For the month of January we look back on Eriks Zohovs, a 1997 birth year forward from Riga, Latvia, who spent the 2015-16 season in the EHL with the Boston Jr. Rangers. After that year in Tewksbury, MA, he went on to play in the North American Hockey League (NAHL) with the Shreveport Mudbugs, and then finished out his junior hockey career in the United Stated Hockey League (USHL) in the 2017-18 season with the Youngstown Phantoms.
Following his junior hockey career he committed to and played NCAA Division I hockey at the University of Alaska-Fairbanks. Each step along the way he improved and demonstrated an ability to become a top player at each level he was playing at, and this consistent production allowed him the opportunity to play professionally in Europe, which he is currently doing in Hungary. Recently, he spoke with league staff and reflected on his time in the EHL.
“The EHL was very interesting time in my life. Since it was the first time when I came to play in the United States and EHL introduced me to USA hockey and the style of play here.” said Zohovs. “ The Boston Jr. Rangers were a very good team that year, and I didn’t speak English very well at that time, so my teammates and Rich DeCaprio helped me a lot to feel like I was at home. The EHL helped me to move to the next steps towards my dream and play every year at the next level up.”
Three different junior hockey teams in three successive years is difficult, but Zohovs earned these opportunities each season to consistently move up a level, before committing to college.
“Honestly it was long story how I end up in Alaska, but I’m very appreciative to Alaska coaches that they gave me this opportunity to pursue my education and play hockey at the same time," added Zohovs. "Karlis Zirnis, also from Latvia, helped me to get there and start playing. University of Alaska-Fairbanks was a great team and community. The people over there are super supportive and they care about you.”
Now looking back on his amateur hockey career, Zohovs had time to reflect on the journey and look back positively on each step in the process. He offered advice to young players.
“Work hard, listen to coaches, and enjoy the moments with your teammates," said Zohovs. "Everyone has different dreams, so work towards those dreams together. Everything is possible and it depends on how bad you want it. Coaches will help you with your dream, but only when you show your work ethic and willingness to grow up as a person and player as well. Junior hockey ends quickly, so enjoy hockey, time with your teammates, and make memories along the way.”
Congratulations Eriks Zohovs on all your success. The EHL takes great pride in players such as Eriks for helping them reach their goals and fulfilling our league motto -- With every player comes a different path and next step. Whether it's college hockey or climbing the junior ranks, the EHL and the EHLP provide all of our players with the resources to improve their game and keep climbing in their respective journeys.
Every story is different, and we're ready to help you write the next chapter in yours.
Next Stop, The #EShow
