Vladimir Tarasenko Loves St. Louis, Hates Yo Mamma Jokes

In an interview with Russia's Sport Express (and covered on HockeyVIP Magazine), Vladimir Tarasenko answers some hard hitting questions about "yo mamma" jokes.

Mainly, don't joke about Mama Tarasenko.

"There’s a certain taboo in Russia on joking about your family, mom, girlfriend or wife," he said. "And there [in North America] they can joke in such a way. A couple of times I thought there would be a fight, but instead they all laughed. As a result, I just had to indicate what topics should not be subjects of jokes with me. In spite of the fact that they may have this type of humor, I don’t believe in it because I was brought up differently. In such situations I have stay true to my beliefs and not laugh like everyone else. The guys understand I don’t joke about such things. So it’s not a problem."

I am surprised that jabs at mamas and wives were still a thing, especially in a locker room that includes Mr. St. Kelly Backes.

Also included in the article was Tarasenko's musings on the city of St. Louis. Mainly, like so many others who have worn the Note, he enjoys it.

He said he enjoys living in St. Louis and prefers it to other, more cosmopolitan cities.

"There are many things to do — amusement parks, regular parks, places where you can rent a catamaran or a bike. There are many places were you can relax. For some people, relaxing is a party at the pool, but with our demanding season and schedule sometimes you just want to go for a walk, to breathe the air. There are plenty such places here. Actually, I think that St Louis is very good for family life and for life in general. After having visited New York and Los Angeles, I realized that it would have been difficult for me there. They are beautiful cities, with many sights, but at the same time there are so many people and cars. Here we’re living in a good neighborhood, people are always smiling and friendly. It’s pleasant."

Someone put that on Explore St. Louis's website, please. "St. Louis: Good for Life in General" sounds like a wonderful city motto.

He also reveals that there were idiots in Russia who "threw mud at him" and didn't believe that he could be a successful hockey player. The thought of Tarasenko having to prove naysayers wrong is just gobsmacking.