The basic premise of the hockey world is that if someone is hurt, everyone comes to “the aid” of one of our own. Grasping that connection was a bit more apparent in the wake of the news of Andrei Kuzmenko’s father’s death when the Penguins expressed their heartfelt condolences to the Pittsburgh forward. It’s a tale that brings to mind how much normal sports news can fall to the wayside when life gets in the way, and the extraordinary humanity of the sport.
Alexander Kuzmenko, who had greatly influenced Alexander’s early sports career as a former coach of youth hockey, died after being attacked by a bear during a fishing trip in Siberia. It’s hard enough to understand this abrupt and devastating event, but knowing that you’re thousands of miles from home and preparing for a new NHL season makes it all the more crushing. Andrei’s father was more than just a parent; he was the initial flame that propelled Andrei into the world of professional football, leaving his absence as a profound blow.
In return, the Pittsburgh Penguins organization came through with their wholehearted support. Penguins Hockey Operations President & GM Kyle Dubas made a heartfelt official announcement on behalf of the Penguins, noting the team’s collective sorrow and offering condolences to the entire Kuzmenko family. Dubas said the team is very supportive of Andrei through this very difficult time and that it is very clear to them that family and care and concern for oneself come first in hockey.
Immensely strong, Andrei decided to go to the morning exercise session at Cranberry with his team and then catch a plane to Moscow to be with those he loved. The more he stepped onto the ice with his hockey family, the more it was wonderful to see the bond he had with his team, despite the monumental adversity that he was going through. The Penguins were clear that he would have all the time he wanted off the team to digest his defeat and to help his family in Russia.
Ever since, outpourings of love and support have flooded in from fans of the league, taking on the full measure of the sports community’s capacity to welcome its players into its fold when they are in trouble. Times like these are when teamwork really matters; it’s not just about stats, wins, or line combinations. While Andrei is making his way back home to pay his respects to his father, the whole hockey world is wrapped around the player and his family, keeping them and their journey in its kindest thoughts.
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