(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Pakistan Ice Hockey Teams Shine with Gold and Bronze at LATAM Cup
Florida : The chants of “Pakistan Zindabad!” echoed across the Panthers IceDen in Coral Springs, Florida, as Pakistan’s men’s ice hockey team created history by winning gold in the LATAM Cup Division III. Just a year after forming, and without a single ice rink in the country, the team won all five matches to secure the title.
Adding to the celebration, the women’s team also made history, earning a bronze medal in Division II during their debut tournament.
From Dream to Reality
The journey began with Adnan “Donny” Khan, a Karachi-born hockey professional who worked with the NHL, USA Hockey, and Hockey Canada. Driven by the idea of showcasing Pakistan positively on the global stage, he built a team of diaspora players with the support of the Pakistan Winter Sports Federation.
The first attempt in 2023 was tough, with just 13 skaters and one goalie. But this year, with better recruitment and greater unity, Pakistan stunned opponents with their energy and skill.
Sacrifice and Unity
Without sponsors, the project was fueled by fundraising and contributions from players’ families. Recruitment came through social media and hockey databases, where co-captains Zaakir Khan and Tariq Khan searched for Pakistani-origin players worldwide.
The squad, meeting just days before the event, bonded instantly. “We became a family,” Zaakir said. That chemistry translated into results, with Pakistan dominating every match and defeating Peru 6-1 in the final.
Women’s Breakthrough
Inspired by the men’s efforts, Donny’s daughter Riley Khan and head coach Mariya Rauf, a Yale NCAA Division I player, built Pakistan’s first women’s ice hockey team. Despite challenges, they fought hard and secured a bronze medal.
“It wasn’t just about hockey; it was about opening doors for Pakistani women in sports,” Mariya said.
A New Beginning
The men’s team now moves up to Division II, while both squads look forward to expanding their programs. For the players, the dream is about more than medals.
“Kids in Pakistan can now see us representing the flag in ice hockey,” said forward Mahd Nasir. “That gives them hope that anything is possible.”
