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Leah Lum: A Hockey Journey Across Continents
Throughout her illustrious hockey career, Leah Lum has garnered a unique perspective that sets her apart in the world of professional sports. Not only is Lum a rare dual-threat skater on the ice, seamlessly transitioning between forward and defense positions at every level, but she has also traversed the globe, exploring the intricacies of the game in various cultural contexts.
On a tranquil Monday in Montreal, as Lum savors a respite before the impending PWHL playoffs, she fondly reminisces about her journey. A radiant smile adorns her face as she recounts the highlights of her career thus far – from her formative years playing on a boys’ team in Richmond, British Columbia, to clinching the Isobel Cup with the PHF’s Toronto Six last year. Now, on the cusp of vying for a new trophy with PWHL Montreal, Lum holds a special reverence for one particular chapter in her story – a transformative four-year tenure with the Shenzhen KRS Vanke Rays in Shenzhen, China.
“As a young player, the possibilities that hockey opens up are boundless,” Lum reflects. “It was truly a dream come true to venture overseas and play professionally. I embraced every moment, immersing myself in my heritage along the way.”
Belonging to a lineage of fourth-generation Chinese-Canadians rooted in British Columbia, Lum embarked on her maiden voyage to China for the 2018-19 pro hockey season, having never visited the country before. The opportunity arose through a serendipitous encounter with Margaret “Digit” Murphy, a seasoned college hockey coach spearheading the establishment of two new CWHL clubs in China with the goal of bolstering the sport’s presence in the market ahead of the 2022 Olympics. Lum’s experience abroad proved to be nothing short of transformative, labeling it as “undoubtedly the best four years of my life.” Beyond honing her skills professionally, Lum donned the colors of China on the international stage, competing at the Olympics and world championships as a dual-passport Chinese-Canadian athlete.
The Evolution of Hockey in China
A deep dive into Lum’s experience playing and contributing to the growth of hockey in China reveals a profound narrative of cultural exchange and athletic development. Reflecting on the shifting landscape, Lum underscores the remarkable progress witnessed in Shenzhen from her initial season to her culmination there. She notes the integral role played by passionate fans and the grassroots promotion of the sport, particularly aimed at nurturing young talent.
“The developmental journey from my inaugural year to the culmination was nothing short of awe-inspiring. Witnessing the game’s expansion and evolution firsthand was a privilege. To this day, I am proud to see my Chinese teammates wholeheartedly dedicated to cultivating the game among aspiring young players,” Lum elucidates.
A Triumph on Home Soil
The crescendo of Lum’s Chinese sojourn unfolded with her participation in the 2022 Olympics, a momentous occasion further underscored by the Games being hosted in Beijing. Despite the challenges posed by the Covid-era restrictions, Lum’s experience resonates with a deep sense of fulfillment and pride.
“It was truly a special time, albeit marred by the restrictions imposed by the pandemic. While the absence of a full-fledged fan base was disheartening, it fostered a sense of unity within the team. Stepping onto the Olympic stage and representing my heritage alongside my peers was an indescribable honor,” Lum articulates with palpable emotion.
Inspirations and Comrades in Sport
Delving into Lum’s hockey idols and contemporaries, a familiar name surfaces – Marie-Philip Poulin. Lum reminisces about witnessing Poulin’s heroics on the international stage during the 2010 Olympics, a moment that left an indelible impression on her. Reuniting with Poulin as teammates in Montreal, Lum marvels at Poulin’s prowess and work ethic, acknowledging her as a source of inspiration and admiration.
“Watching Marie-Philip’s journey from a distance to sharing the ice with her has been a surreal experience. Her dedication and skill set are unparalleled, both on and off the rink. It’s a privilege to witness her excellence firsthand,” Lum shares.
A Glimpse into the Playoffs
As Lum and her teammates gear up for the impending PWHL playoffs, a sense of anticipation and determination permeates their preparations. The unique playoff format, including the innovative pick-your-opponent rule and the jailbreak on the penalty kill, infuses an air of excitement into the competition.
“The playoffs herald a heightened level of intensity, where the minutiae of the game assume heightened importance. While the stakes are undeniably higher, our approach remains unwavering – meticulous preparation and unwavering commitment define our ethos,” Lum asserts.
With the playoffs on the horizon, Lum exudes a blend of confidence and humility, embodying the spirit of a true competitor. As she sets her sights on the challenges ahead, one thing remains abundantly clear – Leah Lum’s journey in hockey is defined not just by her talent on the ice, but by the indelible mark she leaves on the sport, both locally and globally.
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