Timmins (Ontario) - Canadian Hockey announced today that Canada's national hockey team will face off against Team Russia on Thursday, at the McIntyre Arena in Timmins, Ontario at 7:30 p.m.

The Canada - Russia game will mark the first appearance of Canada's national hockey team in Timmins since the 1992-93 campaign.

"Personally, I am looking forward to returning to Timmins and facing off against the Russians," comments Tom Renney, head coach, Canada's national hockey team, "as every game is important in our preparations for the 1996 World Championship. We will do our part to make sure that this a game that the City of Timmins will remember for a long time."

The April 4 contest is the second game scheduled for the four game Canada - Russia series. The tour begins in Sudbury, Ontario on April 2 and continues to Timmins, Ontario on April 4; Kirkland Lake, Ontario on April 6; and Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec on April 7.

When Canada's national team plays international events in Canada's communities, they bring more than a hockey game to the community. The Timmins game will feature a Coaches Clinic for minor hockey coaches; and Guest Coach, Trainer and Referee programs. The Canadian Hockey Festival is Team Canada's commitment to the local organizing communities.