American defender Brennan Menell reflects on his visit to SKA Arena and the city of St. Petersburg
American defenseman Brennan Menell, who plays for Dynamo Moscow in the Kontinental Hockey League, shared his impressions after stepping into the expansive SKA Arena in St. Petersburg. The moment stood out not just for the ice and style of play but for the sheer scale of the venue and the energy in the stands.
Menell described the arena as extraordinary. He was surprised by its size and the lively crowd inside, noting that the atmosphere felt reminiscent of top-tier venues in the United States and Canada. The facilities and overall experience left a strong impression, underscoring how a modern hockey arena can blend capacity with comfort and fan-focused amenities.
St. Petersburg itself left Menell with a lasting impression. The player spoke of the city in glowing terms, calling it beautiful and promising to explore more of its culture and landmarks. He expressed a desire to visit the major attractions the following day, showing genuine enthusiasm for what the city has to offer beyond hockey. He even joked about the cold, saying that frost doesn’t scare him, and that his visit would include a mix of sport, theater, and sightseeing.
Earlier in his trip, Menell enjoyed a cultural excursion in Moscow, attending the Bolshoi Theatre to see The Nutcracker. His plan was to extend his stay into St. Petersburg and spend time at the Mariinsky Theatre as well, hoping to experience two of Russia’s most prestigious performing arts venues. He left the door open to continuing these theatrical adventures during the upcoming summer holidays, reflecting a broader curiosity about Russia’s artistic scene in addition to his professional hockey commitments.
Looking ahead, the KHL All-Star Game was scheduled for December 9 in St. Petersburg, at the newly unveiled SKA Arena—the largest hockey facility on the global stage. The venue, boasting a capacity of 21,500 spectators, stands taller in scale than many historic arenas and even surpasses Montreal’s Bell Centre in terms of size. The event highlighted St. Petersburg’s role as a hub for elite hockey and a city capable of hosting a showcase that attracts players from across the league and fans from around the world.
Menell’s reflections also touched on the broader appeal of playing in a league with a mix of international talent and a strong local following. He spoke about the camaraderie among players and the excitement that comes with traveling to iconic hockey cities, where history and modern facilities converge to create memorable experiences on and off the ice. It’s clear that his time in St. Petersburg reinforced the connection between high-level competition and rich cultural immersion—an experience that resonates with athletes who chase both championship success and personal growth through travel and culture.
As a former standout for a KHL club, the player has continually aimed to broaden his horizons. The idea of taking on opportunities outside the rink, including media and entertainment prospects, seemed to be part of his larger vision for life in hockey. This perspective reflects a broader trend among players who blend professional sport with broader interests, leveraging the international platform of the sport to explore new possibilities while bringing energy and leadership to their teams.
In sum, Menell’s visit to SKA Arena and his time in St. Petersburg offered a vivid snapshot of modern professional hockey: a blend of athletic performance, architectural splendor, and cultural curiosity. The All-Star Game in a venue that can host tens of thousands of fans symbolizes not just athletic excellence but a city’s capacity to celebrate the game on a grand stage. For a player who already experiences the intensity of the KHL, the trip underscored the universal appeal of hockey and the enduring excitement of stepping into new arenas that feel both monumental and welcoming to players and spectators alike. The reflections captured in these moments paint a portrait of a player who values performance, community, and the rich cultural tapestry that accompanies international competition. These experiences, shared in a candid and observant tone, offer fans a rare glimpse into the personal side of professional athletes as they navigate the crossroads of sport, travel, and culture.