Kobe first started playing Inline Hockey with the East Kilbride Eagles in 2009 aged 8. Originally playing for the under 10’s, he quickly found himself playing up for the under 12’s. Playing against older and more mature players allowed Kobe to develop quickly in the sport.
In 2011 Kobe was selected to represent Scotland in the GBHI (Great Britain Hockey Inline) conference games. Teams from England, Wales and other locally selected squads competed in an extremely exciting competition.
Towards the end of 2011 Kobe suffered a major setback as he developed a serious ear disease which has left him partially deaf. He was not able to take part in sports for approx 6 months and it proved a difficult time in his life.
Once given the all clear Kobe took the opportunity with both hands and dedicated himself to progressing in hockey and also ventured into other sports. He also trained in swimming, football and Olympic Weightlifting. Proving to be successful in all disciplines Kobe has found himself winning medals in various regional and national competitions.
In 2012 Kobe was again selected to represent Scotland, this time in the BIPHA (British Inline Puck Hockey Assoc.) conference games. He was also successful in securing a place in the Great Britain Team as they competed in the Amateur Athletic Union Junior Olympic Games & the Federation International de Roller Sports World Youth Cup which were held in Anaheim, California.
At the start of the 2013/2014, Kobe was given the Captain’s armband for the EK Eagles under 12’s team. He continues to play up for the under 14’s which is essential for his development. He is proving to be an effective player and regularly scores points for both age groups. Following trials in late 2013, Kobe was re-selected for the Scotland Team as they competed at the BIPHA Superleague Championships which was held on Easter Sunday in Rotherham, England. They brought home the Gold.
He has also been re-selected for the Great Britain Inline Hockey team and will travel to Las Vegas, USA as they compete in the FIRS World Cup and the AAU Inline Hockey Junior Olympics which are being held in July: a truly wonderful achievement.
In 2013 Kobe's sporting efforts were recognised by the East Kilbride Sports Council who awarded him the Junior Sports Personality of the Year. This year he was given the same award, this is the first time anyone has won back to back awards at this level.
He is immensely proud of this achievement.
The future is very bright for Kobe; we hope you will join him on his journey.
