Alexey Nikolaevich Mishin noted that a number of people in the group fell ill. When preparing for the Russian Championship, the team faced unexpected hurdles, and questions about illness naturally arose. The athlete described a disciplined approach to training, balanced with careful attention to health protocols and recovery strategies. In Krasnoyarsk, the team did everything possible to minimize risk, yet the unpredictable nature of the season meant adapting plans on the fly. A notable anecdote: Mishin recalled that last year, in Krasnoyarsk, illness struck the day after the free program. If it had happened even a day earlier, the course of events could have been very different. He expressed a touch of fate-driven gratitude for how things unfolded, accompanied by a light, self-aware smile.
— After earning the title at the previous Russian Championship, the skater expressed fondness for Krasnoyarsk and recalled multiple victories there. The interviewer asked about the evolving relationship with Chelyabinsk and its skating community. Mishin reflected on Chelyabinsk as a city of contrasts and growth. He reminisced about one of the toughest moments in his early career at the 2016 Russian Championships, when he was among the youngest competitors and endured a challenging short program. Yet the very next day, a turning point emerged as he delivered what he considers one of his best free skates, even landing a triple Axel that buoyed his confidence. Fast-forwarding to late 2020, he spoke about a difficult moment at the Russian adult championship in Chelyabinsk, followed by open skates where he managed to skate both programs cleanly, signaling a positive momentum that continued into the succeeding seasons.
— The presence of Tatyana Nikolaevna Mishina at this tournament was highlighted as especially meaningful. Mishin described her as far more than a coach, a guiding figure who brings a special influence to the team. He was grateful that she could participate in the championship and even more pleased that his performance met the expectations of the coaching staff, including her. Watching supporters on the sidelines, fists raised in encouragement, added a warm affirmation to the experience for the skater and the entire coaching group alike.
— When asked about the five competitors who outpaced him in the championship, Mishin introduced a few more names who play important roles behind the scenes. In addition to the head coach and the physical training instructor, two lesser-known team members were acknowledged: a massage therapist named Andrey and Nikita Pchelyakov, a skating coach who also serves as a new expert joining the ranks. The acknowledgment painted a fuller picture of the team’s collaborative effort and the shared push toward excellence.
— Looking ahead to the Russian Jumping Championships, questions arose about preparation and the plan for showcasing skills. Mishin answered with a candid optimism, noting that overly high expectations would be inappropriate given the evolving regulations. He hinted at the possibility of surprising audiences with a fresh approach, adding a playful smile to balance the uncertainty with a sense of anticipation.
— The show program tournament question came up again, and the skater affirmed a definite interest in participating. Rather than chasing placement, he saw the event as an opportunity to explore new concepts, craft a distinctive program, and delight the audience with something unexpected. The goal was to blend performance art with athletic precision in a way that would resonate with spectators.
— The topic of the creative direction of his show programs resurfaced, noting a pattern in which the pieces were linked by a shared initial letter and thematic tone. After the series that included Frost and Phantom in the earlier season, and Faun appearing in the summer, fans speculated about what might come next. Mishin shrugged with a light laugh, saying it was a coincidence he found amusing. He teased that the evening would reveal the next step once the music selection process began, leaving room for spontaneity and curiosity alike.
— When asked about immediate plans, Mishin described a short, well-deserved rest followed by a focused return to preparation for the upcoming shows. The routine would include several days off to reset, then a renewed commitment to training and performance. After the show commitments, he anticipated returning to a normal lifestyle and the comforting rhythm of everyday life at home.
— The question of whether December 31 would mark his first time back on the ice in that specific year drew a light, humorous reply. He recounted a memorable slip on the ice from a past holiday season when the group had festive training with Santa Claus, a moment that still brings a chuckle. It hinted at the blend of seriousness and lighthearted tradition that characterizes his approach to the sport.