A photo of the young defenseman, Harrison Brunicke, wearing his future team’s sweatshirt as a child, began circulating after he became the first South African-born skater to be selected in the NHL Draft of 2024 by the Penguins.

This photo was captured during a family visit to South Africa after they had relocated to Calgary when Harrison was just two years old. These trips usually included an exciting safari adventure at Kruger National Park. Harrison, along with his older sister Georgia, and their parents Dean and Kim, would often spend time exploring the park’s surroundings with other relatives, setting out early in the morning.

Harrison expressed, “When you venture out in a car, you encounter these astonishing creatures. Many of them are not commonly seen, so witnessing them in their natural habitats was truly amazing.”

It was always meant to be for Harrison Brunicke pic.twitter.com/cdy4W5rBFo

— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) June 29, 2024

Dean and Kim, who both grew up in South Africa, experienced a significant cultural shift when they moved from a country where safaris were a normal part of life to a much colder environment where ice hockey was the most popular sport.

Before moving, they found amusement when questioned about their knowledge of ice hockey. Kim, in particular, admitted, “Absolutely nothing. I was completely clueless. I didn’t even understand the concept of offside… I vividly recall attending my initial Calgary Flames matches and struggling to locate the elusive puck.”

Despite having previous experience playing field hockey, Dean soon realized that he had underestimated the challenges of enrolling Harrison, who was around 4 or 5 years old, in TimBits (mini mites or mites in the U.S.). Harrison, being both athletically inclined and larger in size compared to his peers, had always displayed remarkable skill, even as a toddler, when he could kick a soccer ball over the swing set. His mother, Kim, described him as a constantly active child who found it difficult to sit still, a characteristic that has persisted even to this day.

Harrison quickly developed a passion for ice hockey and showcased his natural talent, bringing immense joy to his parents. “Hockey is absolutely incredible,” Dean exclaimed. “As I got involved in it, I realized how truly remarkable this sport is.”

Harrison, born in 2006, experienced a unique journey that aligned with the rise of the Penguins’ captain as the prominent figure in the NHL. Dean acknowledged this by stating, “Upon our initial introduction, Sid was the epitome of greatness. Naturally, we were captivated by his talent.” Dean’s earliest memory of Sid’s brilliance was when he scored his inaugural goal, wielding his Crosby-branded Sherwood stick, adorned in the iconic Pittsburgh colors. Dean fondly reminisced, “I don’t think he managed to lift the puck [laughs].”

Harrison’s journey began with the Glenlake Minor Hockey Club, where he honed his skills before being selected by the Kamloops Blazers of the Western Hockey League. This move took him approximately seven hours away from Calgary. During this time, Kim not only adapted to the early mornings and weekends that come with being a hockey parent but also found herself yearning for them when they were absent.

She expressed her deep affection for going to the rink, attending practices, and watching him play in games. The joy it brings her is undeniable. However, due to other commitments, she can no longer witness all his games and misses those precious moments. The early mornings and weekends spent in the hockey world are dearly missed. Nevertheless, she understands that his passion lies in this sport, and it encompasses his entire life.

Harrison’s dream was finally realized, and his immediate family journeyed to Las Vegas to witness this momentous occasion. The experience was an emotional one for everyone involved. With a beaming smile, Dean expressed his overwhelming joy, finding it difficult to put into words. “I would describe my feelings as ‘really chuffed,’ a South African term that encapsulates being immensely proud and thrilled for him, considering the immense effort he has poured into achieving this.”

“I feel like I lost my breath there a little bit, gave me some tears,” Kim said. “It’s also just that the Penguins are so iconic, you know what I mean? Like, Sidney Crosby just phoned you? Like, get out of here! I’m just so proud of him.”

First order of business – a congratulatory phone call from Sidney Crosby. pic.twitter.com/1TE3vcRUFw

— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) June 29, 2024

Both of them labeled Harrison as someone who prioritizes the team, stating that he will consistently put the group’s well-being ahead of personal accolades. When questioned about their preferred teammate during the player interview section of the NHL Scouting Combine, multiple teams inquired about the Canadian World U18 Team members’ choice.

Kim said, “Harrison informed me that several teams have mentioned that multiple individuals praised him. That’s quite impressive. It fills me with immense pride. He’s an exceptional young man. I know every mother claims that, but he truly is. He’s not only a fantastic individual but also an outstanding teammate. He’s always willing to do whatever is asked of him.”

Harrison expresses gratitude towards his family, particularly because they stood by him and provided unwavering support as his potential in the sport became apparent. Despite being thousands of miles away from their own support networks, his parents managed to navigate the challenges that came with his budding career. They went above and beyond to ensure Harrison’s success, including enlisting the expertise of power skating coach Patrick Puddifant, based in Calgary, who boasts Cale Makar as one of his clients.

Harrison expressed his gratitude, stating, “The amount of support they’ve provided is immeasurable. The decision to relocate from South Africa to Calgary was not an easy one due to the significant cultural shift involved. Their efforts to ensure we have a prosperous life in Calgary are commendable. Undoubtedly, their assistance has played a crucial role in shaping my current success.”

Harrison takes pride in his heritage and aspires to be the first skater from South Africa to play in the NHL, following in the footsteps of Olaf Kolzig, a goaltender also born in Johannesburg. Although he recognizes the challenges ahead, his participation in the Penguins’ recent development camp has provided him with valuable resources to progress on his journey.

On the final day, Harrison expressed, “The knowledge and skills I have acquired during my time here have truly aided in my development both on the field and as an individual.”