Olimb debuted for the men’s national team in 2007 and nowadays he is one of the most recognized players in the squad. At the 2011 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship he had eight assists, more than any other player at the tournament. His experience will help the Norwegians in their quest to reach the quarter-finals at the upcoming 2016 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship in Russia.

What are your goals in exhibition games like the ones you recently played in St. Petersburg?
The training camp continues for us, so we need to find the optimum condition and breathe with the full lungs before the first game of the preliminary round. It's great to play with such a strong rival as Russia in front of their fans. It is a top team that will compete for the first place. We work on all aspects of the game, but most of all we wanted to play tight on defence. We also need to catch the optimal rhythm of the game.

What do you expect from the 2016 Worlds?
Our minimal task is to stay in the top division, but we understand that we can achieve more. We qualified for the quarter-finals of the World Championship more than once in the past. We always want to perform as good as possible.

Head Coach Roy Johansen will leave after the Worlds. What does this fact mean for the team?
This fact adds a motivation for us. We would like to play for our coach to perform as good as possible in his last tournament with Norway. He has been working in this position for 16 years, he has done a lot for Norwegian hockey. This is a great achievement. I wish that his tenure will be completed on a beautiful note.

Are you confident to be on the final roster for the World Chapmionship?
Yes, I am sure that I will play. Although such questions are better asked to the coach. It's up to him to make the roster. Another thing is that I have played for the national team for ten years and I am confident in my abilities. I want to show my best at the Worlds in Russia.

What impressions do you have from St. Petersburg and the Yubileiny Sports Palace?
I really liked it, it is always great to play in a crowded arena. Moreover, it looks like new. The organizers have done great work. I think we should expect an excellent World Championship.