Yun Chiang: An Unlikely Hockey Player

[nurx 914]

Today Chinese hockey player Yun Chiang landed in Washington D.C. after a long flight from Chaohu, China. Chiang, 17, is landed in Washington without a contract from any hockey team but is in contact to attempt to ink a deal with a team this week. Chiang was born in Chaohu where he has lived his entire life, but when given the opportunity to play in North America he knew he had to take it. Chiang has played hockey since he was 9 after his family took a vacation to Sweden. Throughout his childhood, he was forced to travel both throughout China and throughout Asia in an attempt to find teams. He was discovered by his agent Tyler Young an American out of Miami at a tournament in Tokyo. Young has stated that he believes that Chiang will have to work hard to adapt to the more competitive game, but he can adapt and he will succeed with any team that offers him a contract. Yun’s father came to America with him wearing a New York Americans Jersey, when asked why he was wearing the jersey he simply replied with “Americans are Yun’s favorite team we all hope he can play just one game for them.” Yun does have a very long journey before he has the opportunity to play in the VHL, but that journey begins now with his attempts to find a VHLM team to sign with. Chiang will likely spend this season in the VHLM while trying to adapt to the better play in the North American leagues. We got to talk to Chiang after he landed.

“Good afternoon Chiang how was your flight?”

Hello, I had a good flight very long though. I am excited to be in America though.

“Are there any teams you would like to join in the VHLM?”

I would like to play near my agent Tyler, but I just want to get the skates on and start playing.

“Young’s office is in Miami have you received a contract offer from the Marauders?”

I don’t know if I can say that, but I would like to play for the Marauders.

“Do you think a larger Chinese presence in hockey will help expand the sport in your home country?”

I am not really sure. I only wanted to play hockey after seeing the Yukon Rush play when I was a kid. I really hope one day we can see some exhibition games in my home country.

“When it comes to hockey what do you think is your biggest strength?”

I think my biggest strength is my skating. It is really the only thing I could work on every day. The rink in my hometown was only open for hockey 3 days a week, so I was forced to only skate the majority of days. I do think that my skating ability will be the strongest part of my game in the future.

“What do you believe will be the hardest part of your pro hockey career?”

I think that I may struggle with trying to adapt to the play style these teams play. I hope i can play at their level though.

After our conversation, Chiang left to talk to his agent about his future in the VHLM. I wish Chiang the best of luck in his career.