Pakistan men’s ice hockey team wins gold in Latam

REMARKABLE ACHIEVEMENT: Pakistan Men’s team is celebrating their victory at the Amerigol Latam Cup 2025.

Pakistan have etched its name in ice hockey history with a remarkable performance at the Amerigol Latam Cup 2025, showcasing the nation’s growing talent on an international stage.

The men’s national team clinched the Division III championship title after an unbeaten run, while the women’s team secured bronze in Division II during their debut appearance — a feat that has captured global attention.

The Latam Cup, hosted in Coral Springs, Florida, is designed to promote ice hockey in non-traditional markets. This year’s edition featured 62 teams and over 1,450 players representing 17 countries and territories, according to the National Hockey League (NHL), which supports the event to help break barriers and unite diverse regions through the sport.

Pakistan’s men’s team delivered a flawless campaign, highlighted by a 6-1 victory over Peru in the championship final. The triumph marked a dramatic turnaround from their 2024 debut, when they managed just a single win.

On social media, the team proudly declared: “Pakistan men’s Division III champions! Undefeated run capped off with gold. What a tournament!”

Donny Khan, NHL’s senior director of hockey development and strategic collaboration, who helped form Pakistan’s teams, admitted he was stunned by their rapid rise.

“I thought we’d be winning several years from now. I didn’t think we’d be doing this in year two,” he said.

A Bronze in first try

The women’s squad also made headlines, fighting bravely despite a roster of just 10–12 players. Their determination earned them a bronze medal in their first-ever international competition.

Coach Kameron Sabir called it “an amazing day for the country and ice hockey” and praised both squads for their achievements.

Mariya Rauf, who both coached the women’s team and plays for Yale University’s Division I program, spoke of the passion driving the sport forward in Pakistan.

“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,” she said, holding a cricket bat gifted by her players.

Bright Future

The NHL noted that many participating countries, including Pakistan, lack internationally certified ice rinks. Tournaments like the Latam Cup not only provide valuable exposure but also highlight the need for greater investment in facilities and support from sports federations and Olympic committees.

Despite these challenges, Pakistan’s remarkable showing in Florida signals the dawn of a new chapter for ice hockey in the country — one driven by passion, perseverance, and undeniable potential.

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