A recent feature in The Nation highlights the journey of Ken Kindborn, the Swedish-Thai captain of Thailand’s national ice hockey team. At 29 years old, Kindborn plays a pivotal role in developing the sport in a country where ice hockey remains a niche discipline.
Born in Thailand, Kindborn moved to Sweden at the age of six, where he was first introduced to the game that would shape his life. His father took him to an ice rink, and from that moment, he was hooked.
“I have loved ice hockey since that very first experience,” Kindborn recalls.
Despite the lack of professional ice hockey infrastructure in Thailand, Kindborn and his teammates train three times a week in Bangkok, balancing their passion with other professional commitments. Beyond leading the national team, Kindborn also coaches young players, helping foster the next generation of Thai ice hockey talent.
His leadership will be crucial as Thailand competes in international tournaments, including the 9th Asian Winter Games. While the team features players of diverse backgrounds, Kindborn remains focused on unity and progress, emphasizing, “Despite our diverse backgrounds, we are all Thai.”
As Thailand’s national ice hockey captain, Kindborn represents the fusion of Swedish and Thai sporting cultures, bringing Nordic experience to a growing Southeast Asian team. His journey serves as an inspiration for young athletes looking to break into unconventional sports in the region.
Read full feature in The Nation here.
