Since their inception, the Ice Lions have had to navigate numerous challenges, including the high costs associated with accessing the ice rink at Nairobi's Panari Hotel, the only rink in East and Central Africa. Captain Benjamin Mburu describes the thrilling yet slippery experience of stepping onto the ice for the first time, highlighting the unfamiliarity of the sport in a predominantly warm climate.
Founded by expatriates from the U.S. and Canada, the Ice Lions initially recruited players through roller hockey. Due to scarce resources, the squad has often trained with limited ice time and less-than-ideal equipment. Tim Colby, the team's coach, emphasizes the importance of love for the game and dedication in overcoming obstacles, asserting that the Ice Lions have built a name in the hockey fraternity.
The team's international exposure increased after a trip to Canada that allowed players to meet NHL stars and secure vital sponsorships. This exposure has helped diversify the team's skill set and improve local participation in the sport, as exemplified by their recent success in South Africa's exhibition tournament.
The Ice Lions aim to build a legacy by nurturing young talent, holding training sessions every Saturday for aspiring players. They are also looking to expand their roster to include more female players as they strive for the ultimate goal: representing Kenya at the Winter Olympics.
Despite skepticism regarding Kenyans' capabilities in ice hockey, the Ice Lions are determined to prove their naysayers wrong. "The Kenyan flag must fly on ice," declares winger Mike Carlos, embodying the team's ambition to solidify its presence in the sport globally.
Founded by expatriates from the U.S. and Canada, the Ice Lions initially recruited players through roller hockey. Due to scarce resources, the squad has often trained with limited ice time and less-than-ideal equipment. Tim Colby, the team's coach, emphasizes the importance of love for the game and dedication in overcoming obstacles, asserting that the Ice Lions have built a name in the hockey fraternity.
The team's international exposure increased after a trip to Canada that allowed players to meet NHL stars and secure vital sponsorships. This exposure has helped diversify the team's skill set and improve local participation in the sport, as exemplified by their recent success in South Africa's exhibition tournament.
The Ice Lions aim to build a legacy by nurturing young talent, holding training sessions every Saturday for aspiring players. They are also looking to expand their roster to include more female players as they strive for the ultimate goal: representing Kenya at the Winter Olympics.
Despite skepticism regarding Kenyans' capabilities in ice hockey, the Ice Lions are determined to prove their naysayers wrong. "The Kenyan flag must fly on ice," declares winger Mike Carlos, embodying the team's ambition to solidify its presence in the sport globally.
