The congratulatory message reads, in part:
"You rightly belong to the constellation of brilliant exponents of the school of Russian hockey - talented, ambitious, strong-willed and charismatic people who made an unforgettable contribution to the annals of Russian sporting achievement.
"Your responsible coaching and your contribution to the victories won by Russia's national team, including the world championship gold in 2008 and 2009, deserve the utmost sincere respect."