Alexander Barkov, who won the Stanley Cup’s first Finnish captain, visited the White House in the traditional way.
Alexander Barkov got to know the US President’s official residence on Monday when Donald Trump Received the ruling NHL master in the traditional way in a white house.
The Finnish captain of the Florida Panthers was impressed by the Washington visit.
– I’m not an American, but it was still a great honor to get into a white house, see the president and squeeze his hand. Being in the same room with him is special. Such moments remember for the rest of their lives, Barkov said.
Barkov has also been recognized in Finland, where he was selected as the first ice hockey player as the Athlete of the Year. He has also been able to meet the president Alexander Stubbinwho awarded Barkov in December the Finnish Lion’s Order Sign.
According to Barkov, honors tell a lot about what the achievement of the Stanley Cup is.
– As a hockey player, you want to win the Stanley Cup. Then, when you succeed, you can receive a variety of tribute and achievements. Of course, meeting both the Finnish and the President of the United States is a great honor. So everything was worth it.
The Panthers first took a round in the White House, after which Trump made a speech to the team. He also congratulated Barkov separately.
– Trump said he was watching the games. It says that winning the Stanley Cup is a big deal. We are really taken here.
The Panthers players were also able to visit the President’s office in Oval Office.
– It was great. Many important decisions have certainly been made there. It was great to get there to take pictures with him (Trump). Everyone knows this house and its history. It was an honor to spend a couple of hours here.