Pittsburgh Penguins forward Andrei Kuzmenko to switch to number 62 in tribute to late father
Philadelphia? No, the Pittsburgh Penguins announced that forward Andrei Kuzmenko will change his jersey number to 62 for the upcoming season. The move is a personal tribute to his father, who was killed in a bear attack in Russia last week at the age of 62.
The 62‑year‑old father died in a tragic incident in Russia, a fact that has prompted Kuzmenko to adopt his father's birth year as his new on‑ice number. The change is intended to keep his father's memory alive during games and in the locker room.
In a brief statement to the media, Kuzmenko said the decision was made to honor his father's legacy and to bring a sense of comfort during a difficult time. He will wear the number on his jersey for the remainder of the season.
Jersey number changes are not uncommon in the NHL, often reflecting personal milestones or commemorations. Kuzmenko's switch to 62 is a unique example of a player using his uniform to pay homage to a loved one.
The Penguins will update the player's number on all official merchandise and in game broadcasts once the new season begins.
<small>Source: ESPN — read the original story there.</small>
