two-season absence, the Finnish club will be back hoping to improve on their early Group Stage exits. To do so, Kareyev will have to be at his best against the likes of the Växjö Lakers, Sparta Prague, and newcomers Pinguins Bremerhaven to begin the competition.
“It will be interesting to play with all the teams,” he notes, but says there’s no one team he’s eyeing off the bat: “I don't even know who to single out.” With a wealth of talent across the league, though, Kareyev won’t be starving for good competition.
"This is a good organization with great history. Playing in TPS, you need to conform to the traditions and get good results."TPS Turku's Andrei Kareyev on what it means to play for TPS
Bremerhaven will be Kareyev’s first test, but the novelty of the match-up doesn’t seem to phase the netminder at all. He admits that he doesn’t know much about his opponents and plans to do research not too long before their contest. “I think on the eve of the game, the coaching staff will show us a video of this team and we will do an analysis.”
In fact, the 26-year-old doesn’t feel much pressure going into the campaign. “I don't feel it yet. Focusing on the important things will help me in this,” he explains. Important things include helping his team achieve victory by staying in the moment and enjoying the experience. He reiterates, “I will just concentrate on my important things and enjoy hockey!” At this stage, at his age, Kareyev's attitude towards the game bodes well for those hoping to see Turku make a run for the trophy.
A confident, focused goaltender is the foundation for every successful team, and it appears that’s what TPS Turku have found in Kareyev. He’s grateful for the experience and recognises what it means to put on the storied sweater. “This is a good organization with great history. Playing in TPS, you need to conform to the traditions and get good results,” he says.
"I will just concentrate on my important things and enjoy hockey!"TPS Turku's Andrei Kareyev on how he plans to make the most of this experience
As traditions go, Kareyev hopes to continue those set by his predecessors. As personal goals go, he has one cemented in his mind: “The personal goal is to win with the team in every game.” Concise, confident, composed and, above all, focused. Kareyev’s steadfast concentration and uncompromisingly direct approach are sure to reassure TPS supporters that this year could see their team reach the Finals for the first time.
Pressure? None whatsoever. Focus? In spades. Kareyev has the capability to carry his team to the next level, and for Finnish hockey this is great news. As for European hockey, Kareyev is excited to see what comes about. “I think that hockey in Europe is at a good level.” He goes on to say, “and I like the fact that I will take part in this competition (CHL).”
It won’t be long before Kareyev gets to showcase his talent to the greater European hockey world. With the first game set to be played in just two weeks, Kareyev and TPS will have their hands full. But rather than let the magnanimity of the situation get the better of him, Kareyev is looking at this challenge as a way “to improve [his] game and keep the focus on the important things.”