Penguins Forward Andrei Kuzmenko to Wear No. 62 in Honor of Late Father
Pittsburgh Penguins forward Andrei Kuzmenko is changing his jersey number to 62 to honor his father, who recently died at age 62 in a bear attack in Russia.
Orlando Daytona Beach Melbourne, FL, October 2, 2026 — The Pittsburgh Penguins organization has announced that forward Andrei Kuzmenko will be changing his jersey number for the upcoming season. Kuzmenko, who previously wore number 95, will now don the number 62. This change is reportedly to honor his father, who recently passed away at the age of 62.
According to reports, Kuzmenko’s father died in a bear attack in Russia. The detail of the father’s age at the time of his death, 62, directly corresponds with Kuzmenko’s new jersey number.
The decision to change a jersey number is often a deeply personal one for athletes. Players may choose a number to signify a new chapter in their career, to pay tribute to a role model or family member, or for other personal reasons. In this instance, Kuzmenko’s choice appears to be a direct memorial to his father.
Specific details regarding the circumstances of the bear attack, including the exact location and date of the incident, have not been widely publicized. The age of the father, 62, has been cited as the direct inspiration for Kuzmenko’s decision to adopt the number 62. Information regarding the contractor’s name, permit status, inspection outcomes, code violations, or fine amounts related to this specific incident was not provided in the summary.
Kuzmenko joined the Penguins during the 2023-2024 season. His new number, 62, will be visible on his jersey as he competes with the team. The passing of a parent is a significant personal event, and Kuzmenko’s choice to reflect this in his professional identity highlights the profound impact of his father.
Story summarized from the original created by Associated Press on www.clickorlando.com, see more information here.
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