Hockey is experiencing significant growth in Latin America and the Caribbean, fueled by the Copa Amerigol LATAM and a new NHL documentary series that highlighted the growing passion for the sport in the region. These initiatives are bringing hockey to new audiences and motivating future generations of players.
Traditionally, hockey has not been the most popular sport in Latin America and the Caribbean, where the sport is like football, basketball and basketball dominant. However, hockey is starting to give up its role, thanks to the efforts of enthusiastic players, committed organizers and an expanding community of fans. The Copa Amerigol LATAM, celebrated this year at the Florida Panthers IceDen, is a clear example of this growing movement.
A Celebration of Diversity in Hockey
Since its inception in 2018, the Copa Amerigol LATAM has consolidated itself as a key event for hockey in the region. This year, the tournament gathered 52 teams and more than 1,100 players from 17 countries, including Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico and several Caribbean nations. Teams competed in seven divisions, from youth categories to men's and women's divisions, reflecting the diversity of talent in the region.
One of the most devastating moments was the victory of the Cuban-American men's team, which won the Division I championship in its first participation, defeating Greece 4-3. The enthusiasm of the fans, who were animated by the sound of ollas and sartenes, brought a vibrant energy to the event, showing the pride they feel for hockey.
Coach Earle Barrington expressed his desire for the world to recognize the inclusion in soccer: “We want the world to know that everyone can play hockey.” This inclusive spirit is central to Copa LATAM, which seeks to demonstrate that hockey is accessible to all, regardless of their origin.
Documenting the Rise of Hockey
The history of hockey in this region is now told in a much broader way in the documentary series «This Is Hockey», produced by NHL Productions. This series of episodes that will be broadcast this time, will explore the efforts to develop hockey in countries where the sport is in its early stages. Collin Kornfeind and Donny Khan, involved with Copa LATAM since its inception, have traveled to various countries to capture the stories of players and organizers who play to stimulate hockey in their communities.
Khan said: “The tournament shows that hockey is played all over the world.” The series aims to inspire new generations of players and fans, showing that the passion for hockey can flourish anywhere.
Challenges and opportunities
Despite growing excitement, teams in Latin America and the Caribbean have faced significant challenges in competing at the international level. The lack of adequate infrastructure, such as regulated ice rinks, and high team costs are obstacles that must be overcome. However, the Copa LATAM and the attention generated by the NHL series are creating opportunities for the development of the sport.
Argentina, for example, has begun building a cubierta track in Buenos Aires, which will allow for more training and skill development. Other countries, such as Argentina, are also seeking recognition and have surpassed their enthusiasm in the tournament.
A future promoted
The growth of hockey in Latin America and the Caribbean is a testament to the dedication of those who love the sport. As more teams and players emerge, the possibility of seeing representatives from the region compete in world championships and Olympic games becomes more realistic. Copa LATAM has become a crucial platform to showcase the talent and competitiveness of these teams.
The NHL, through its Industry Growth Fund and series of documents, is contributing to this growth, signaling its commitment to expanding hockey globally. The passion of players and coaches suggests that hockey is bound to settle in places where the ice has gone.
The expansion of hockey in Latin America and the Caribbean is a powerful example of how the sport can cross cultural and geographic borders. Copa Amerigol LATAM and the “This Is Hockey” series not only seek to popularize the sport, but also build an inclusive community around it.
