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Every stick has a story — discover how Sticks Together is sharing the game and building community worldwide.
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Every stick has a story — discover how Sticks Together is sharing the game and building community worldwide.
For Immediate Release
October 7, 2025
Sticks Together Commits to Sponsoring Kenya’s Girls’ and Women’s Hockey Programs —Launches Campaign to Support Education On and Off the Ice
Ottawa, ON — Sticks Together, an international non-profit that uses hockey as a tool for education and empowerment, announced today that it will sponsor ice time for the Kenya IceLionesses, the country’s only girls’ and women’s hockey program.
The sponsorship guarantees the players access to the rink over the next nine months — covering the team’s single largest expense. With rink costs averaging nearly 15,000 Kenyan shillings($160 CAD) per hour, this commitment ensures that the Ice Lionesses can focus on developing their skills and building the future of girls hockey in Kenya.
“When I first visited Kenya, I saw the potential to create something truly meaningful,” saidSarah Thompson, Founder and Executive Director of Sticks Together. “For these young women, stepping onto the ice isn’t just about hockey — it’s about experiencing something new, finding joy, and having a safe outlet. Hockey is just the beginning; it’s a gateway to opportunity, growth, and building a brighter future.”
Alongside the rink sponsorship, Sticks Together is launching a new campaign to support the girls beyond hockey. Funds raised will help cover school fees and supplies, provide tutoring and literacy programs, and deliver essential life skills training such as first aid and leadership development.
“This partnership is a lifeline for our players,” said Tim Colby, coach of the Kenya Ice Lions.“Ice time is our greatest challenge, and without it, the team cannot exist. Thanks to SticksTogether, our girls will have the chance to develop not only as hockey players but also as leaders in their schools and communities. The impact will be felt far beyond the rink.”
For many players, the return to the ice represents more than just a sport — it’s a chance to reclaim a sense of community and confidence. “It feels amazing to be back on the ice and part of a women’s team again,” shared Elizabeth Nyathira Wangui (Sebeto), 21. “After such a long break following the pandemic, this opportunity means so much. It’s not only a chance to play again but also to grow and connect with other passionate players. I can’t wait to get started.”
The initiative comes as Sticks Together continues to expand its global impact. Since 2022, the organization has delivered hockey and educational programs in Argentina, South Africa, the Philippines, and Kenya.
To learn more, get involved, or donate, please visit our website: www.stickstogether.org.
About Sticks Together
Founded in 2022, Sticks Together is a Canadian non-profit based in Ottawa that brings hockey to under-resourced communities around the world. By combining access to the sport with educational support, the organization creates opportunities for children to learn, grow, and connect on and off the ice.
About the Kenya Ice Lionesses
The Kenya Ice Lionesses are the women's national team run under the Kenya Federation of IceSports which is the sole governing body for ice hockey in Kenya. The program creates opportunities for girls and women to play a sport traditionally out of reach in East Africa. Despite limited resources and high costs, the Lionesses have become a symbol of resilience and empowerment, inspiring young women across Nairobi. Their commitment extends beyond hockey, with a focus on education, leadership, and community development.
Media Contact:
Sarah Thompson
Founder & Executive Director
sarah@stickstogether.org
613-325-4067