Iranian women may appear to be completely unfamiliar with ice hockey, yet they are defying expectations and achieving remarkable success in it. In spite of social, logistical, and financial obstacles, their unwavering devotion to the sport has reshaped its position in the nation.
Soheila Khosravi, a 17-year-old athlete, considers hockey to be her vocation. She uprooted her life in Isfahan and spent time training at Tehran’s one Olympic ice rink, abandoning her family in the process. “It’s tough to live here alone, but I’m doing it for the love of hockey,” she revealed.
Quick expansion has been the hallmark of the women’s ice hockey league since its 2021 debut. The Iranian squad made history last year as they won the 2024 IIHF Asia and Oceania Cup. This victory provided hope for female athletes and established ice hockey as a prominent sport in Iran.
More women than males play hockey in Iran, making it stand out among hockey countries worldwide. President of Iran’s ice hockey organization Kaveh Sedghi applauds the move, praising the bravery and resolve displayed by Iranian women on the ice.
The path to success, nevertheless, is not without its obstacles. The expense of equipment is high, and athletes, including national player Dorsa Rahmani, are required to wear headscarves while competing. The typical Iranian monthly salary is about the same as the price of a single hockey stick, which is $200. Players demonstrate incredible perseverance and skill in the face of adversity, being utterly committed to their craft.
The Iranian women’s hockey team has ushered in a new era in Iranian sports history, ascending from humble beginnings to achieving widespread recognition.
