The excitement is palpable as the Scottish National League (SNL) gears up for the start of the 2024-25 season this Saturday. There are seven teams competing, each team will play two home and two away games, setting the stage for intense competition and thrilling matchups. The season promises to deliver high-octane hockey, culminating in the much-anticipated Playoffs where the top teams will battle for the ultimate prize.
This season brings a fresh face to the league with the introduction of the Dundee Rockets, a newly formed team that replaces the Dundee Comets and Dundee Tigers. The Rockets are already generating buzz, especially with the addition of some key players. Fans are eager to see how this newly amalgamated squad will fare against seasoned rivals.
Season Expectations
Last season’s competition was fierce, with the title race going down to the wire. As a result, anticipation is at an all-time high as we head into the new season. All eyes will be on the opening games this weekend, with roster changes and new signings could have a significant impact on the league standings. The journey through the regular season will be thrilling, but all teams will have their sights set on the playoffs, where the intensity will reach its peak.
SNL Opening Weekend: Key Matches
Aberdeen Lynx vs. Kirkcaldy Kestrels
Saturday night sees a clash between last year’s SNL champions, Aberdeen Lynx, and the always formidable Kirkcaldy Kestrels. The Lynx finished the 2023-24 season at the top of the table with 43 points, well ahead of the Kestrels, who secured 29 points. However, the Kestrels, with their disciplined and well-drilled approach, are not to be underestimated.
Aberdeen has made some notable changes this season, most significantly in goal. Dominique Jaglar, who spent part of last season in Finland and part here playing for the Dundee Tigers, steps in between the pipes, replacing Dale Shearer, who has signed to the Dundee Rockets. Jaglar, one of three Scottish players on a two-way deal with the Dundee Stars in the Elite League, will be a key player to watch. The Lynx have already shown their strength in pre-season, securing a 4-1 victory against the Kestrels.
The Kirkcaldy Kestrels bring their own strengths to the table. Their junior development pathway is in full flow and they are introducing some home grown, promising young talent to the SNL this season. They’ve also secured Andy Little, an Elite goalie from Fife Flyers who came through their Scotland ranks, to bolster their defence.
Kilmarnock Thunder vs. North Ayrshire Wild
The second matchup of the weekend features Kilmarnock Thunder taking on North Ayrshire Wild. Last season, Thunder finished third in the league and were strong contenders for silverware. This year, they’ve added Alan Maitland, a prolific goal scorer returning to the sport after a hiatus, which could make Thunder an even more formidable opponent.
North Ayrshire Wild is a team with a young and dynamic roster. This season, they’ve added 21-year-old forward Haydn Woods and 15-year-old Rocco Murray, both of whom are expected to bring energy and skill to the ice. The Wild, known for their tenacity and youthful vigor, will be eager to make a statement early in the season.
The Season Ahead
With new teams, fresh talent, and high expectations, the 2024-25 Scottish National League season promises to be one of the most exciting yet. As the teams take to the ice this weekend, fans across Scotland will be watching closely, eager to see how the changes and new signings will shape the season. The regular season will be a rollercoaster, with every game bringing us closer to the playoffs, where the best of the best will clash in a final bid for glory. Get ready for another thrilling chapter in Scottish ice hockey!
