Scottish Ice Hockey’s recreational section is introducing something new for 2026, with the launch of the Recreational Shield.
Taking place across Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th April at Dumfries Ice Bowl, the competition adds another layer to the end-of-season calendar, creating more opportunities for players to be part of a national tournament weekend.
The Shield has been designed for players who didn’t make their club’s Cup, Plate, Quaich or Bowl squads. On the recreational circuit these sides are often referred to as ‘B’ teams – and occasionally even ‘C’ teams – but the standard across the weekend is expected to be strong, with a competitive edge running throughout.
A full weekend of hockey
Twelve teams will take to the ice, split into two pools, before progressing into semi-finals and a final on Sunday evening.
Each side will play a full round of games within their group, meaning plenty of ice time across the weekend. In total, the tournament features 33 games over two days, keeping things moving from the first face-off on Saturday morning right through to the final.
It’s a format that keeps things simple but effective — regular games, quick turnarounds, and a clear path through to the knockout stages.
Teams involved
The draw has produced two evenly balanced pools, with clubs from across the country represented.
Pool A includes Aberdeen Predators, Edinburgh Knights and Lowland Raiders, alongside two Mariners sides and Edinburgh Stingers.
Over in Pool B, Glasgow Mustangs and Highlanders are joined by Hawks, Highland Capitals, Kraken and Hamilton Hawks.
Each team faces the others in their group before standings are decided and the top sides move on.
Fast-paced format
Games across the weekend are played in a single-period format with a running clock, keeping the schedule tight and the action consistent.
It means there’s always something happening on the ice, with very little downtime between games and a steady flow of hockey throughout both days.
Teams will need to be ready to go early and stay sharp across the full weekend, with fixtures running from morning through to evening.
Plan your weekend
The full match schedule and tournament details are available to download, giving teams and supporters everything they need to follow the action.
From game timings to competition rules, everything is covered to help you plan across the two days
Free to attend
There’s no entry fee for spectators, so anyone can come along to Dumfries Ice Bowl and take in the action.
With 12 teams involved and games running across the entire weekend, it’s a chance to see a different side of the game — competitive, fast-paced, and built around participation.
A new addition to the calendar
The Recreational Shield is a straightforward idea, but an important one. It gives more players the chance to be involved at the end of the season, strengthens the recreational pathway, and adds even more hockey to an already busy weekend.
For 2026, it’s a new competition — but one that looks set to become a regular part of the calendar.
