Kylington, Oduya helping to grow hockey in Africa

[tvp2003]

From Salim Valji:

On the same weekend the second round of the Stanley Cup playoffs was being played in North America, a different hockey game featuring NHL talent was taking place in a large parking lot on the streets of Nairobi, Kenya.

Twenty-four-year-old Calgary Flames defenceman Oliver Kylington and 39-year-old Johnny Oduya, who played 850 games in the NHL from 2006-18, were in the East African country playing roller hockey with locals and the Kenya Ice Lions, the nation’s only team playing organized hockey.

The pair of defencemen also donated equipment through sponsors, visited neighbourhoods and met with locals.

...

“I would say it’s been the best trip of my life so far,” Kylington said.

“I’m taking a lot with me. It’s been amazing. It’s so hard to put into words. For me as a grown-up now, coming back to Africa, you understand more about stuff in life. You’re seeing what people really fight for and how hockey can bring joy to them. It’s amazing and unbelievable to see that passion…just them loving the game.”

https://www.tsn.ca/calgary-flames-ky...rica-1.1651368

[Canada 02]

sounds similar to something Andrew Ference did when he was with the Flames; he then got Regehr involved, then Chara and Bergeron, after he was traded to the Bruins

Not surprised. The Flames and their Players are very community oriented; actually, NHL hockey players are as well

[BurningSteel]

Great story, Hopefully hes still around in training camp and takes the next step.

[Psytic]

Originally Posted by BurningSteel

Great story, Hopefully hes still around in training camp and takes the next step.

I sound like a broken record but they should try him at forward before they cut ties imo. Maybe he isnt the greatest at actual defense but with his speed he would be able to get behind defenders on the rush, maybe be another option on zone entries and on the PP to distribute the puck to our slower players.

[CroFlames]

A lot to like with Kylington.