From Doha to Bangkok: Johann Sebastien Garcia Skates for the Philippines on the SEA Games Stage

At just a young age, Johann Sebastien Garcia has already traveled a remarkable journey, one defined by discipline, faith, leadership, and an unrelenting love for ice hockey. Today, that journey reaches a historic milestone as Johann has been selected to represent the Philippines in the Senior Men’s category of the Philippine National Ice Hockey Team at the 2025 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Bangkok, Thailand.

For the Garcia family, the announcement is both a moment of pride and deep gratitude. For the Filipino community, at home and abroad, it is a powerful reminder that talent, perseverance, and national pride know no borders.

Johann Sebastian Garcia

A Global Education Grounded in Purpose

Johann’s development has never been confined to the rink alone. He was homeschooled for nearly seven years under WCFS Maryland (Homeschool Global & VCIS), an experience that allowed him to balance rigorous academics with elite athletic training. He is currently completing Grade 11 at Beta Cambridge in Qatar, laying the groundwork for his future university studies.

Beyond academics, Johann is also an active member of Every Nation Campus (ENC), an international organization dedicated to shaping young leaders through values of integrity, excellence, faith, and service. This holistic foundation has played a vital role in shaping not just the athlete Johann has become, but the leader he continues to grow into.

A Passion for Hockey, Forged Early

Johann first laced up his skates at the age of six, and he has never looked back. His ice hockey journey spans continents, leagues, and competitive levels, reflecting both versatility and resilience. Since 2018, he has been part of the Qatar National Ice Hockey Team Program, gaining exposure to high-level competition and international play.

His career highlights include competing in the United States, UAE, Thailand, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, and the Philippines, earning multiple podium finishes, MVP awards, and leadership roles, including alternate captaincies and team captain honors.

The Player: Smart, Fast, and Relentless

A center/left wing who shoots right, Johann is widely regarded as a high-IQ, two-way forward. Coaches value him for his:

• Exceptional faceoff ability

• Strong puck protection

• Consistently high compete level

• Calm execution under pressure

An all-situations player, Johann is trusted on the power play, penalty kill, and in crucial late-game defensive zone faceoffs. His vision, playmaking ability, and leadership on the ice make him a cornerstone wherever he plays.

A Growing List of International Achievements

From youth leagues to senior men’s tournaments, Johann’s resume reflects steady growth and excellence. Among his notable achievements are multiple Queen’s Cup appearances, international league medals, MVP recognitions, and serving as team captain for the Philippine U16 team in 2025.

Now, stepping into the Senior Men’s National Team at the SEA Games, Johann reaches a new level, competing on one of Southeast Asia’s biggest sporting stages.

Skating with Purpose, Playing for Country

More than medals or titles, Johann’s journey is driven by a deeper mission: to bring honor to the Philippines, uplift fellow Filipinos, and inspire the next generation of young athletes, especially those growing up far from home.

Johann's Family - parents and siblings

As his family humbly shares, this achievement is ultimately a testament to faith, perseverance, and gratitude. “We give thanks and glory to God for this journey,” they say, a sentiment echoed by every stride Johann takes on the ice.

As the 2025 SEA Games kicks off, one thing is certain: when Johann Sebastien Garcia skates onto the ice in Bangkok, he carries not just a jersey, but the pride of a nation and the dreams of many who believe that with dedication and heart, anything is possible.