In brief
In Nairobi, where temperatures soar above 20°C, one unique venue remains consistently frozen: the Panari Hotel, home to the only ice rink in East and Central Africa and a training base for the Kenya Ice Lions, the nation's first ice hockey team. Established in 2016, this team is paving the way for a sport traditionally linked to colder climates.
Ice Lions captain, Benjamin Mburu, recalls stepping onto the ice for the first time, describing the experience as "out of this world." Recently, the Ice Lions achieved membership in the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF), becoming the fifth African team to join the global governing body. This milestone unlocks new avenues for funding, coaching expertise, and international competition exposure.The team's challenges have been significant, from navigating a sport relatively unknown in East Africa to finding affordable ice time. Tim Colby, the team's coach, mentions that each hour at the Panari Hotel rink costs almost $100, limiting training sessions to just once a week. Despite these obstacles, the Ice Lions have gained recognition and support, culminating in a transformational trip to Canada, where they met NHL stars and secured equipment donations.Their commitment to introducing younger generations to the sport is evident through weekly training sessions for children. Notably, plans are in motion to establish a women's team. With growing visibility and aspirations of competing in the Winter Olympics, the Ice Lions are determined to showcase that Kenyans can excel in ice hockey."We must show them that we have arrived," says forward Mike Carlos. The Ice Lions' story is a testament to determination, proving that sports can transcend climates and cultures.
