Hur Jae’s Two Sons: Like Father, Like Son

“Cheer up, dad. You have us.”

Coach Hur Jae (42) of the KCC Egis basketball team suffered the indignity of ranking in last place this season.

The team’s ongoing poor performance throughout the season led to extreme stress, causing him to experience hair loss and stomach troubles. However, Coach Hur is regaining his spirit thanks to his two sons who are playing basketball just as he did.

Aces of Champion Schools, Yongsan Middle School and Samgwang Elementary School –

Coach Hur’s elder son Woong (14) is playing at Yongsan Middle School of Seoul, and younger son Hoon (12) is playing at Samgwang Elementary School. They both use the number nine for their numbers, the same as their father. During the Seoul City Junior Sports Festival, which was recently held, they both led their teams to victory.

Woong began playing basketball as a hobby three years ago while Coach Hur was studying in the U.S. He is known for his shooting abilities and speed. His coaching staff says that his fundamental skills are strong due to the influence of his father, who was known as the “President of Basketball” when he was a player.

Hoon scored 17 points and made five steals during the finals against Yeon-ga Elementary School. He was praised for being strong both on the offensive and defensive sides of the ball. He is often compared with his father, whom he resembles in both instinct for basketball and competitiveness. Considered to be finest player among current sixth grade students, Hoon is planning on going to Yongsan Middle School next year to join his brother.

“People say they are better than I was at their age” –

Coach Hur didn’t forget his sons during his recent visit to the U.S. to collect information about foreign players. He brought back basketball shoes with their names printed on them.

Although his tight schedule does not allow him to go to his sons’ games, he always reviews recordings of their games and gives them advice. Coach Hur laughed, saying, “My father, who helped me for 30 years, says that his grandsons are better than his son.”

Woong and Hoon showed their determination, saying, “We’ll work hard to become great players like our dad.”

It seems to run in the family.

kjs0123@donga.com