On May 15, 2025, a grand ceremony was held in Bishkek to honor Kyrgyzstan’s national hockey team for their remarkable success at the World Championship held in Turkey. President Sadyr Japarov personally congratulated the athletes and presented them with monetary awards, acknowledging their dedication and contribution to Kyrgyz hockey.

Japarov emphasized that the team’s success was the result of three years of tireless training and determination. For the first time in history, the national team advanced to Group B of the Division II of the World Championship. “You have not only proven to yourselves and the world that Kyrgyzstan has a hockey team, but also that it’s ready for rapid progress and greater heights,” he said.

Outstanding players received special recognition: Islambek Abdyraev was named Best Forward, Kuzma Terentyev as Best Defender, and captain Mamed Seyfulov scored 18 goals, surpassing a previous record held by an Israeli player.

The president recalled that in 2022, the team had won the Division IV championship in Bishkek and was promoted to Division III. He reiterated the government’s commitment to continue supporting sports, especially hockey, by modernizing infrastructure and creating opportunities for future champions.

Japarov also extended his gratitude to coaches, the medical team, and technical staff. During the ceremony, he awarded each player 600,000 soms, coaches 800,000 soms, and support staff 200,000 soms.