Interview: Chris Abbott is happy to be in HV71

Welcome to HV71 Chris. How does it feel to be here?
- Thank you. It's been a great first week so far. I came in last Tuesday and everybody has been very welcoming and it's been first class. I'ts fun to have come to a new city and a new team. 

What made you take your decision about the move?
- I just felt at that time in my career that I was ready for a change personally and with six great years up north and my brother decided not to play anymore, I felt inside when the opportunity to come to Jönköping opened and they were interested in me, it was huge. I've always seen this team and organization as being in the top of the league. I got a call where they said they were interested in me and I'm very excited to be here and to help this team win. 

You've been playing with your brother for a long time. Since he decided to retire, you will be on your own. Will you miss having him by your side on the ice? 
- I will definitely miss him. I've been playing with my brother for 25-26 years and we always lived in the same city, not far apart for our whole lives, so definitely I will miss him. It's going to be an adjustment for me and I can only imagine for him not playing. But I think I also during a season in the past, I played 18 months without him cause of his injury. I know I can bring in the same to this team, as I did without him in Luleå. I'm confident in my own abilities and being alone is definitely going to be a challenge, but I think it's going to be good for med personally as well. 

In what way will you contribute to HV71?
- From their expectations that's been indicated to me, I'm going to do some of the same things as I've been doing in the past. I've been fairly successful doing that and I try to always compete and lead by an example with my work ethic and competitiveness. I want to bring that here and contribute offensively with every chance I get and just to take on every role they will give me in order for this team to win. That's my goal here and they made a commitment for two years and I'm looking forward to help this team win. 

How does it feel to be on the ice again?
- It's fun. In the end of a long season your'e ready for a break, but that quickly fades and obviously knowing I'm coming here I really look forward to get on the ice. It sure hurts a little, but I feel excited and great. 

HV71 preparing for 2015-2016

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