Mate vs mate for Steve Kuhn

When you grow up amongst the endless horizons of an Alberta farming town, there’s not a lot for a kid to do but to play hockey.

Steven Kuhn’s hockey journey has taken him around North America in the WHL, CIS college leagues and more recently to France, and now he’s on his way to play for the Proski Newcastle Northstars in Australia.

“I actually know very little about Australia but am looking forward to learning lots,” Kuhn said.

“I would like to soak up a few surf lessons while I'm there.”

Kuhn’s interest in surfing was no doubt fueled by his conversations with his Bisons teammates Jan Safar and Geordie Wudrick, who have two seasons each in the AIHL and developed a love for surfing while in Newcastle.

With Safar and Wudrick returning to the CBR Brave, he'll be facing off against his teammates in the AIHL this season.

Northstars coach Andrew Petrie rates Kuhn highly for his skill and two-way player attitude.

“Steve’s style of play suits our goals,” Petrie said.

“Everywhere he’s played he has a record of success, and sets a high bar for his teammates in terms of work ethic and responsibility.

“He’ll compete offensively and well as being a defensive leader.”

Kuhn’s conversations with his French Division 1 teammates lead him to believe that Newcastle was the team for him.

“Jan Safar and Geordie Wudrick had great things to say about it [the AIHL] and helped me in making the decision to come for the season.”

“I heard about the family type feeling that the Northstars provide for their players as well as the overall great vibes from the organization and the community,” said.

“I learned to skate with my brothers – my dad always made up a little rink in our back yard for us,” Kuhn said.

“I come from a small town there wasn't a whole lot else to do, so when I was old enough to start playing organised hockey we spent the majority of our time at the arena playing shinny and messing around.

“I am definitely looking to win a championship and get a taste of the Australian lifestyle.”

Welcome, Steven Kuhn to the Newcastle Northstars.

The Northstars start their season in Adelaide where they meet the Adrenaline on Saturday, April 22.