SPORTS
Pakistan has made history at the Amerigol Latam Cup ice hockey tournament in Coral Springs, Florida, showcasing its emerging talent on the international stage. On Thursday, the men’s national team clinched the Division III championship title after an unbeaten run, while the women’s team earned a Division II bronze medal in their debut appearance.
The Latam Cup, organized to promote ice hockey in non-traditional markets, featured 62 teams with over 1,450 players representing 17 countries and territories. According to the National Hockey League (NHL), the event aims to break barriers and unite diverse regions through the sport.
Pakistan’s men’s team delivered a flawless performance throughout the tournament, defeating Peru 6-1 in the championship final. This marked a stunning turnaround from last year’s debut when Pakistan secured only a single victory.
“Pakistan men’s Division III champions! Undefeated run capped off with gold. What a tournament!” the team celebrated in an Instagram post.
Donny Khan, NHL’s senior director of hockey development and strategic collaboration, who helped form the Pakistani teams, expressed surprise at their rapid success. “I thought we’d be winning several years from now. I didn’t think we’d be doing this in year two,” he said.
Coach Kameron Sabir praised the team’s achievement, calling it “an amazing day for the country and ice hockey.” He also lauded the women’s team, which, despite having only 10–12 players, fought hard to secure bronze in their very first international competition.
Mariya Rauf, who coached the women’s squad and also plays for Yale University’s Division I team, highlighted the growing passion for ice hockey in Pakistan. Holding a cricket bat gifted by her players, she remarked: “Cricket is our national sport, but after this, it shows hockey’s growing every single day. There’s talent, and we’re just going to keep getting better.”
The NHL noted that many participating countries lack proper ice rinks that meet international standards. Events like the Latam Cup offer these nations the chance to showcase talent, with the hope that success on the ice will encourage investment in facilities and greater support from sports federations and Olympic committees.
Pakistan’s remarkable showing in Florida signals the beginning of a new chapter for the country in the world of ice hockey, blending passion, perseverance, and potential into a truly historic achievement.