MYSURU: Two young athletes with strong family roots in Karnataka have achieved a significant milestone in their sporting journey after earning selection to competitive ice hockey teams under the Frisco Hockey Association in Texas for the Summer 2026 season.
The achievement belongs to brothers Mayon Machaiah Merianda and Krish Machaiah Merianda, whose dedication and years of training have helped them progress through the ranks of youth ice hockey in the United States. Their success has been warmly welcomed by family members and well-wishers in Mysuru and Kodagu, where ice hockey remains a relatively uncommon sport.
Fifteen-year-old Mayon, a Grade 10 student at Independence High School in Frisco, has been selected for the association’s Varsity squad. The promotion reflects his strong performances in recent seasons and marks an important step forward in his development as a competitive athlete.
His younger brother Krish, who recently completed Grade 8 at Nelson Middle School, has secured a place in the Junior Varsity team. Coaches have praised his steady improvement, discipline, and commitment, which have contributed to his advancement within the program.
The brothers’ achievements are the result of years of structured coaching, intensive practice sessions, and participation in competitive tournaments. Their selection for the Summer 2026 teams highlights their growing reputation in a sport known for its speed, skill, and physical demands.
Despite being raised in the United States, the brothers maintain strong ties with their ancestral roots in Karnataka. They belong to the respected Meriyanda family of Kodagu, whose heritage is linked to the historic Meriyanda Ain Mane. Their grandmother, Sharada Thimmayya, resides in Mysuru, helping preserve the family’s close connection to the region.
Regular visits to Mysuru and Kodagu have enabled the brothers to remain connected to their culture, traditions, and extended family. Their journey demonstrates how young athletes can pursue international sporting ambitions while staying grounded in their heritage.
As the Summer 2026 ice hockey season approaches, supporters in both Texas and Karnataka will be following Mayon and Krish with keen interest, hoping to see the talented brothers continue their rise in one of North America’s most competitive sports.
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