In brief
In Nairobi, where temperatures usually soar above 20°C, the Kenya Ice Lions are skating towards success with a newfound membership in the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF). The team, which started in 2016, is the first officially recognized ice hockey squad in East Africa and recently became the fifth African team to join the IIHF. Captain Benjamin Mburu describes stepping onto the rink for the first time as exhilarating, as ice hockey is largely unknown in his home country.
Despite the challenges of training in a hot climate, including limited ice time and the high cost of equipment, the Ice Lions have made remarkable progress. Their dedication caught the attention of international sponsors and enabled them to compete in tournaments abroad. A recent trip to Canada, where they met NHL stars, showcased their journey and allowed them to acquire necessary equipment. The Ice Lions are committed not just to competing but also to nurturing local talent, running weekly training for young aspiring players. Exciting goals are on the horizon, including aspirations for a female team and plans to ultimately represent Kenya at the Winter Olympics. As winger Mike Carlos states, “The Kenyan flag must fly on ice,” challenging perceptions that ice hockey isn’t for Kenyans. The Ice Lions are not just about sport; they embody the spirit of breaking boundaries and proving that passion can thrive, even at the equator.
