At only 16 years of age, Eli Paek is a rising ice hockey star whose journey began at age three. Captaining the Canterbury U15 team, Eli earned recognition as the nation's top forward and Canterbury MVP. He has since represented New Zealand at the 2024 and 2025 IIHF World Championships in Turkey and Mexico and trained at Delta Hockey Academy in Canada, competing in the highly competitive CSSHL league. Eli now plays for the senior Canterbury Red Devils and has been selected for the 2025 MAKO team, comprising U23 players from across the country. This Grant will support Eli’s travel, equipment, and training for the IIHF World Championships as he pursues his dream of representing NZ at the highest level. Eli is committed to developing his leadership skills and mentoring younger players to help grow the sport in New Zealand.