Ice hockey is a popular sport in the Hunza region of Pakistan, known for its picturesque mountain landscapes and cold winter temperatures. The game is played on natural ice rinks, which are formed on frozen lakes and rivers during the winter months.
The sport is relatively new to Hunza, with the first organized ice hockey teams and tournaments emerging in the last decade. However, it has quickly gained popularity among the local population, with many young people taking up the sport.
Ice hockey in Hunza is played with a traditional rubber puck, and the rules of the game are similar to those of the National Hockey League (NHL) in North America. Teams are made up of six players, including a goalkeeper, and are typically sponsored by local businesses and organizations.
One of the main challenges of playing ice hockey in Hunza is the lack of proper equipment and facilities. Many players have to make do with makeshift equipment, such as homemade sticks and pads, and there are currently no dedicated ice rinks in the region. Despite these challenges, the passion and dedication of the players is undeniable, and the sport continues to grow in popularity.
The annual Hunza Ice Hockey Tournament is the biggest event in the ice hockey calendar in Hunza. The tournament is held on the frozen Attabad Lake, and attracts teams from across the region and neighboring areas. The tournament is a major event in the local community, with many people coming out to watch the games and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
In conclusion, ice hockey is a growing sport in Hunza, Pakistan despite the lack of proper equipment and facilities. The passion and dedication of the players, along with the natural frozen lakes and rivers, has helped the sport to thrive in the region. The annual Hunza Ice Hockey Tournament is the biggest event in the ice hockey calendar in Hunza, attracting teams from across the region and neighboring areas.