Sisters Serena & Jenna Gilani Represent Pakistan In International Tournament

Before the season started for sisters Serena and Jenna Gilani – a defenseman and center, respectively, for the 19U Northshore Warhawks and Lake Forest Academy girls’ varsity hockey teams – they traveled to Florida for an historic, cultural hockey experience.

They played for Team Pakistan in the Amerigol Latam Cup, an international tournament that breaks barriers and unites non-traditional hockey markets in a display of skill, passion and camaraderie. The event stands on the spirit of inclusivity, as teams from diverse corners of the world showcase their dedication to the sport, challenging preconceptions and proving that the love for ice hockey knows no bounds.

The Amerigol Latam Cup is a testament to the growth and global appeal of the sport, fostering a sense of community and shared enthusiasm among nations not traditionally associated with hockey.

Pakistan, for instance.

“It is a powerful feeling (wearing the Pakistan uniform), representing my culture and making my grandparents proud. That was one of the best experiences,” Serena said. “Being on (media coverage) in Pakistan, I wanted to inspire women in Pakistan who are told they aren’t allowed to play a sport.”

Jenna added: “Playing for Team Pakistan connected my love for the ice to my heritage. I thought it was amazing to play with girls my age who look like me. It was a struggle to connect instantly with girls from all over the world, but we were able to bond over dinners, hangouts and practices to form connections, which we were able to bring on the ice.

“We were representing culture, identity and our pride. It is amazing to represent a culture where women of color can play sports especially in a male-dominated sport like hockey. We were able to break stereotypes and show people who we really are.”

Team Pakistan finished with a 3-2 record in their six-team division, finishing in third place. Pakistan scored wins over Chile (twice) and Argentina; they lost twice to First Nations.

Jenna has 4 goals and an assist in 5 games; Serena had 2 goals and 2 assists.

Both finished among the top five on the team for tournament points.

“Hearing my name from the stands, called by people I had met only the day before, made me realize how powerful a community can be,” Serena said. “Throughout the tournament, I connected with players from Chile, the Caribbean, and the First Nations team, who shared how they combine cultural traditions into their pregame rituals. That experience taught me that community can be built among strangers who share the same passion. The bond we created in one week was stronger than any I had ever made in past seasons. I hadn’t just joined a team; I had found a new family.”

The left-handed shooting Serena was the 16U Warhawks, the 19U Warhawks and the 2025-26 LFA team captain. She was a USA Hockey National Championship contender and a 2024 NIHL all-star. She is the “quarterback” on the ice, particularly on the powerplay, making decisions and pushing the pace of the game. “I rely on my speed to make quick transitions while staying sharp defensively,” she said.

The left-handed shooting Jenna was the assistant captain for her 16U, 19U and LFA teams. “I am a fast skater; I hustle to the puck and have a high hockey IQ,” she said.

Both are 17, live in Skokie and formerly skated for the Skokie Flyers – and each is a four-year LFA player.

“My sister is my best friend and my biggest supporter; we hype each other up and talk to each other about what we have to work on. We have a rare connection on the ice that I’m privileged to have,” said Serena, who started skating at age 3 and has been playing hockey for eight years.

“In practices, I feel like she is my biggest competition and pushes me to work harder. When we go head-to-head on 1v1, we show lots of tough love.”

Jenna added: “I’m lucky to skate with someone who knows how I play. Our twin telepathy is what keeps our minds connected on the ice. We know each other’s every move.” She too started skating at age 3 and has been playing hockey for 10 years.

“My favorite hockey memory with my sister is how every time one of us scores, we immediately find each other on the ice and celebrate together. Every time she scores, it feels like I’m scoring, just like how I feel the same adrenaline rush.” Jenna said.

SLAPSHOTS WITH … Lake Forest Academy Defenseman Serena Gilani

Off The Ice: “I like to listen and discover music, travel, try new foods, do yoga, hanging out with friends and family, play soccer, and pray.”
Superstitions: “Wearing a neck guard makes me play worse.” 
Long-term Goals: “I plan to be an entrepreneur in the business world, coach women’s hockey and help further the game especially for women of color.”
Favorite NHL Team: Chicago Blackhawks 
Favorite NHL Player: Conner Bedard 
Favorite Sports-themed Movie: The Mighty Ducks 
Favorite TV Show: All American
Favorite Pre-game Meal: A sub sandwich
Celebrity You’d Like To Meet: Drake

SLAPSHOTS WITH … Lake Forest Academy Forward Jenna Gilani

Jersey number: 18
Career Highlight: “Representing Pakistan on a national stage and realizing I was part of a historic movement .”
It Helps, Seriously: “Eating Skittles or hot Cheetos before the game (are the) best pregame snack”
Superstitions on the Ice: “Every time I tape my stick and put my wax on, I can’t let it touch the ground until I get on the ice. If I do, I will play poorly.”
Long-term Goals: “Be an athletic trainer and from a hockey standpoint, I want to eventually give back to my own community by coaching myself and making young girls stronger.”
Hobbies: Working out and trying new food. “I also love exploring, traveling to new cities.”