Category: News

Group discount for the U20 World Championship in Dumfries.

This DecemberDumfries Ice Bowl will be hosting the 2024 IIHF ICE HOCKEY U20 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP Division II, Group A. With Great Britain competing against Spain, Korea, China, Netherlands and Lithuania. 

What a great opportunity for all our young players to see first hand what it is like to play for Great Britain. And to make it even more accessible they are offering discounted group bookings. Check out the details below.

SNL Weekend Preview


picture by Craig Chalmers

A big weekend in the Scottish National League (SNL), featuring six compelling matchups that promise excitement, rivalries, and potential shifts in the league standings.

Saturday Highlights:

First up on Saturday, the Dundee Comets will face off against the Kirkcaldy Kestrels at Dundee Ice Arena in a double point game. The Kestrels, sitting in 2nd place, have the opportunity for a massive 6-point weekend, as they also play on Sunday against the Edinburgh Capitals. However, the Comets, who secured a 4-2 win against the Kestrels in their last SNL meeting, are determined to replicate that success in this crucial 4-point game. A victory for the Comets could catapult them into contention at the top of the table, making this matchup one to watch for fans from all teams.

In another exciting clash, league leaders Aberdeen Lynx will face the Paisley Pirates. With the Lynx on a six-game winning streak and a dominant 9-1 win against the Pirates in their last encounter, the Pirates are seeking redemption. Expect a physical battle as the Lynx strive to maintain their winning form, while the Pirates aim to upset the league leaders.

Kilmarnock Thunder and North Ayrshire Wild will also go head-to-head on Saturday. Thunder started the season at the top of the league, but after suffering a few losses, now seeks to climb back up the leaderboard. With one win each in their previous encounters, this matchup promises intensity as both teams vie for crucial points.

On Saturday, the Edinburgh Capitals are set to compete against the Dundee Tigers. Both teams are currently tied at 10 points each, and interestingly, they haven’t faced each other in the ongoing season, injecting an air of unpredictability into the upcoming match. This marks the initial clash of two games scheduled for the Capitals and the Tigers this weekend, presenting a chance for them to secure up to 4 points. While their primary focus is on securing a victory, both teams will be mindful of the challenging game scheduled for the following day, emphasising the need to manage their energy wisely. As we’re aware, any team in the SNL possesses the capability to secure a triumph on any given night.

Picture by Derek Young Photography

Sunday Showdown:

On Sunday, the Kirkcaldy Kestrels and Edinburgh Capitals will face off in Fife. With both teams having games the previous night, fatigue will play a factor as they battle it out in a back-to-back clash. The Kestrels are eyeing a massive weekend, while the Capitals aim to showcase their season’s strength. It’s a true test of skill and determination, and hockey fans won’t want to miss the intense action on the ice.

Get ready for a rescheduled derby game between the Dundee Comets and Dundee Tigers, originally set for October. With a doubleheader for both teams, the outcome could significantly impact the standings. Expect a competitive match which carries importance beyond local rivalry, in a crucial weekend.

Hockey fans, buckle up for what is sure to be a rollercoaster of a weekend. Stay tuned for every thrilling moment!

Exciting Action and League Table Shifts

An exhilarating weekend with four league games. As the puck dropped and the goals flew, there was significant movement at the top of the table. Aberdeen Lynx claimed the top spot, pushing the Kirkcaldy Kestrels down to second, while the Paisley Pirates made a notable ascent to third. Let’s dive into the matchups that unfolded over the weekend.

Saturday:

Aberdeen Lynx 4 – Edinburgh Capitals 3:
The Linx Ice Arena was packed for a highly anticipated clash between the Aberdeen Lynx and the Edinburgh Capitals. The first period set the stage for a tightly contested game, with both teams having their share of opportunities. Three minutes into the second period, Lynx’s Kyle Ferguson scored a short-handed goal, setting the tone. Despite a valiant effort from the Capitals, Lynx’s Jordan Leyden and James Demo extended the lead. The Capitals fought back, with Chad Smith and Joel Gautschi narrowing the gap. All to play for in the final period with each side score a goal each, Capitals pulled their netminder but time ran out for them to score the equaliser.

Picture by Derek Young Photography

Kirkcaldy Kestrels 2 – Dundee Comets 4:
In a battle for supremacy, the league-leading Kirkcaldy Kestrels faced off against the Dundee Comets. The first period saw the Comets’ Sean Beattie capitalising on a power play. Although the Kestrels fought back with two goals in the second period, the Comets matched their efforts, entering the third period tied at 2-2. The Comets stepped up their game, netting two more goals, including Sean Beattie’s second in the closing seconds, securing a crucial victory.

North Ayr Wild 2 – Dundee Tigers 3:
All of the Saturday’s matchups were closely contested, with none more intense than the clash between the North Ayrshire Wild and the Dundee Tigers. In the first period, the Tigers applied significant pressure on the Wild’s defense, but goaltender Liam Griffin stood tall in the net. As both teams remained scoreless heading into the second period, the Tigers broke the deadlock with a power-play goal. The Wild quickly responded, with Dylan Murray netting the equaliser. Harvey Topen secured the Tigers’ second goal, only to have Dylan Murray of the Wild counter with his second of the night. A last second goal from Tigers game them a lead going into the final period, both teams battled fiercely, but neither managed to find the back of the net. The Tigers claimed the victory, earning two points and propelling them to the 5th position in the league table.

Picture: Al Goold (www.algooldphoto.com) Twitter: @AlGooldPhoto Insta: @Clanphotos


Sunday:

Paisley Pirates 7 – Kilmarnock Thunder 3:
The Braehead arena hosted an intense matchup between Paisley Pirates and Kilmarnock Thunder. In the initial period, only Thunder managed to score. The second period saw a rapid turnaround as the Pirates netted two goals in quick succession. Tom McGuiness of the Thunder responded with a power play goal at the 33rd minute, leveling the scoreboard before Marty Simpson secured another goal for the Pirates. The final period showcased the Pirates stepping up their game, adding four more goals, with Chris Wilson contributing two of them. With this victory, the Pirates now stand at 11 points, trailing the Kestrels by just one point.

The weekend’s games not only provided fans with some thrilling moments but also reshaped the league standings. As teams jockey for position, the Scottish Ice Hockey season promises more excitement and fierce competition in the coming weeks.

Scottish National League (SNL)

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Weekend Preview: Scottish National League (SNL)

Saturday:

Aberdeen Lynx vs. Edinburgh Capitals:
This weekend, the Aberdeen Lynx and the Edinburgh Capitals are set to clash in what promises to be an exhilarating encounter. The teams, currently holding 2nd and 3rd place respectively, have a history of intense battles, including last season’s title-deciding match. With the Lynx securing victories in their last five games and the Capitals on a two-game winning streak, both squads are in top form. The sold-out Aberdeen Linx Ice Arena showcases the high anticipation for this clash, and fans can expect a fiercely contested game between two of SNL’s most followed teams.

Kirkcaldy Kestrels vs. Dundee Comets:
League leaders Kirkcaldy Kestrels are gearing up for a challenging game against the Dundee Comets. The Comets, currently in 7th place, face a tough test against the Kestrels, who boast an impressive 12 points. Although the Comets have shown resilience, as seen in their close match against the Capitals last weekend, they will need to bring their A game to compete with the league leaders on their home ice.

North Ayrshire Wild vs Dundee Tigers:
The North Ayrshire Wild are looking to avenge their earlier defeat as they face off against the Dundee Tigers. In their previous encounter, the Tigers secured a 6-2 victory. With the Wild positioned in 8th place with 2 points and the Tigers in 6th with 8 points, both teams are eager to secure a crucial win. The Wild will rely on home advantage to turn the tables.

Sunday:

Paisley Pirates vs. Kilmarnock Thunder:
On Sunday, the Paisley Pirates and Kilmarnock Thunder will face off in a closely contested match. Both teams have won four out of seven league games this season, and with the Pirates currently holding a slight edge in the standings, this game is crucial for both sides. The previous encounter in October ended with a narrow 9-7 victory for the Pirates at The Galleon Centre, setting the stage for another thrilling showdown as the Thunder seeks redemption.

As the weekend unfolds, Scottish ice hockey fans are in for a treat with a lineup of competitive matchups. The passion and excitement of SNL hockey are set to captivate fans across the league.

Weekend Roundup of SNL Action

Kirkcaldy Kestrels 8 – 4 Dundee Tigers

On a chilly Saturday, the Dundee Tigers embarked on the short journey to Fife to face off against the league leaders, the Kirkcaldy Kestrels. The Kestrels wasted no time and came out strong with an opening goal from Allan Anderson. Taking advantage of a power play, Scott Jamison found the back of the net, giving the home side an early lead. Tigers’ Captain Paul Gallagher managed to score on the power play at the 15-minute mark, and in the last few seconds of the first period, they scored the equaliser, making it 2-2.

The second period saw the Kestrels taking the lead again, but it wasn’t long before the Tigers fought back to level the score. However, the Kestrels’ Andrew Finlay bagged another goal, giving the Kestrels a one-goal lead going into the final period. The Kestrels shifted into a higher gear, scoring twice in quick succession. Although the Tigers managed a power play goal, the Kestrels netted two more in the final minutes of the game. With a final score of 8-4, the Kestrels secured the two points and maintained their position at the top of the SNL table.

North Ayr Wild 5 – 9 Edinburgh Capitals

The North Ayr Wild hosted the Edinburgh Capitals on Saturday, setting the stage for a challenging match for the young Wild side against the well-drilled Edinburgh team. Caps’ Aaron Robertson opened the scoring, followed by a goal from the Wild’s Flynn Massie. Just a minute later, Aaron Robertson struck again. In the second period, the Caps extended their lead by netting four more goals, but the Wild were not far behind, adding two of their own. The game entered the final period with a score of 6-3 in favour of the Capitals. Joe Lynch scored a power play goal for the Wild, but Wild’s Dean Murray notched his second goal of the evening just moments later. The Capitals managed to net two more, and even though the Wild scored a goal in the last few seconds, it wasn’t enough to close the gap. The Capitals are now in third place on the table with 10 points.

Sunday:

Aberdeen Lynx 9 – 1 Paisley Pirates

On Sunday, the Aberdeen Lynx faced off against the Paisley Pirates. Despite missing some players due to injuries, the Aberdeen side continued their winning streak with a comfortable 9-1 victory. In the first period, the Lynx scored twice, and in the second period, they found the back of the net five more times, with Lynx Captain and Coach Jordan Leyden scoring four out of the six goals. Less than two minutes into the final period, Lynx’s Jame Demeo netted another goal. The Pirates’ Captain managed to score the only goal for his team before the Lynx added another. The Lynx maintain their position in second place in the table on 12 points, having won 6 out of 8 games. Both the Lynx and the Kestrels have 12 points, but the Kestrels are ahead due to goal difference.

As the weekend’s action concludes, the Scottish ice hockey league remains highly competitive, with the Kirkcaldy Kestrels maintaining their lead, closely followed by the Aberdeen Lynx and the Edinburgh Capitals in 3rd position. Fans can look forward to more thrilling matchups in the weeks to come.

Scottish National League (SNL)

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Weekend Preview

Get ready for an action-packed weekend in Scottish ice hockey as the SNL heats up with three matchups. The league standings are tight, and every team is hungry for those crucial points.

First up, the Dundee Tigers will clash with the Kirkcaldy Kestrels. Although the Kestrels are currently perched at the top of the table, the Tigers are nipping at their heels just 2 points behind. With the Kestrels having claimed victories in their previous encounters, the Tigers are eager to turn the tide and maintain their recent winning streak. It won’t be an easy task, though, as the Kestrels are a well-drilled force, especially on their home ice.

Next, the Edinburgh Capitals are set to journey west to face off against the North Ayrshire Wild. The Capitals secured a 6-3 win in their last meeting, and sitting just 2 points behind the league leaders, they’re eyeing those valuable points to challenge for the top spot. Meanwhile, the Wild, having played 11 games, are well aware of the importance of every point to stay in the competitive mix.

On Sunday, the Aberdeen Lynx will take on the Paisley Pirates in a clash that promises excitement. The Pirates, just 1 point behind the Lynx and sitting in 3rd place, have been in good form this season. The Lynx, riding a wave of momentum with four consecutive victories, are aiming to challenge the Kestrels for the top spot. Expect a fierce battle on the ice as both teams vie for the win.

Don’t miss out on all the SNL action this weekend. With every point counting in this closely contested league, these matchups are sure to deliver thrills, spills, and some memorable moments. Grab your tickets or keep your eyes on the socials for a weekend of hockey excitement!

Weekend Roundup: Scottish Ice Hockey Action

Picture by Mark Brown

This past weekend in Scottish Ice Hockey witnessed four exciting SNL games that further tightened the grip on the league table as well as a touching tribute to the late Adam Johnson. Before each game, players and fans observed a moment of silence followed by a heartwarming round of applause at the 47th minute.

Edinburgh Capitals 3 – Dundee Comets 2

Dundee Comets faced off against the Edinburgh Capitals in a highly competitive match at Murrayfield. The Comets started strong, with Jay Herd scoring just 42 seconds into the first period. Teammate Darren Donaldson added a power-play goal, giving the Comets a 2-0 lead. However, the Capitals fought back in the second period, with Aaron Robertson breaking through Comets‘ defense. Despite their efforts, it was Comets leading 2-1 going into the final period. The Capitals refused to surrender and scored two late goals, including the game-winner just 5 seconds before the final whistle, much to the delight of their fans.

Picture by Richard Wiseman

Dundee Tigers 6 – North Ayrshire Wild 2

Dundee Tigers hosted North Ayrshire Wild in a crucial double-point game. The Tigers came out firing on all cylinders, securing an early 3-0 lead. Although Dylan Murphy and Jacobs Woods managed to narrow the gap for the Wild, the Tigers extended their lead with goals from Michel Beca and Jack Henderson. The Tigers clinched the game 4-2, earning four valuable points and moving up the mid-table ranks.

Picture by RS Photography

Aberdeen Lynx 8 – Kilmarnock Thunder 3

Kilmarnock Thunder traveled to Linx Ice Arena to take on the Aberdeen Lynx. James Demeo opening the scoring for the home side with a crowd pleasing goal. Thunder, eager to replicate their previous victory against the Lynx, netted two goals leading 2-1 into the second period. However, the Lynx surged back with goals from Kyle Ferguson and captain Ben Edmonds. The Lynx extended their lead and the game saw some heated moments including Thunders‘ netminder Harry Cambell being sent off. Thunder then capitalised on a power play, with Innes Gallacher scoring his second goal of the game. The final period saw Thunder net another, but the Lynx responded with three additional goals, securing a comfortable win.

Picture by Derek Young Photography

Kirkcaldy Kestrels 1 – Paisley Pirates 2

The league-leading Kirkcaldy Kestrels faced off against the Paisley Pirates on Sunday. The game was closely contested, with Kestrels scoring the opening goal. The second period saw the Pirates find their rhythm, with goals from Alex Lane and Marcus Murdoch. Despite a hard-fought third period, neither team could find the back of the net. The Paisley Pirates claimed victory and two crucial points, while the Kestrels retained their top spot with 10 points.

With only 2 points separating 6th place from 1st place in the league table, all eyes are on the upcoming weekend games in the SNL. Stay tuned for more thrilling action on the ice!

Scottish National League (SNL)

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SNL Weekend Preview

It’s been a sombre week for Ice Hockey with the tragic passing of Nottingham Panthers #47 Adam Johnson. As teams return to the ice for this weekend’s SNL action, the thoughts of the entire hockey community are with all of those who have been affected by this devastating loss. At all SNL games this weekend, teams will pay tribute with all players and officials in a circle at centre ice for one minutes silence. Fans attending games are also invited to stand and applaud for one minute at 47 minutes whilst the games are in play. Junior and Recreational teams will also be able to pay tribute with a one minute silence at the start of their games. The Ice Hockey community is strong and we stand together and pay tribute to Adam Johnson #47.

SNL Fixtures

SATURDAY:

Dundee Tigers vs. North Ayr Wild: In a double-point game that could make a significant difference to both teams, the North Ayr Wild, currently in 8th place with 2 points, face off against the Dundee Tigers, who sit in 7th place with 4 points. The four points up for grabs could propel either team up the league table, so the stakes are high. It’s their first meeting this season, so each team will be keen to assert their dominance on the ice.

Edinburgh Capitals vs. Dundee Comets: Both the Edinburgh Capitals and Dundee Comets are currently sitting on 6 points. Although they haven’t crossed paths this season, in the past, they’ve been strong contenders at the top of the league. The Capitals have only played 4 games this season, winning 3 out of 4, while the Comets have played 6 matches, with a 50% win rate. With both teams always bring their A-game, this matchup is not to be missed as the atmosphere at Murrayfield is sure to be electric.

Picture by Gordon Fowley

Aberdeen Lynx vs. Kilmarnock Thunder: There are only a few tickets left for this highly anticipated game in Aberdeen. Kilmarnock Thunder currently stands 2nd in the league table, while the Lynx are in 3rd place. Both teams have accumulated 8 points from 6 games, and each winning 4 out of their 6 games, making this an incredibly tight race. Their first meeting of the season in Kilmarnock saw Thunder narrowly edging out the Lynx with a 10-9 victory on home ice. The rematch promises to be intense in the packed out Linx arena.

Sunday:

Kirkcaldy Kestrels vs. Paisley Pirates: The league leaders, Kirkcaldy Kestrels, will play host to the Paisley Pirates on home ice at the Fife Arena. The Kestrels currently lead the league with 10 points, holding a 3-point advantage over the Pirates. With the Aberdeen Lynx and Kilmarnock Thunder hot on the Kestrels’ heels, a win would provide some breathing space, but a Pirates victory could propel them up the league table. This is the first meeting of the season between these two competitive teams, and fans can expect a physical game.

As the Scottish ice hockey community unites in remembrance and solidarity, these weekend games promise both intense competition and a fitting tribute to Adam Johnston. May the spirit of the sport shine brightly, even in these difficult times.

Scottish National League (SNL)

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Player Safety Review and Action plan

Letter to all member clubs across Scottish Ice hockey.

REF: Player Safety Review and Action Plan in response to the tragic passing of Nottingham Panthers player #47 Adam Johnson, after an on ice incident. 

Dear Members, 

It is without question an extremely sad moment in time for our sport across the world and a stark reminder of our, and your duties as custodians of the sport. Like all sports, “it is only sport”, and the safety of our players must be our first priority. We have an absolute duty to do everything within our power to prevent a tragic accident like this from ever happening in our sport again. 

With this in mind, and the need for short, medium and long term action, Scottish Ice Hockey have made the decision to carry out the following steps: 

1. SHORT TERM (Immediate): Scottish Ice Hockey make a “strong recommendation” that all players at all levels across Scottish Ice Hockey use an approved Ice Hockey Neck Guard/Protector whilst participating in all on ice activities. (This “strong recommendation” is in place until 31 December 2023, after which it will become a mandatory requirement. It is not mandatory with immediate effect due to anticipated supply issues. This will be under constant review between now and mandatory implementation.) All protective equipment must be worn without alterations and as directed by the manufacturers’ specification. 

2. MEDIUM TERM (Within 12 Months): Scottish Ice Hockey, in consultation with relevant stakeholders, will conduct a Player Safety Equipment thorough review considering all aspects of player safety equipment including, but not limited to, the use of helmets, mouthguards/gumshields and facial protection, and the application of IIHF rules. 

3. LONG TERM (Ongoing): Scottish Ice Hockey will provide its membership with clear guidance on the ongoing and continuous improvement of Player Safety and their duties within this area. This will include the requirement for all clubs to be able to demonstrate that they proactively manage Player Safety within their organisations. 

It is unacceptable that any player loses their life playing our sport and it is incumbent upon us to do all we can to prevent a repeat of this tragic accident, but also to prevent other foreseeable incidents in the future. We have a legal and moral duty to respond in a measured and practical way. It is highly possible that other reviews will take place at an international level and Scottish Ice Hockey will participate proactively in this process. 

Yours faithfully 

JOHN COLLEY – CHAIRMAN 

Statement: Adam Johnson, 1994-2023

Scottish Ice Hockey is devastated to hear of the passing of Nottingham Panthers player Adam Johnson.

Scottish Ice Hockey sends its heartfelt condolences to Adam’s family and friends as well as the Nottingham Panthers community and those involved in the accident at this sad and difficult time.

John Colley, Chair of the Scottish Ice Hockey, commented, “The whole of Scottish Ice Hockey is heartbroken and deeply saddened by Adam’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Adam’s family, friends and ice hockey family at this difficult time.”

We join the ice hockey family in asking that the privacy of Adam’s family, friends and everyone at Nottingham Panthers is respected as we learn to come to terms with our grief.

In the wake of the tragic events that transpired yesterday, Scottish Ice Hockey made the decision to proceed with the scheduled games for this weekend. However, in cases where clubs find it challenging to continue with their matches, we strongly advise them to reach out to their respective section’s Rep. Any requests for postponement will be granted with the consent of both participating clubs.

Furthermore, all games will observe a one-minute silence as a moment of reflection and respect.

The following help and support is available for those who may need it: