Introducing...YANA TARASENKO

Howdy, partner! Yes, the model, entrepreneur and gorgeous WAG of an NHL world champion reveals all. Giddy up...

- SANTI PINTADO

Welcome to MAXIM Australia, Yana, and congrats on your debut cover. How do you feel? 

I feel great and very grateful. Thank you for this opportunity – it is a pleasure. The thing is, this is my first men’s magazine cover so far and MAXIM is a legendary brand – it embodies sexuality and passion. Needless to say, I’m very excited.

What did you love most about this photo shoot?

For starters, the location was exceptional – we shot this at a ranch in Malibu, California, and the owner of the ranch is Suze Randall, one of the most famous female photographers of the ’70s and ’80s. Although the horses were nice, they were quite challenging to handle at first but the team was super professional and the vibe was very special.

Well, you look beautiful. What would you say is your best asset?

I’m able to style out absolutely everything and I’m an incurable optimist. Long legs are also very helpful – I mean, helpful in being an optimist. Haha!

When do you feel sexy?

There is no “when” for me. When it comes to sexuality it’s either there, deep inside, or it’s not. My feeling of being sexy doesn’t depend on a setting, occasion or an outfit.

What would people be most surprised to know about you?

Maybe the fact that I really come alive at night time. I mean, I really feel a rush of energy in the evening and it needs to be released.

Tell us a bit more about yourself and your life story so far.