Falkland ice hockey team competes in an international tournament although they have never practiced on an ice rink

A hockey team is about to compete in an international tournament – ​​even though they have never practiced on an ice rink.

Many under-20s have never skated.

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Instead, members of the Stanley Penguins – based in the Falkland Islands – use roller blades to practice.

Their outsider story is reminiscent of the Jamaican bobsled team in the 1993 film Cool Runnings.

The Penguins will compete alongside teams from Central and South America and beyond in the Amerigol Latam Cup, which begins Thursday in Miami.

The British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic has a population of just over 3,200, making it the smallest country to field a team in the tournament.

Grant Budd, coach and founder of the Penguins, said, “It’s been three years since many from the team have played on ice, but everyone is looking forward to playing again.”

Amanda Milling, UK Minister for the Falkland Islands, said: “I have a feeling the penguins will love the ice like ducks love water.”