Grizzlies Ice Hockey Club members train hard to become the champions they envisage themselves to be in the coming months.
The club trains at the Northgate Ice Rink every Sunday and team members gain skills they require to be accomplished ice hockey players. Coach Manuel Muller took over the team in January after the team changed its name from the Sweepers to the Grizzlies – a name they hope will show their intent to come out on top.
With there only being about six ice rinks nationally, ice hockey is seen as a small sport that does not get much recognition. With interest in the sport picking up, and the rise of more ice rinks around the country, hopes are that the momentum will help establish ice hockey in South Africa.
Muller said that his hopes for the team are that they will be competitive, while keeping the enjoyment of the sport intact. He went to explain that the traits for a star ice hockey player are no different than any other sport.
“Commitment, discipline, drive to improve, focus, team spirit, determination and talent are all makings of a great player,” said Muller.
He further explained that like many sports, the younger you start, the greater the possibility you will become very good. He said that once the movement on the ice becomes natural, the young player can start to focus on developing other skills. He added that experience can make a difference in the levels of the player.
In the Grizzilies Ice Hockey Club there are two age groups, the U14 team and the senior second division.
Muller said that in 2016 the club will compete in the Gauteng Ice Hockey League.
Details: Grizzlies Ice Hockey Club, GrizzliesIceHockey01@gmail.com
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