OREANDA-NEWS  Evgeny Khvalko showed great hopes in sports and has already managed to become the champion of Russia in junior hockey. The talented guy had every chance to grow into a great athlete, but his life was tragically interrupted at the age of 17.

It is noted that the cause of death of the young player was complications caused by tick-borne encephalitis.

— Evgeny Evgenievich Khvalko, a Kuzbass youth player, has passed away. The guy had a huge talent and showed great promise. He was only 17 years old… The Kuzbass Hockey Club and the fans express their deep condolences to Evgeny's family and friends, we grieve with you! — the message says.

In April, Khvalko became the champion of Russia among juniors. The 17‑year-old hockey player was the son of the famous midfielder and coach of Kuzbass Evgeny Khvalko.