Hockey Players from Korea Participate in Dallas Stars’ Camp
South Korean hockey players Jinhui Ahn, Wonjun Kim and Kye Hoon Park attend an NHL development camp with the Dallas Stars along with American prospect players. Jim Nill, Stars General Manager, has invited them at Jim Paek's request.
The director of Korean Ice Hockey Association and coach of South Korean National Team was the first Korean player in the NHL when he debuted in 1990. He was also the first Korean player to win a Stanley Cup - the championship trophy awarded to the playoff winner of the annual National Hockey League.
He got acquainted with Nill while working as an assistant coach for Grand Rapids Griffins for nine seasons. Their close relationship allowed him to ask the favor and the Stars GM happily obliged, thinking that having the three players will show Stars prospects other playing techniques and styles. Paek wanted the three players to "get the experience" and to "learn what it takes to make the next step" in preparation for the PyeongChang 2018 Olympics.
Defenseman Wonjun Kim and forward Jinhui Ahn play for Anyang Halla. Kim, who used to play junior hockey in Finland, hopes that the experience will improve their skills, make them better players and give them confidence. Goaltender Kye Hoon Park, on the other hand, has experienced participating in a development camp. Earlier this year, he attended Buffalo Sabres' goalie camp.
Joining the Dallas Stars isn't just about honing their skills. It's also a way to meet other people and to learn American culture. For them, it's a fun adventure.
Kim, Ahn and Park are enthusiastic to take part in the Olympics. And while they're qualified to play should South Korea join in the hockey games, they're taking small steps - participating in the Stars' camp and raising awareness on hockey as one of Korea's major sports.
