Ice Lions Roar: Kenya's Rising Ice Hockey Endeavor

The Kenya Ice Lions, the nation's first ice hockey team formed in 2016, are making strides in a sport primarily suited to colder regions. Recently accepted into the International Ice Hockey Federation, the team faces challenges in training and equipment as they aim for international competitions and to inspire a new generation of players.

In Nairobi, where temperatures exceed 20°C, an ice rink at the Panari Hotel serves as the training ground for a groundbreaking sports team—the Kenya Ice Lions. This squad represents Kenya as the first ice hockey team in East Africa, and their journey began in 2016.

Team captain Benjamin Mburu recalled his surreal first experience on the ice, likening it to something out of a Christmas movie. He expressed excitement and disbelief at the opportunity to play hockey in a country widely known for its warm weather. The Ice Lions recently achieved a major milestone by becoming the fifth African team to join the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF). This recognition will grant them better access to funding and coaching expertise, opening doors to international competition.

Establishing ice hockey in a region unfamiliar with the sport has been a significant challenge for the Ice Lions. Initially formed by a group of expats from North America, the team recruited local talent by promoting roller hockey—a more accessible variant of the sport. Tim Colby, their experienced coach, emphasized the difficulties posed by the climate, particularly the costs associated with ice time, which can soar to nearly $100 for just one hour of rink access. With such high rates, the team often trains only once a week, and the smaller rink size restricts them to four-on-four games.

Securing adequate protective gear is another hurdle, as much of it is sourced from Europe and North America. Many players had to start without full equipment, often using only shin pads, while obtaining new hockey sticks could take months. However, as the Ice Lions have gained exposure through media coverage and international partnerships, they have begun to attract sponsorship and funding. This includes equipment donations that have helped elevate the play of the team.

International exposure has proven transformative for the Ice Lions. A notable trip to Canada allowed them to meet NHL stars, further igniting local interest in the sport. Mburu shared how this experience boosted their skill level and recruitment efforts, ultimately leading them to win an exhibition tournament in South Africa.

In addition to chasing international success, the Ice Lions see a critical role in nurturing the future of ice hockey in Kenya. Every Saturday, they conduct coaching sessions for aspiring young players, fostering a love for the game. Twelve-year-old Liam Pashari voiced his passion for ice hockey and the friendships he has formed while practicing with the team.

Although the Ice Lions currently have only a handful of female players, they aspire to establish a dedicated women's team. With an associate membership to the IIHF, their ambition only grows as they dream of participating in the Winter Olympics. As winger Mike Carlos stated, the Ice Lions are determined to prove that Kenyans have a rightful place in the world of ice hockey.