BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) – There was a little piece of Bismarck at the World Juniors this year. Bismarck Bobcats forward Alexander Kim has entered the international scene.
“Playing for your country is always very special, I feel like that, so it was fun,” Kim said.
Kim participated in one of the most prestigious tournaments in hockey: the World Juniors. The Bobcats forward represented his home country of Kazakhstan.
“It’s amazing,” Kim said. “It’s always special and playing with all the guys you grew up with is pretty special too. It’s really fun to see the crowd and the arenas full, it’s special, I will remember it for the rest of my life.
Kim’s efforts in Ottawa did not go unnoticed by his head coach in Bismarck.
“I think it’s great for him and great for the organization,” Bobcats head coach Garrett Roth said. “Sasha has done a great job here, he competes, he works hard. Every time one of your players gets the opportunity to play for their country, it’s a special moment and we’re really proud of them.
Kim was named assistant captain of the Kazakhstan team.
“I think it’s an honor to carry a letter to the World Juniors, but it’s also a very big responsibility,” Kim said.
Kim has made several trips with his national team. He played for the team that was promoted to the Premier League last year, which was his country’s ninth appearance in the Premier League.
“It’s definitely grown up. I think more and more kids are coming to hockey and starting to play it. So I think it’s more popular now,” Kim said.
At the World Juniors, Kazakhstan ended up being relegated from the top division to Division 1A.
“I think it’s still a good experience for all the players that have been there with us and I think we did our best,” Kim said.
When Kazakhstan returns to the top division, there is one thing Kim wants to see.
“More wins, that’s the only thing,” Kim said with a smile.
Still, Kim knows how incredible it is to play at the World Juniors.
“It happens maybe once or twice in your life, I feel like it’s a big move in my career. It’s a great experience for me,” Kim said.
The Bobcats host St. Cloud Friday and Saturday night.
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