Jacob skates with passion

Pilling up struggles of everyday life, could be enough to dampen anyone’s spirit.  This however is not the case for 19-year-old Jacob Shange, who despite the adversities that life has thrown at him, has managed to glide through his troubles while boasting a beaming smile.

Almost a year ago, the passionate youngster first stepped onto the ice while volunteering at the Galleria Ice Rink and was instantly a natural.  Practice makes perfect, and as time went on, Jacob soon mastered his skill and tried his hand at ice hockey.  It was indeed an honour for the talented individual when he was given the opportunity to participate with members of the Durba Knights Ice Hockey Club, in his first KZNIHA League Non Contact Match on Sunday, 24 November.  On the ice, he took on the position of left winger.  At first sight, Jacob can be described as a positive and extroverted young man, however, he only gained the confidence once he stepped into a pair of ice skates.

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“I love being on the ice, it makes me so happy.  To me there is no better feeling.  Growing up, I was a very reserved child, I never wanted to play sport or interact with others.  But the more I worked with people on the ice, the more I grew out of my shell,” said the jubilant Jacob.

Training for ice hockey takes place every Sunday for about two hours, however he leaves home two hours earlier since he walks to and from the Galleria Ice Rink and Kwamakhutha. During training sessions, Jacob, together with his teammates, practices how to pass the puck and how to work together as a family.  Unfortunately, due to financial reasons, Jacob was forced to leave school after finishing Grade 11.  He dreams of matriculating one day.  However, for now, his main focus is making ends meet at home, he takes on odd jobs and also volunteers at Operation Bobbi Bear and helps out at the Galleria Ice Rink however possible.

“My dream is to one day build a home for my mum.  She works so hard and I want to thank her for everything that she has done,” he said.

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While, he is still finding his niche, Jacob is nothing short of incredible and an absolute delight to watch on the ice.  When asked if he would try his hand at figure skating, he explained that because he is a person of risk, he would be more than delighted to dabble in other form of sport on the ice aside from hockey.

“Being on the ice is definitely my happy place.  I always meet and interact with new people.  And whatever I do, it’s always done out of love,” added Jacob.

To assist Jacob, you can reach him on 073-035-9538.

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