Yes, Stephen was born in Russia and skated in Ekaterinburg, Russia. His family noticed his talent and brought him to the attention of Lee and Brian at the Cricket Club very early and they took him on when he was 7. So he's been living here with his family at least since then and he represents Canada. In an interview with PJ Kwong Stephen sounded like your average Ontarian but then ended it with a "Spasibo", so he's retained at least that much RussianI'm sure he remembers far more than that, not least because his parents likely speak it at home. However, Stephen's pretty shy from all accounts so he may be shyer about speaking in Russian. But maybe Evgenia may coax some more out of him, unless she is more intent on upping her conversational English. He's certainly lucky to have another kind and experienced skater arriving at the CC. I am sure all the veterans will support him as he navigates his first year internationally as a junior, while he supports her in her first year living and training in an unfamiliar country.
Not sure of his specific case, but most of the kids that leave russia at such young age tend not to speak Russian (while they do understand some and may speak a couple of words, even if parents speak russian at home and specifically to the kids) compared to folks who left Russia at 10+ age. Just so you folks don't get the hopes too high.
At least it will give her time to heal completely 
