In Nairobi, where the average temperature hovers over 20°C, there’s a frozen anomaly tucked away in the Panari Hotel—a unique ice rink that serves as the training ground for Kenya's first ice hockey team, the Ice Lions. Captain Benjamin Mburu recalls the awe of stepping onto the ice for the first time, describing it as an "out of this world" experience amidst the warmth of the equator. Formed in 2016, the Ice Lions have recently ascended to a pivotal milestone by becoming the fifth African team recognized by the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF).
This newfound membership grants them access to international competitions, funding, and expert coaching, but the journey ahead is fraught with challenges. Mburu notes that the primary hurdle is meeting IIHF standards, and the Ice Lions are keenly aware of the obstacles they've faced in establishing the sport in a region where it is virtually unheard of. Originally formed by expatriates from the U.S. and Canada, the team has cleverly incorporated members from the more accessible roller hockey scene, allowing them to foster local talent.
Tim Colby has been coaching the Ice Lions since their inception and reminds that one can't overlook the hurdles of playing in a land known for its heat. One of the major challenges is securing ice time; with the cost nearing $100 per hour, the team typically practices only once weekly. Compounding matters, the rink is a quarter of the size of an Olympic rink, which restricts them to small games of four-on-four.
Despite these challenges, international exposure has started igniting interest in the sport. Through media coverage and partnerships with international brands, the Ice Lions secured funding and equipment, leading to transformative opportunities such as a trip to Canada. There, they trained with NHL stars and garnered equipment donations, significantly raising their skill level and visibility. Their recent victory at an exhibition tournament in South Africa further underscores their growth, displaying their ambition and potential.
The Ice Lions are also focused on nurturing future talent; they hold weekly training sessions for children eager to learn the sport. Among them is Liam Pashari, who loves the camaraderie and mentorship from coaches aiming to elevate their skills. With plans for a women's team and a shared objective to compete in future Olympics, the team is determined to prove skeptics wrong. Winger Mike Carlos boldly states, "The Kenyan flag must fly on ice," reflecting the team's commitment to leaving a mark on the global sports stage.
As the Ice Lions continue their journey, a blend of passion, resilience, and growing international support sets the stage for a brighter future, showcasing the sport's potential even in the most unexpected of places.
This newfound membership grants them access to international competitions, funding, and expert coaching, but the journey ahead is fraught with challenges. Mburu notes that the primary hurdle is meeting IIHF standards, and the Ice Lions are keenly aware of the obstacles they've faced in establishing the sport in a region where it is virtually unheard of. Originally formed by expatriates from the U.S. and Canada, the team has cleverly incorporated members from the more accessible roller hockey scene, allowing them to foster local talent.
Tim Colby has been coaching the Ice Lions since their inception and reminds that one can't overlook the hurdles of playing in a land known for its heat. One of the major challenges is securing ice time; with the cost nearing $100 per hour, the team typically practices only once weekly. Compounding matters, the rink is a quarter of the size of an Olympic rink, which restricts them to small games of four-on-four.
Despite these challenges, international exposure has started igniting interest in the sport. Through media coverage and partnerships with international brands, the Ice Lions secured funding and equipment, leading to transformative opportunities such as a trip to Canada. There, they trained with NHL stars and garnered equipment donations, significantly raising their skill level and visibility. Their recent victory at an exhibition tournament in South Africa further underscores their growth, displaying their ambition and potential.
The Ice Lions are also focused on nurturing future talent; they hold weekly training sessions for children eager to learn the sport. Among them is Liam Pashari, who loves the camaraderie and mentorship from coaches aiming to elevate their skills. With plans for a women's team and a shared objective to compete in future Olympics, the team is determined to prove skeptics wrong. Winger Mike Carlos boldly states, "The Kenyan flag must fly on ice," reflecting the team's commitment to leaving a mark on the global sports stage.
As the Ice Lions continue their journey, a blend of passion, resilience, and growing international support sets the stage for a brighter future, showcasing the sport's potential even in the most unexpected of places.
