By: Robert Mazin, Media & Player Development, 369 Sport & Entertainment

For many young athletes, the journey to college hockey begins with a dream. For Zakhar Fedorov, the path to the NCAA started thousands of miles away in Moscow, Russia, and developed through years of adaptation, growth, and persistence.

After years of hard work across multiple elite programs in the United States, Fedorov has taken another major step forward, earning an opportunity to play NCAA hockey with Southern New Hampshire University for the 2025–26 season.

It’s a milestone that reflects not just talent, but patience, discipline, and a long-term commitment to development.

Growing Up on the Ice in Moscow

Fedorov first stepped onto the ice at just five years old. Like many young players in Russia, hockey quickly became a major part of his life. However, his development began in a slightly different way than many defensemen.

“I started playing hockey when I was about five years old. At first, I actually played forward for a long time, which helped me develop my offensive instincts,” Fedorov explained.

Growing up in Moscow, his early hockey years were structured around travel, training, and competition. These experiences helped shape his discipline and mindset early in his career.

“Hockey growing up was a lot of traveling and different types of training. It helped me develop discipline early and get used to competitive environments,” he said.

During his youth development, Fedorov also found inspiration in players who came from similar programs. Watching their success helped motivate him to pursue his own path in hockey.

“Growing up, I was mostly inspired by Nikita Kucherov and Nikita Gusev since they both came out of the same youth hockey program,” Fedorov shared.

Those early influences helped shape his understanding of what it takes to compete at higher levels and reinforced his long-term goals.

Why the American Development Path?

As his career progressed, Fedorov and his family began exploring opportunities beyond Russia. The decision to move to the United States was driven by more than just hockey.

“My family and I decided to try the U.S. because of the strong education system connected with hockey. It gives players the opportunity to earn a degree while still competing at a high level,” Fedorov explained.

The American development system offered something unique: the ability to combine high-level hockey with education. For Fedorov and his family, this was a major factor in choosing the U.S. path.

The opportunity to pursue a degree while continuing to develop as a player created a long-term vision that aligned with both athletic and academic goals. It was a step that required courage, adaptation, and a willingness to leave comfort behind.

Adjusting to a Faster Game

Like other international players, Fedorov faced challenges early in his transition. The biggest obstacle was the language barrier. Communicating with teammates, coaches, and teachers required patience and effort.

The environment around the young defenseman helped ease the transition. Teammates and billet families played an important role in helping him adapt both on and off the ice. Over time, the transition became smoother, and Fedorov began to feel more comfortable in his new surroundings.

One of the biggest differences Fedorov noticed between hockey in Russia and the United States was the speed of decision-making. Smaller ice surfaces in the American system meant less time and space, forcing players to react faster and make quicker plays.

This adjustment played a major role in his development as a defenseman. With less time and space, he learned to stay calm under pressure and make smarter plays with the puck.

“I definitely improved my reaction time and my ability to hold onto the puck without rushing decisions,” he added.

These improvements helped shape his identity as a defenseman. Fedorov became calmer, composed, and capable of moving the puck efficiently in tight situations.

A Development Path Through Elite Programs

Fedorov’s development in North America included stops at several respected programs, including Seacoast Performance Academy, Elite Hockey Academy, North Shore Academy, Tahoe Prep Academy, Maine Jr. Mariners, and CATS Academy. Each step presented new challenges and opportunities to improve.

One of his most notable seasons came with the Maine Jr. Mariners 18U AAA program, where Fedorov recorded 51 points in 52 games, an impressive total for a defenseman. His offensive production highlighted the benefits of his early years playing forward, while his defensive game continued to develop.

Following his AAA success, Fedorov continued his progression through junior hockey, joining CT Chiefs North in the NCDC. This step helped prepare him for the speed and physicality of college hockey.

Reaching the NCAA at Southern New Hampshire University

Earning an NCAA opportunity had long been one of Fedorov’s main goals. After years of development, he achieved that milestone by joining Southern New Hampshire University.

“Playing NCAA hockey was one of my main goals, so getting that opportunity was a big step forward for me,” Fedorov said.

The NCAA level presents a new challenge, combining players from different backgrounds, leagues, and development systems.

“The NCAA level is a great mix of talent, size, and speed. Players come from different backgrounds, which brings new challenges and opportunities,” he explained.

As he prepares for the upcoming season, Fedorov remains focused on continuing his development and preparing physically for college competition.

“Right now, my main focus is adapting to college hockey and adding more muscle over the summer to be ready for the upcoming season,” he said.

Family, Support, and the Road Ahead

Throughout his journey, Fedorov’s family has remained an important source of support. Despite being far from home, he maintains daily communication with his family.

“I talk to my family every day. I’m used to being far away now, but their support is still very important to me,” Fedorov shared.

Having spent several years playing abroad, he has grown comfortable living independently, but family support continues to motivate him as he pursues his goals.

For players developing overseas, having the right support system can make a significant difference. Fedorov has worked with 369 Sport & Entertainment throughout his development path, as the agency has helped him navigate opportunities and adjust to new environments.

Now entering the NCAA level, Fedorov’s journey continues to evolve. From Moscow to North American AAA hockey, junior hockey, and now college hockey, his path reflects dedication and long-term development.

As he prepares for his first full NCAA season, the focus remains clear: continue improving, adapt to the college level, and take advantage of every opportunity. Zakhar Fedorov’s next chapter is just beginning.