President Kiska Receives Freshly Retired Slovak Hockey Star Visnovsky

President Kiska Receives Freshly Retired Slovak Hockey Star Visnovsky

Bratislava, March 3 (TASR) – Slovak President Andrej Kiska received former Slovak national ice hockey player Lubomir Visnovsky and asked him whether he wouldn’t like to continue his brilliant career, TASR learnt on Thursday.

Visnovsky insisted, however, that his career has come to an end. Nevertheless, Kiska has thanked him for an exemplary represenation of Slovakia and for spreading the good reputation of our state.

“I’ve met with Visnovsky to thank him on behalf of the whole country. He belongs to Slovakia’s golden generation, which is unfortunately coming to a close. I’ve always liked his offensive style of play, although he was a defender. I’m glad he wants to stay in Slovakia and help the hockey and sport as a whole. I’ll keep my fingers crossed for his upcoming projects,” stated Kiska.

Visnovsky, 39, was excited by the invitation to the Presidential Palace and will carry this meeting as a keepsake. “I was delighted to talk to him [Kiska], he’s a very pleasant man. I’ve gifted him my jersey with #17 from Slovan Bratislava and in turn I’ve received his photo with a signature,” said Visnovsky, admitting that he discussed various topics with Kiska.

Former NHL defenceman and World Champion from 2002 got to learn about the invitation on Wednesday, thus he had a little time to prepare and adjust his schedule.

Visnovsky was not only a fabulous player but also a charismatic person. He had to quit his career due to persistent injuries. He would like to spend more time with his children now as well as to focus on the development of new ice hockey talent in Slovakia.

Visnovsky ended his career last Saturday after the final KHL play-off duel with CSKA Moscow. “Everyone keeps asking me if I have definitely ended my career and everyone gets the same answer. I enjoyed playing ice hockey, but my health issues are too big for me to continue,” added Visnovsky.