1. Early Life and Education
Ahn Jin-hui was born in Seoul, South Korea, on March 6, 1991. His journey in ice hockey began at a young age, as he started playing the sport when he was seven years old. His passion for ice hockey continued through his academic years, leading him to pursue the sport at both the high school and university levels.
1.1. Gyeongbok High School and Korea University
Ahn Jin-hui attended Gyeongbok High School, where he continued to develop his ice hockey skills. Following his high school education, he enrolled at Korea University, a renowned institution in South Korea. His time at Korea University further solidified his foundation in ice hockey, preparing him for a professional career. During his fourth year at the university in 2013, he gained valuable international experience by joining a professional club overseas.
2. Playing Career
Ahn Jin-hui's playing career spans both professional club leagues and significant contributions to the South Korean national team, showcasing his abilities as a versatile forward.
2.1. Professional Career
Ahn Jin-hui has played for several ice hockey clubs throughout his professional career, primarily within the Asia League Ice Hockey, with a notable stint in a European league.
2.1.1. Overseas League Experience
In the 2013-2014 season, while still in his final year at university, Ahn Jin-hui ventured abroad to play in Finland. He joined Kiekko-Vantaa, a team competing in the Mestis league, which is Finland's second-tier ice hockey league. This experience provided him with exposure to European hockey styles and further honed his skills before he returned to South Korea.
2.1.2. Club Career
After his season in Finland, Ahn Jin-hui returned to South Korea in 2014 and joined Anyang Halla, a prominent team in the Asia League Ice Hockey. He quickly established himself as a valuable player. During the 2017-2018 season, he played for Demyeong Sangmu. Following this, he returned to Anyang Halla for the 2019-2020 season, where he continues to play. His tenure with Anyang Halla has been marked by significant team successes, including their victory in the 2023-2024 Asia League Ice Hockey championship. This championship marked the team's eighth title and their second consecutive win.
2.2. National Team Career
Ahn Jin-hui's strong performances at the club level earned him a spot on the South Korean national ice hockey team, where he has represented his country in major international competitions.
2.2.1. International Competition Participation
Ahn Jin-hui played a crucial role for the South Korean national team in several high-profile tournaments. He participated in the 2018 Winter Olympics held in Pyeongchang, South Korea, where he competed in four games. During the playoff round against the Finnish national team, he scored a goal that narrowed the score to 2-3, demonstrating his offensive capabilities on the world stage. Following the Olympics, he also competed in the 2018 IIHF World Championship, which was the highest division of the tournament. In a game against the United States national team during the championship, Ahn Jin-hui scored another goal.
3. Achievements
Ahn Jin-hui's career is marked by several significant accomplishments at both the club and international levels.
- Asia League Ice Hockey Champion: 2023-2024 season (with Anyang Halla)
- Goal Scorer at 2018 Winter Olympics: Scored a goal against Finland in the playoff round.
- Goal Scorer at 2018 IIHF World Championship: Scored a goal against the United States in the Championship Division.