DUBAI – How often do you think of the Arab World when you think hockey?  Not often we bet.  Two recent events have made an impact on us here at Pro Hockey News. 

First, Pro Hockey News is pleased to announce that it will be covering the Arab Cup 2009 with a reporter on the scene.  Karim Kerbouche signed on as a correspondent for Pro Hockey News.  Karim is with the Algerian National Hockey Team which will be competing in the Arab Cup 2009.  Karim’s coverage will begin in May.

The second event was the departure of Randy Murphy, head coach of the New Mexico Scorpions in the CHL, on a trip to Dubai to skate with and visit his brother who plays for the Dubai Might Camels.

Murphy will be providing Pro Hockey News with updates on his trip to the Middle East for the next week or so.

“We had a skate last night at the Dubai Rink with the guys from the Dubai Mighty Camels League,” reports Murphy.  “They have about 150 guys in the league with a wide range of talent.  We played with a few guys who are Emiratis (UAE National).” 

Courtesy New Mexico Scorpions

A number of ex-pats in the region have coalesced into a thriving and successful league. 

“The Nationals were actually better than I anticipated,” Murphy said.  “We skated hard and it was a good workout.” 

“The skate was just a tune up for some of the guys for the Tournament which starts Wednesday Night and goes through until Saturday” Murphy added. 

The head coach will provide ongoing commentary this week as the tournament progresses in Dubai.

Contact rmurphy@scorpionshockey.com

Catch additional commentary from Randy Murphy at Scorpions Hockey