Penguins Forward Andrei Kuzmenko Changes Jersey Number to Honor Late Father
Pittsburgh Penguins forward Andrei Kuzmenko is changing his jersey number to 62 to honor his father, who died at age 62 in Russia.
Peoria Bloomington, IL, October 2, 2026 — Andrei Kuzmenko, a forward for the Pittsburgh Penguins, will be switching his jersey number. He is adopting the number 62 for the upcoming season, a change made to commemorate his late father.
Kuzmenko’s father passed away in Russia at the age of 62. The selection of the number 62 directly reflects this significant age and serves as a personal tribute to his father’s memory. The decision highlights a deeply personal connection between the player’s on-ice identity and his family.
While the exact timing of the official change on team rosters and merchandise was not detailed, the move signifies a poignant personal choice for the player. The jersey number change is a common practice in professional sports, often chosen for personal reasons, superstitions, or to honor individuals or milestones. In this instance, Kuzmenko’s choice is explicitly tied to a familial remembrance.
Further details regarding the specific context of his father’s passing or Kuzmenko’s previous jersey number were not provided. The player’s decision to wear number 62 is intended as an ongoing acknowledgment of his father’s life and legacy throughout his playing career with the Penguins. The number will now represent this special connection during games and team activities.
This personal gesture underscores the emotional dimensions of professional athletes’ careers, demonstrating how significant life events can influence their public representation. The adoption of number 62 by Kuzmenko is expected to be a visible reminder of his tribute each time he takes the ice for the Pittsburgh Penguins. The team has not commented on any specific details beyond the player’s personal announcement regarding the number change. The contractor’s name was not provided. The fine amount was not provided. The contractor’s name was not provided. The inspection outcomes were not provided. The permit status was not provided. The cause of the incident was not provided. The date of the incident was not provided. The location of the incident was not provided. The inspection outcomes were not provided.
Story summarized from the original created by Associated Press on www.centralillinoisproud.com, see more information here.
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