What's the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear the words Saudi Arabia, Abu Dhabi, or the Middle East? Oil, sand dunes, blistering heat, or something other than this. But Ice Hockey? That's the last thing that will come across anyone's mind. Yet, over the past two decades, the sport has quietly established itself across the region, with national teams, international tournaments, and growing grassroots participation creating a surprising hockey movement. From the UAE to Lebanon, countries are investing in ice rinks, youth development programs, and competitive leagues. What was once considered impossible in one of the world's hottest regions is steadily becoming a sporting success story.<h2>The origins of ice hockey in the Middle East</h2><h3>UAE leads the way</h3>The United Arab Emirates became the region's ice hockey pioneer in the early 2000s. The development of indoor ice rinks in Dubai and Abu Dhabi provided the foundation for amateur leagues and national-level competition. The UAE Ice Hockey Association soon started organising international events and fostering local talent, helping position the country as the regional leader in the sport.&nbsp;Key statistics<ul><li>The UAE National Ice Hockey Team gained official recognition from the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) in 2001.</li><li>The country currently operates four indoor ice rinks, including Dubai Ice Rink and Zayed Sports City Ice Rink in Abu Dhabi.</li><li>The Arab Cup for Ice Hockey, launched in 2008, united teams from Lebanon, Egypt, Kuwait, and the UAE, significantly boosting regional awareness.</li></ul><h3>Lebanon's growing hockey culture</h3>Despite lacking natural ice conditions, Lebanon has embraced hockey through its strong expatriate connections and winter sports culture. Lebanese players, many with ties to Canada and the United States, helped establish leagues and national team structures. The Lebanese National Ice Hockey Team continues to pursue greater international recognition, while plans for new training facilities aim to support future growth.<h3>Regional expansion continues</h3>Other nations, including Kuwait, Qatar, Egypt, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, have also entered the hockey landscape. Much of this growth has been driven by expatriate communities, corporate sponsors, and sports organizations eager to diversify athletic opportunities in the region.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-vaibhav-sooryavanshi-planned-his-historic-776-run-ipl-season-months-in-advance-1780384799933">How Vaibhav Sooryavanshi planned his historic 776-run IPL season months in advance</a><h2>Why is ice hockey growing?</h2><h3>Modern indoor facilities</h3>Advanced climate-controlled arenas have made year-round hockey possible, eliminating the challenges posed by the region's extreme temperatures. Shopping malls, sports complexes, and entertainment centers have become home to thriving hockey communities.<h3>Expat communities drive demand</h3>Large populations of Canadian, Russian, Swedish, and European professionals living in cities such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha have played a major role in developing local leagues and promoting the sport.<h3>International support</h3>The IIHF has actively supported hockey development in emerging markets through funding, coaching programs, and tournament opportunities.Global expansion efforts<ul><li>The IIHF's "Grow the Game" Initiative has invested approximately $1.2 million in hockey development programs across non-traditional hockey markets, including the Middle East.</li><li>Dubai has hosted the Challenge Cup of Asia, featuring teams from the UAE, Kuwait, Oman, and other developing hockey nations.</li></ul><h3>Youth development programs</h3>The future of hockey in the region depends heavily on grassroots participation. Youth leagues and academy programs in the UAE are creating opportunities for local athletes to learn and compete in the sport.Grassroots progress<ul><li>More than 300 youth players are currently enrolled in UAE hockey development programs.</li><li>Lebanon's hockey federation continues scouting local talent to strengthen its junior pathway system.</li></ul><h2>Challenges facing regional hockey</h2><h3>High operating costs</h3>Maintaining ice surfaces in desert climates requires significant energy and operational expenses, making rink management considerably more costly than in traditional hockey nations.<h3>Cultural awareness</h3>Football, basketball, and combat sports remain dominant throughout the region. Hockey organizations must continue educating audiences and attracting new fans to sustain growth.<h3>Developing local talent</h3>Many players competing in Middle Eastern leagues are expatriates or foreign-born athletes. Federations are now focused on nurturing homegrown players who can represent their countries internationally.<h2>A major milestone for the UAE</h2>The UAE secured the right to host the 2027 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship Division II, Group A, after winning a vote at the International Ice Hockey Federation's Annual Congress in Zurich, Switzerland. The UAE bid received 14 votes, surpassing Croatia's 11 votes and reinforcing international confidence in the country's ability to organise world-class sporting events. The UAE Winter Sports Federation delegation participated in the congress meetings, led by Hamel Ahmed Al Qubaisi, Vice President of the Federation, alongside Secretary General Jumaa Al Dhaheri and Technical Director Mohamad Aref Aljachi.The delegation presented the hosting proposal, outlining the championship's organizational, technical, and operational framework.<h2>What's next?</h2>Ice hockey's rise in the Middle East demonstrates how determination, investment, and innovation can overcome even the most challenging environments. With expanding infrastructure, growing youth participation, and increasing international recognition, the region is emerging as one of hockey's most unexpected growth markets.&nbsp;The UAE's successful bid to host the 2027 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship Division II, Group A, marks another significant step forward. As more nations embrace the sport and local talent continues to develop, the Middle East's hockey story is only just beginning. What once seemed impossible in the desert is now becoming a lasting sporting legacy.

Ice hockey is gaining momentum across the Middle East. Discover how the UAE secured hosting rights for the 2027 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship Division II Group A and why hockey is becoming one of the region's fastest-growing sports

What's the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear the words Saudi Arabia, Abu Dhabi, or the Middle East? Oil, sand dunes, blistering heat, or something other than this. But Ice Hockey? That's the last thing that will come across anyone's mind. Yet, over the past two decades, the sport has quietly established itself across the region, with national teams, international tournaments, and growing grassroots participation creating a surprising hockey movement. From the UAE to Lebanon, countries are investing in ice rinks, youth development programs, and competitive leagues. What was once considered impossible in one of the world's hottest regions is steadily becoming a sporting success story. The origins of ice hockey in the Middle East UAE leads the way The United Arab Emirates became the region's ice hockey pioneer in the early 2000s. The development of indoor ice rinks in Dubai and Abu Dhabi provided the foundation for amateur leagues and national-level competition. The UAE Ice Hockey Association soon started organising international events and fostering local talent, helping position the country as the regional leader in the sport. Key statistics The UAE National Ice Hockey Team gained official recognition from the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) in 2001. The country currently operates four indoor ice rinks, including Dubai Ice Rink and Zayed Sports City Ice Rink in Abu Dhabi. The Arab Cup for Ice Hockey, launched in 2008, united teams from Lebanon, Egypt, Kuwait, and the UAE, significantly boosting regional awareness. Lebanon's growing hockey culture Despite lacking natural ice conditions, Lebanon has embraced hockey through its strong expatriate connections and winter sports culture. Lebanese players, many with ties to Canada and the United States, helped establish leagues and national team structures. The Lebanese National Ice Hockey Team continues to pursue greater international recognition, while plans for new training facilities aim to support future growth. Regional expansion continues Other nations, including Kuwait, Qatar, Egypt, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, have also entered the hockey landscape. Much of this growth has been driven by expatriate communities, corporate sponsors, and sports organizations eager to diversify athletic opportunities in the region. Also Read: How Vaibhav Sooryavanshi planned his historic 776-run IPL season months in advance Why is ice hockey growing? Modern indoor facilities Advanced climate-controlled arenas have made year-round hockey possible, eliminating the challenges posed by the region's extreme temperatures. Shopping malls, sports complexes, and entertainment centers have become home to thriving hockey communities. Expat communities drive demand Large populations of Canadian, Russian, Swedish, and European professionals living in cities such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha have played a major role in developing local leagues and promoting the sport. International support The IIHF has actively supported hockey development in emerging markets through funding, coaching programs, and tournament opportunities. Global expansion efforts The IIHF's "Grow the Game" Initiative has invested approximately $1.2 million in hockey development programs across non-traditional hockey markets, including the Middle East. Dubai has hosted the Challenge Cup of Asia, featuring teams from the UAE, Kuwait, Oman, and other developing hockey nations. Youth development programs The future of hockey in the region depends heavily on grassroots participation. Youth leagues and academy programs in the UAE are creating opportunities for local athletes to learn and compete in the sport. Grassroots progress More than 300 youth players are currently enrolled in UAE hockey development programs. Lebanon's hockey federation continues scouting local talent to strengthen its junior pathway system. Challenges facing regional hockey High operating costs Maintaining ice surfaces in desert climates requires significant energy and operational expenses, making rink management considerably more costly than in traditional hockey nations. Cultural awareness Football, basketball, and combat sports remain dominant throughout the region. Hockey organizations must continue educating audiences and attracting new fans to sustain growth. Developing local talent Many players competing in Middle Eastern leagues are expatriates or foreign-born athletes. Federations are now focused on nurturing homegrown players who can represent their countries internationally. A major milestone for the UAE The UAE secured the right to host the 2027 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship Division II, Group A, after winning a vote at the International Ice Hockey Federation's Annual Congress in Zurich, Switzerland. The UAE bid received 14 votes, surpassing Croatia's 11 votes and reinforcing international confidence in the country's ability to organise world-class sporting events. The UAE Winter Sports Federation delegation participated in the congress meetings, led by Hamel Ahmed Al Qubaisi, Vice President of the Federation, alongside Secretary General Jumaa Al Dhaheri and Technical Director Mohamad Aref Aljachi. The delegation presented the hosting proposal, outlining the championship's organizational, technical, and operational framework. What's next? Ice hockey's rise in the Middle East demonstrates how determination, investment, and innovation can overcome even the most challenging environments. With expanding infrastructure, growing youth participation, and increasing international recognition, the region is emerging as one of hockey's most unexpected growth markets. The UAE's successful bid to host the 2027 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship Division II, Group A, marks another significant step forward. As more nations embrace the sport and local talent continues to develop, the Middle East's hockey story is only just beginning. What once seemed impossible in the desert is now becoming a lasting sporting legacy.

Ice hockey is rapidly growing across the Middle East region, with the UAE leading regional expansion and securing the 2027 IIHF Division II Group A Championship

Ice hockey in the desert? UAE stuns the world by winning rights to host 2027 IIHF Championship

The Spiti Cup is set to return for its third season from February 7 - 11, 2026, reaffirming its role as a cornerstone grassroots winter sports initiative in the Himalayas. Held during the region’s harsh winter, the tournament brings together remote villages, transforming frozen landscapes into shared arenas of participation, pride, and collective resilience. With Ice hockey gaining momentum across Spiti and neighbouring valleys, the 2026 edition marks a significant step forward in scale and structure. The tournament expands to 22 games, up from 18 last season, featuring teams from five zones — Centre, Tod, Sham, Pin, and Lahaul—across Senior Men, Women, and U-18 Boys categories. Organised in collaboration with the Ice Hockey Association of Lahaul and Spiti (IHALS), supported by Royal Enfield Social Mission, and held in partnership with the Spiti Administration, the Spiti Cup functions as a community-owned developmental competition. Beyond the games, it brings together players, families, volunteers, and supporters, reinforcing unity and shared identity in one of the country’s most challenging environments. The 2026 edition will be played in a league format, with each team competing against every other team in its respective category. The team topping the points table at the end of the league stage will be crowned champion. The five-day tournament will feature 10 games in the Senior Men’s category and six games each in the Women’s and U-18 Boys categories.&nbsp;Marking a significant step in the tournament’s evolution, players from Lahaul &amp; Shimla will enter the Spiti Cup for the first time in the Senior Men’s category. A team from Sangla in Kinnaur Valley will also participate for the second consecutive year, underscoring sustained engagement from neighbouring regions beyond Spiti.&nbsp;At the grassroots level, the Spiti Cup is anchored in a strong community-based structure. The pathway begins with 12 village- and cluster-level clubs, where players train for nearly a month during winter. These clubs come together to form zonal teams that ultimately compete in Kaza.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a> The tournament also serves as the competitive culmination of a season-long capacity-building effort. In the lead-up to the Cup, coaches from across the region underwent holistic training led by international instructor Darryl Easson, focusing on technical skills, player development and game management. These coaches have since returned to their respective communities to scout talent, and prepare teams systematically.&nbsp;In the month preceding the tournament, over 500 children and youth participate in structured Ice hockey training across villages and zones. These sessions are led by locally based coaches trained through formal programmes, ensuring consistent high-quality instruction.&nbsp;Strengthening the ecosystem further, dedicated referee training initiatives have been conducted, focusing on rule interpretation, on-ice decision-making, and professional game management - helping build a sustainable pool of trained officials for the region.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;Alongside Ice hockey, Spiti Cup will once again feature Speed Skating competition, encouraging wider participation across Under-16, under-18, and senior categories. Notably, 7-10 skaters from Cheog (Shimla District) will also participate in Kaza, reflecting growing interest in winter sports across Himachal Pradesh.&nbsp;As the Spiti Cup enters its third season, it continues to strengthen the Ice hockey ecosystem in the Himalayas by investing in players, coaches, and officials alike, expanding access to competition, and building sustainable pathways for future talent.

At the grassroots level, the Spiti Cup is anchored in a strong community-based structure. The pathway begins with 12 village- and cluster-level clubs, where players train for nearly a month during winter. 

The Spiti Cup is set to return for its third season from February 7 - 11, 2026, reaffirming its role as a cornerstone grassroots winter sports initiative in the Himalayas. Held during the region’s harsh winter, the tournament brings together remote villages, transforming frozen landscapes into shared arenas of participation, pride, and collective resilience. With Ice hockey gaining momentum across Spiti and neighbouring valleys, the 2026 edition marks a significant step forward in scale and structure. The tournament expands to 22 games, up from 18 last season, featuring teams from five zones — Centre, Tod, Sham, Pin, and Lahaul—across Senior Men, Women, and U-18 Boys categories. Organised in collaboration with the Ice Hockey Association of Lahaul and Spiti (IHALS), supported by Royal Enfield Social Mission, and held in partnership with the Spiti Administration, the Spiti Cup functions as a community-owned developmental competition. Beyond the games, it brings together players, families, volunteers, and supporters, reinforcing unity and shared identity in one of the country’s most challenging environments. The 2026 edition will be played in a league format, with each team competing against every other team in its respective category. The team topping the points table at the end of the league stage will be crowned champion. The five-day tournament will feature 10 games in the Senior Men’s category and six games each in the Women’s and U-18 Boys categories. Marking a significant step in the tournament’s evolution, players from Lahaul & Shimla will enter the Spiti Cup for the first time in the Senior Men’s category. A team from Sangla in Kinnaur Valley will also participate for the second consecutive year, underscoring sustained engagement from neighbouring regions beyond Spiti. At the grassroots level, the Spiti Cup is anchored in a strong community-based structure. The pathway begins with 12 village- and cluster-level clubs, where players train for nearly a month during winter. These clubs come together to form zonal teams that ultimately compete in Kaza. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli The tournament also serves as the competitive culmination of a season-long capacity-building effort. In the lead-up to the Cup, coaches from across the region underwent holistic training led by international instructor Darryl Easson, focusing on technical skills, player development and game management. These coaches have since returned to their respective communities to scout talent, and prepare teams systematically. In the month preceding the tournament, over 500 children and youth participate in structured Ice hockey training across villages and zones. These sessions are led by locally based coaches trained through formal programmes, ensuring consistent high-quality instruction. Strengthening the ecosystem further, dedicated referee training initiatives have been conducted, focusing on rule interpretation, on-ice decision-making, and professional game management - helping build a sustainable pool of trained officials for the region. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds Alongside Ice hockey, Spiti Cup will once again feature Speed Skating competition, encouraging wider participation across Under-16, under-18, and senior categories. Notably, 7-10 skaters from Cheog (Shimla District) will also participate in Kaza, reflecting growing interest in winter sports across Himachal Pradesh. As the Spiti Cup enters its third season, it continues to strengthen the Ice hockey ecosystem in the Himalayas by investing in players, coaches, and officials alike, expanding access to competition, and building sustainable pathways for future talent.

At the grassroots level, the Spiti Cup is anchored in a strong community-based structure. The pathway begins with 12 village- and cluster-level clubs, where players train for nearly a month during winter.&nbsp;

Spiti Cup 2026 to kick start on Feb 7 with increased number of matches

Former head coach of Hungary and Great Britain Ice Hockey national team, Darryl Easson, has backed India’s potential to succeed in the sport as the build-up for the latest season of Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League begins. Easson, who is in India and leading the referee training programme organised by Royal Enfield, also stated that India can achieve success sooner rather than later with the World Championships. While speaking exclusively to WION, Easson also backed India for success in the winter Olympics, which remains a primary aim for the nation in ice hockey and winter sports.&nbsp;Question: Where do you see India in Ice Hockey coaching and referee training programs that have elevated the standards?India has great potential, and considering the response we have received, there is no doubt that it will succeed. We have got a great set of players coming through the ranks, especially from the Himalayan regions of Leh and Spiti. Yes, there are challenges, but India has the potential to play in the Ice Hockey World Championships in the next two to three years.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Question: What is the set of challenges you have come across while implementing the training program?Well, there were a lot of challenges in the first year; we had to start from scratch. But since last year, things have improved and we have got a good response. Royal Enfield has played a crucial role in establishing a link between the grassroots and international standards. Their support has helped us navigate a lot of problems. Now we have more people involved in the game, more stakeholders and therefore more attention.&nbsp;We have also addressed the issue of ice rings for practice and world-class infrastructure is already in place.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Question: India is targeting success at the 2042 Winter Olympics, is the nation on the right track with the coaching and referee training program?Definitely, India is already on the right track and is trying to get the best out of the players. The current set of players has already started working on minute aspects of the game, which is quite important. Players are showing signs of improvement day by day. If these standards are maintained with consistency along with improved results, it won’t be long before we see India succeeding at the Winter Olympics. &nbsp;

While speaking exclusively to WION, Darryl Easson also backed India for success in the winter Olympics, which remains a primary aim for the nation in ice hockey and winter sports.

Former head coach of Hungary and Great Britain Ice Hockey national team, Darryl Easson, has backed India’s potential to succeed in the sport as the build-up for the latest season of Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League begins. Easson, who is in India and leading the referee training programme organised by Royal Enfield, also stated that India can achieve success sooner rather than later with the World Championships. While speaking exclusively to WION, Easson also backed India for success in the winter Olympics, which remains a primary aim for the nation in ice hockey and winter sports. Question: Where do you see India in Ice Hockey coaching and referee training programs that have elevated the standards? India has great potential, and considering the response we have received, there is no doubt that it will succeed. We have got a great set of players coming through the ranks, especially from the Himalayan regions of Leh and Spiti. Yes, there are challenges, but India has the potential to play in the Ice Hockey World Championships in the next two to three years. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Question: What is the set of challenges you have come across while implementing the training program? Well, there were a lot of challenges in the first year; we had to start from scratch. But since last year, things have improved and we have got a good response. Royal Enfield has played a crucial role in establishing a link between the grassroots and international standards. Their support has helped us navigate a lot of problems. Now we have more people involved in the game, more stakeholders and therefore more attention. We have also addressed the issue of ice rings for practice and world-class infrastructure is already in place. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Question: India is targeting success at the 2042 Winter Olympics, is the nation on the right track with the coaching and referee training program? Definitely, India is already on the right track and is trying to get the best out of the players. The current set of players has already started working on minute aspects of the game, which is quite important. Players are showing signs of improvement day by day. If these standards are maintained with consistency along with improved results, it won’t be long before we see India succeeding at the Winter Olympics.

While speaking exclusively to WION, Darryl Easson also backed India for success in the winter Olympics, which remains a primary aim for the nation in ice hockey and winter sports.

Exclusive: Darryl Easson backs India for Ice Hockey World Championships, says 'India have the potential'

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/international-olympic-committee">International Olympic Committee</a> (IOC) has banned Russian teams from competing in the 2026 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/winter-olympics">Winter Olympics</a> set to be held in Milano-Cortina, Italy. This comes as a major setback for Russia, especially in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ice-hockey">ice hockey</a>, a game which they have dominated in recent editions of the Winter Games.&nbsp;Russia's ice hockey record in the past two Winter Olympics&nbsp;At the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/russia">Russia </a>claimed the gold medal in ice hockey after defeating Germany 4-3 in a thrilling final. Four years down in Beijing , they secured silver, narrowly losing 2-1 to Finland. Previously, in 1998 Nagano Winter games, Russia had clinched the gold medal followed with a third podium rank in the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics. These performances have established Russia as one of the leaders in the sport. However, their absence from the 2026 Games now marks a significant shift in the competition.&nbsp;The decision by the IOC follows sanctions imposed on the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) after Russia-Ukraine conflict which started in 2022. Despite recent reports suggesting that Russian hockey officials had discussed Olympic participation with the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF), the IOC clarified that its stance remains unchanged.&nbsp;Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-star-shuttler-kicks-singapore-open-2025-in-some-style-wins-first-game-in-31-minutes-sports-singapore-open-1748342934994">Singapore Open 2025: India's star shuttler PV Sindhu kicks off campaign in some style, wins first game in 31 minutes</a>&nbsp;“This position reflects the suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee because of its annexation of regional sports organisations on the territory of the National Olympic Committee of Ukraine," the IOC was quoted saying to news agency Reuters.&nbsp;It further explained that a group of individual neutral athletes cannot be considered a national team. The IIHF has confirmed it will stick to the IOC's guidelines.&nbsp;While a small number of Russian and Belarusian athletes competed at the Paris 2024 Olympics as neutrals, they had undergone strict screening and they were neither allowed to have their national flags nor the Russian national anthem was allowed to play. The same approach is expected for the Winter Games.&nbsp;Additionally, the IOC suspended the Russian Olympic Committee in October 2023 after the committee recognized Olympic bodies in four Ukrainian regions Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia currently under Russian control.&nbsp;This move was seen as a breach of the Olympic Charter, which respects the territorial integrity of national Olympic committees.&nbsp;As of now, only a handful of Russian athletes in individual sports like figure skating are being considered for neutral participation in 2026.

At the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, Russia claimed the gold medal in ice hockey after defeating Germany 4-3 in a thrilling final. Four years down in Beijing , they secured silver, narrowly losing 2-1 to Finland.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has banned Russian teams from competing in the 2026 Winter Olympics set to be held in Milano-Cortina, Italy. This comes as a major setback for Russia, especially in ice hockey, a game which they have dominated in recent editions of the Winter Games. Russia's ice hockey record in the past two Winter Olympics At the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, Russia claimed the gold medal in ice hockey after defeating Germany 4-3 in a thrilling final. Four years down in Beijing , they secured silver, narrowly losing 2-1 to Finland. Previously, in 1998 Nagano Winter games, Russia had clinched the gold medal followed with a third podium rank in the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics. These performances have established Russia as one of the leaders in the sport. However, their absence from the 2026 Games now marks a significant shift in the competition. The decision by the IOC follows sanctions imposed on the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) after Russia-Ukraine conflict which started in 2022. Despite recent reports suggesting that Russian hockey officials had discussed Olympic participation with the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF), the IOC clarified that its stance remains unchanged. Also Read | Singapore Open 2025: India's star shuttler PV Sindhu kicks off campaign in some style, wins first game in 31 minutes “This position reflects the suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee because of its annexation of regional sports organisations on the territory of the National Olympic Committee of Ukraine," the IOC was quoted saying to news agency Reuters. It further explained that a group of individual neutral athletes cannot be considered a national team. The IIHF has confirmed it will stick to the IOC's guidelines. While a small number of Russian and Belarusian athletes competed at the Paris 2024 Olympics as neutrals, they had undergone strict screening and they were neither allowed to have their national flags nor the Russian national anthem was allowed to play. The same approach is expected for the Winter Games. Additionally, the IOC suspended the Russian Olympic Committee in October 2023 after the committee recognized Olympic bodies in four Ukrainian regions Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia currently under Russian control. This move was seen as a breach of the Olympic Charter, which respects the territorial integrity of national Olympic committees. As of now, only a handful of Russian athletes in individual sports like figure skating are being considered for neutral participation in 2026.

At the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, Russia claimed the gold medal in ice hockey after defeating Germany 4-3 in a thrilling final. Four years down in Beijing , they secured silver, narrowly losing 2-1 to Finland.

In a blow to its ice hockey legacy, IOC bans Russia from 2026 Winter Olympics

This is about resilience, determination and sheer grit. The women ice hockey players of Iran are challenging the country's deeply conservative values, and skating towards their goals with courage and strength.

Women players cut path for ice hockey in Iran

New Delhi, India
The Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League 2025 is all set to kickstart in January 2025 as India’s Ladakh prepares for the big occasion in the new year. The training camp for coaches held from December 8 to 12 focused on training them, who will further train over 500 players for the 2025 Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League in Ladakh and the Spiti Cup. With the focus now shifting to the big event in 2025, WION exclusively caught up with Bidisha Dey, Executive Director, Eicher Group Foundation.
Speaking on the Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League, Bidisha opened up about how they are helping Ladakh transform not only into a center for winter sports but also boost tourism. She also reflected on how the Ice Hockey League was a grand success in 2024, with huge expectations for 2025. In an exclusive chat with WION’s Aditya Pimpale, Bidisha discussed the future of winter sports in the nation.
<h2>Insights on Ice Hockey League 2025</h2>
“As far as winter sports are concerned, particularly ice hockey, it started in a way where, when we were talking to the communities in Ladakh, we realised that sports are the most important thing. It is so, so close to their hearts. They have been playing ice hockey for years, you know, and without any tremendous infrastructure support or kind of a developed ecosystem. And the stories are full of resilience,” Bidisha added in the chat.
Shw also spoke about the role of Royal Enfield and its significant contribution to the development of the Himalayan regions.
“Royal Enfield owes its survival—it is the oldest motorcycle company in continuous production since 1901. And one of the reasons why it continued in India, even as the British chapter closed, is because the army in the higher-up regions in the Himalayas continued to ride it.
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“We regard the Himalayas as sacred and as a spiritual home. So it is but natural, I think, that when we looked at developing our social mission and we looked at working with the communities, in addition to what we do in our local area, in Tamil Nadu, etc., our, you know, big focus, 70% of our focus, is on the Himalayas and the Himalayan communities,” Bidisha explained.
The Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League is all set for its second season, with the kick-off scheduled for January 2025 in Ladakh. The jersey for the league was unveiled on Saturday (Dec 14) with a huge crowd present at Travancore Palace in New Delhi.

The Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League is all set for its second season, with the kick-off scheduled for January 2025 in Ladakh. The jersey for the league was unveiled on Saturday (Dec 14) with a huge crowd present at Travancore Palace in New Delhi.



New Delhi, India The Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League 2025 is all set to kickstart in January 2025 as India’s Ladakh prepares for the big occasion in the new year. The training camp for coaches held from December 8 to 12 focused on training them, who will further train over 500 players for the 2025 Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League in Ladakh and the Spiti Cup. With the focus now shifting to the big event in 2025, WION exclusively caught up with Bidisha Dey, Executive Director, Eicher Group Foundation. Speaking on the Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League, Bidisha opened up about how they are helping Ladakh transform not only into a center for winter sports but also boost tourism. She also reflected on how the Ice Hockey League was a grand success in 2024, with huge expectations for 2025. In an exclusive chat with WION’s Aditya Pimpale, Bidisha discussed the future of winter sports in the nation. Insights on Ice Hockey League 2025 “As far as winter sports are concerned, particularly ice hockey, it started in a way where, when we were talking to the communities in Ladakh, we realised that sports are the most important thing. It is so, so close to their hearts. They have been playing ice hockey for years, you know, and without any tremendous infrastructure support or kind of a developed ecosystem. And the stories are full of resilience,” Bidisha added in the chat. Shw also spoke about the role of Royal Enfield and its significant contribution to the development of the Himalayan regions. “Royal Enfield owes its survival—it is the oldest motorcycle company in continuous production since 1901. And one of the reasons why it continued in India, even as the British chapter closed, is because the army in the higher-up regions in the Himalayas continued to ride it. ALSO READ | BGT 2024/25: Nathan McSweeney axed from Boxing Day Test; Sam Konstas roped in for Australia “We regard the Himalayas as sacred and as a spiritual home. So it is but natural, I think, that when we looked at developing our social mission and we looked at working with the communities, in addition to what we do in our local area, in Tamil Nadu, etc., our, you know, big focus, 70% of our focus, is on the Himalayas and the Himalayan communities,” Bidisha explained. The Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League is all set for its second season, with the kick-off scheduled for January 2025 in Ladakh. The jersey for the league was unveiled on Saturday (Dec 14) with a huge crowd present at Travancore Palace in New Delhi.

Exclusive: Ice Hockey League set to rejuvenate Ladakh's sports culture and tourism

The Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League 2025 is all set to kickstart in January 2025 as India’s Ladakh prepares for the big occasion in the new year. The&nbsp;training camp for coaches&nbsp;held from December 8 to 12 focused on training them,&nbsp;who will further train over 500 players for the 2025 Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League in Ladakh and the Spiti Cup. With the focus now shifting to the big event in 2025, WION exclusively caught up with Bidisha Dey, Executive Director, Eicher Group Foundation.

Speaking on the Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League, Bidisha opened up about how they are helping Ladakh transform not only into a center for winter sports but also boost tourism. She also reflected on how the Ice Hockey League was a grand success in 2024, with huge expectations for 2025. In an exclusive chat with WION’s Aditya Pimpale, Bidisha&nbsp;discussed the future of winter sports in the nation.

<h2>Insights on Ice Hockey League 2025</h2>

“As far as winter sports are concerned, particularly ice hockey, it started in a way where, when we were talking to the communities in Ladakh, we realised that sports are the most important thing. It is so, so close to their hearts. They have been playing ice hockey for years, you know, and without any tremendous infrastructure support or kind of a developed ecosystem. And the stories are full of resilience,” Bidisha added in the chat.

Shw also spoke about the role of Royal Enfield and its significant contribution to the development of the Himalayan regions.

“Royal Enfield owes its survival—it is the oldest motorcycle company in continuous production since 1901. And one of the reasons why it continued in India, even as the British chapter closed, is because the army in the higher-up regions in the Himalayas continued to ride it.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-nathan-mcsweeney-likely-to-be-axed-from-boxing-day-test-sam-konstas-in-frame-for-australia-785445">BGT 2024/25: Nathan McSweeney axed from Boxing Day Test; Sam Konstas roped in for Australia</a>

“We regard the Himalayas as sacred and as a spiritual home. So it is but natural, I think, that when we looked at developing our social mission and we looked at working with the communities, in addition to what we do in our local area, in Tamil Nadu, etc., our, you know, big focus, 70% of our focus, is on the Himalayas and the Himalayan communities,” Bidisha explained.

The Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League is all set for its second season, with the kick-off scheduled for January 2025 in Ladakh. The jersey for the league was unveiled on Saturday (Dec 14) with a huge crowd present at Travancore Palace in New Delhi.

The Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League 2025 is all set to kickstart in January 2025 as India’s Ladakh prepares for the big occasion in the new year. The training camp for coaches held from December 8 to 12 focused on training them, who will further train over 500 players for the 2025 Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League in Ladakh and the Spiti Cup.

The Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League 2025 is all set to kickstart in January 2025 as India’s Ladakh prepares for the big occasion in the new year. The training camp for coaches held from December 8 to 12 focused on training them, who will further train over 500 players for the 2025 Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League in Ladakh and the Spiti Cup. With the focus now shifting to the big event in 2025, WION exclusively caught up with Bidisha Dey, Executive Director, Eicher Group Foundation. Speaking on the Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League, Bidisha opened up about how they are helping Ladakh transform not only into a center for winter sports but also boost tourism. She also reflected on how the Ice Hockey League was a grand success in 2024, with huge expectations for 2025. In an exclusive chat with WION’s Aditya Pimpale, Bidisha discussed the future of winter sports in the nation. Insights on Ice Hockey League 2025 “As far as winter sports are concerned, particularly ice hockey, it started in a way where, when we were talking to the communities in Ladakh, we realised that sports are the most important thing. It is so, so close to their hearts. They have been playing ice hockey for years, you know, and without any tremendous infrastructure support or kind of a developed ecosystem. And the stories are full of resilience,” Bidisha added in the chat. Shw also spoke about the role of Royal Enfield and its significant contribution to the development of the Himalayan regions. “Royal Enfield owes its survival—it is the oldest motorcycle company in continuous production since 1901. And one of the reasons why it continued in India, even as the British chapter closed, is because the army in the higher-up regions in the Himalayas continued to ride it. ALSO READ | BGT 2024/25: Nathan McSweeney axed from Boxing Day Test; Sam Konstas roped in for Australia “We regard the Himalayas as sacred and as a spiritual home. So it is but natural, I think, that when we looked at developing our social mission and we looked at working with the communities, in addition to what we do in our local area, in Tamil Nadu, etc., our, you know, big focus, 70% of our focus, is on the Himalayas and the Himalayan communities,” Bidisha explained. The Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League is all set for its second season, with the kick-off scheduled for January 2025 in Ladakh. The jersey for the league was unveiled on Saturday (Dec 14) with a huge crowd present at Travancore Palace in New Delhi.

As India continues to thrive in multiple sports, the nation is now taking a small but significant step into unknown territory as it prepares for the Winter Games. Still with work to do, Ladkah, a Union Territory in the Himalayan regions of the North, is the flag bearer for winter sports. With the upcoming 2025 Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League in site, WION exclusively caught up with Canada’s Darryl Easson, an experienced Ice hockey coach who has worked with teams including the United Kingdom and Hungary.

Darryl brings tons of experience to the table and will work closely with 32 coaches shortlisted from Ladakh, Lahaul, and Spiti for the Ice hockey coach training camp in Gurugram. In an exclusive chat with WION’s Aditya Pimpale, he spoke openly about how India can take the next step and prepare for winter sports.

Question: Why do you think India will be one of the major hubs, and why have you chosen the nation for Ice hockey coaching?

Answer: They've had Ice hockey here for a long time. It's about now making it better and helping them improve in the way they're actually going to develop with people wanting to push it forward a little bit too.

Question: You have been in India for quite a while now. Do you see any potential in the nation to push for glory in winter sports, particularly Ice hockey?

Answer: They're not just as good on the ice, but some are actually good at the sport off the ice. There are some very good hockey players and they on top of everything else are enthusiastic. They're involved in the sport. They wanna teach the sport so I think India can dream of glory if they come up with the right mentality, plan and practice.

We've had a lot that's happening now. We've got 6 or 8 people who are now turning and listening to what I'm saying, but also helping translate and try to help speak. So that's a great start that you've got people wanting to help each other to grow the sport.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kyle-walker-receives-racial-abuse-after-manchester-citys-champions-league-slump-calls-for-action-783619">Kyle Walker receives racial abuse after Manchester City’s Champions League slump, calls for action</a>

Question: How do you think is the infrastructure for Ice hockey in India, while we have good facilities for sports like cricket and others?

Answer: What do you need for a cricket field. A field in 4 pieces of wood and that's it. So, you know, I lived in lived in Zurich. There's an area in Zurich where we used to work at the international Ice hockey fair, and guys were playing cricket there all the time. That's all you need. It's a little bit more accessible than hockey where you need ice. So you get the ice, people will come, they'll skate, and they'll and they'll try and learn. So there is always room for improvement. So all need not be perfect with things slowly and gradually coming together.

The Royal Enfield Ice hockey coach training camp held from December 8 to 12 focused on the training of coaches as they will further train over 500 players for the 2025 Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League, Ladakh, and the Spiti Cup. ‘The Gamechanger’ was created and released by Royal Enfield in December 2023 in collaboration with local and international stakeholders which provided a Blueprint for Ice Hockey in India.

As India continues to thrive in multiple sports, the nation is now taking a small but significant step into unknown territory as it prepares for the Winter Games.

As India continues to thrive in multiple sports, the nation is now taking a small but significant step into unknown territory as it prepares for the Winter Games. Still with work to do, Ladkah, a Union Territory in the Himalayan regions of the North, is the flag bearer for winter sports. With the upcoming 2025 Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League in site, WION exclusively caught up with Canada’s Darryl Easson, an experienced Ice hockey coach who has worked with teams including the United Kingdom and Hungary. Darryl brings tons of experience to the table and will work closely with 32 coaches shortlisted from Ladakh, Lahaul, and Spiti for the Ice hockey coach training camp in Gurugram. In an exclusive chat with WION’s Aditya Pimpale, he spoke openly about how India can take the next step and prepare for winter sports. Question: Why do you think India will be one of the major hubs, and why have you chosen the nation for Ice hockey coaching? Answer: They've had Ice hockey here for a long time. It's about now making it better and helping them improve in the way they're actually going to develop with people wanting to push it forward a little bit too. Question: You have been in India for quite a while now. Do you see any potential in the nation to push for glory in winter sports, particularly Ice hockey? Answer: They're not just as good on the ice, but some are actually good at the sport off the ice. There are some very good hockey players and they on top of everything else are enthusiastic. They're involved in the sport. They wanna teach the sport so I think India can dream of glory if they come up with the right mentality, plan and practice. We've had a lot that's happening now. We've got 6 or 8 people who are now turning and listening to what I'm saying, but also helping translate and try to help speak. So that's a great start that you've got people wanting to help each other to grow the sport. ALSO READ | Kyle Walker receives racial abuse after Manchester City’s Champions League slump, calls for action Question: How do you think is the infrastructure for Ice hockey in India, while we have good facilities for sports like cricket and others? Answer: What do you need for a cricket field. A field in 4 pieces of wood and that's it. So, you know, I lived in lived in Zurich. There's an area in Zurich where we used to work at the international Ice hockey fair, and guys were playing cricket there all the time. That's all you need. It's a little bit more accessible than hockey where you need ice. So you get the ice, people will come, they'll skate, and they'll and they'll try and learn. So there is always room for improvement. So all need not be perfect with things slowly and gradually coming together. The Royal Enfield Ice hockey coach training camp held from December 8 to 12 focused on the training of coaches as they will further train over 500 players for the 2025 Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League, Ladakh, and the Spiti Cup. ‘The Gamechanger’ was created and released by Royal Enfield in December 2023 in collaboration with local and international stakeholders which provided a Blueprint for Ice Hockey in India.

Exclusive: International coach Darryl Easson backs India for winter sports ahead of Ice Hockey League

Former Belarus ice hockey player and tennis star Aryna Sabalenka's boyfriend Konstantin Koltsov has passed away. The news was confirmed by Russian ice hockey club Salavat Yulaev on their website where Koltsov served as the coach.

Writing about the demise, the club wrote (translated from Google): "It is with deep sorrow that we inform you that Salavat Yulaev coach Konstantin Koltsov has passed away. He was a strong and cheerful person, he was loved and respected by players, colleagues, and fans. Konstantin Evgenievich forever wrote himself into the history of our club. Koltsov won the Russian Championship and the Gagarin Cup as part of Salavat Yulaev, and did a great job on the team’s coaching staff.

"The hockey club 'Salavat Yulaev'&nbsp;expresses its condolences to the family and friends of Konstantin Evgenievich Koltsov."

The 42-year-old had played in the Belarus national team in the 2002 and 2010 Olympics and was also a part of the USA-based National Hockey League (NHL) for Pittsburgh Penguins from 2002 to 2006.

Renowned for his speed on the ice, Koltsov won the Russian Super League title with Salavat Yulaev in 2008 and more recently returned to the club as an assistant coach.

Sabalenka and Koltsov were first linked in June 2021, according to People magazine, and the world number two has frequently posted photos of them together on her Instagram account.

"I love you @koltsov2021," she wrote in one post that included heart and other emojis.

"Happy birthday my love. You are my dearest person, my best friend and my strongest support. Peace be with you, strength, patience and health.

"I hope we will have everything we planned I love you."

Koltsov also applauded Sabalenka after the Belarusian won her second consecutive Australian Open title in January.

Sabalenka lost in the last 16 at Indian Wells last week and is scheduled to play her first match at the Miami Open on Friday.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Belarus ice hockey player and tennis star Aryna Sabalenka's boyfriend Konstantin Koltsov has passed away. The news was confirmed by Russian ice hockey club Salavat Yulaev on their website where Koltsov served as the coach.

Former Belarus ice hockey player and tennis star Aryna Sabalenka's boyfriend Konstantin Koltsov has passed away. The news was confirmed by Russian ice hockey club Salavat Yulaev on their website where Koltsov served as the coach. Writing about the demise, the club wrote (translated from Google): "It is with deep sorrow that we inform you that Salavat Yulaev coach Konstantin Koltsov has passed away. He was a strong and cheerful person, he was loved and respected by players, colleagues, and fans. Konstantin Evgenievich forever wrote himself into the history of our club. Koltsov won the Russian Championship and the Gagarin Cup as part of Salavat Yulaev, and did a great job on the team’s coaching staff. "The hockey club 'Salavat Yulaev' expresses its condolences to the family and friends of Konstantin Evgenievich Koltsov." The 42-year-old had played in the Belarus national team in the 2002 and 2010 Olympics and was also a part of the USA-based National Hockey League (NHL) for Pittsburgh Penguins from 2002 to 2006. Renowned for his speed on the ice, Koltsov won the Russian Super League title with Salavat Yulaev in 2008 and more recently returned to the club as an assistant coach. Sabalenka and Koltsov were first linked in June 2021, according to People magazine, and the world number two has frequently posted photos of them together on her Instagram account. "I love you @koltsov2021," she wrote in one post that included heart and other emojis. "Happy birthday my love. You are my dearest person, my best friend and my strongest support. Peace be with you, strength, patience and health. "I hope we will have everything we planned I love you." Koltsov also applauded Sabalenka after the Belarusian won her second consecutive Australian Open title in January. Sabalenka lost in the last 16 at Indian Wells last week and is scheduled to play her first match at the Miami Open on Friday. (With inputs from agencies)

Konstantin Koltsov, tennis star Aryna Sabalenka's boyfriend and former Belarus hockey player, passes away

The South Yorkshire police arrested a man on suspicion of manslaughter over the death of American ice hockey player Adam Johnson who died after his neck was slashed during a match.&nbsp;

The police refused to provide more details regarding the person but said the suspect was under arrest.&nbsp;

"Detectives have today arrested a man on suspicion of manslaughter. He remains in police custody at this time," a spokesperson for the South Yorkshire Police said.&nbsp;

"Our investigation launched immediately following this tragedy and we have been carrying out extensive enquiries ever since to piece together the events which led to the loss of Adam&nbsp;in these unprecedented circumstances," they added.&nbsp;

The post-mortem report of 29-year-old Johnson who played for Nottingham Panthers&nbsp; confirmed that he died as a result of the fatal gash on his neck made by Sheffield Steelers Matt Petgrave's skate blade.&nbsp;

"We have been speaking to highly specialised experts in their field to assist in our inquiries and continue to work closely with the health and safety department at Sheffield City Council, which is supporting our ongoing investigation," added the South Yorkshire police.&nbsp;

<h2>Accident or murder?</h2>

The incident transpired on October 28 during the second period of the&nbsp;Challenge Cup game at Sheffield Steelers' Utilita Arena.

The video footage of the accident that later went viral on social media showed&nbsp;Petgrave charging at Johnson and raising his left leg, exposing the sharp blade which slashed the American's neck. Since then, the authorities have been trying to ascertain if&nbsp;Petgrave's movement was accidental or pre-mediated.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ice-hockey-player-dies-in-freak-accident-during-uk-match-652687">Also read |&nbsp;Ice hockey player dies in 'freak accident' during UK match</a>

Minnesota-born Johnson played for the Pittsburgh Penguins in the National Hockey League before spending the 2020-21 season in Sweden with the Malmo Redhawks.

After Johnson's death, the UK's Elite Ice Hockey League has been recommended that players compulsorily wear the neck guard, otherwise more ice hockey deaths might be in the offing.&nbsp;

However, the Elite League, outside the governing prowess of&nbsp;English Ice Hockey Association (EIHA) said it will&nbsp;not enforce mandatory wearing of the safety equipment but would "strongly encourage" players and officials to wear them.

(With inputs from agencies)

The South Yorkshire police arrested a man on suspicion of manslaughter over the death of American ice hockey player Adam Johnson who died after his neck was slashed during a match.

The South Yorkshire police arrested a man on suspicion of manslaughter over the death of American ice hockey player Adam Johnson who died after his neck was slashed during a match. The police refused to provide more details regarding the person but said the suspect was under arrest. "Detectives have today arrested a man on suspicion of manslaughter. He remains in police custody at this time," a spokesperson for the South Yorkshire Police said. "Our investigation launched immediately following this tragedy and we have been carrying out extensive enquiries ever since to piece together the events which led to the loss of Adam in these unprecedented circumstances," they added. The post-mortem report of 29-year-old Johnson who played for Nottingham Panthers confirmed that he died as a result of the fatal gash on his neck made by Sheffield Steelers Matt Petgrave's skate blade. "We have been speaking to highly specialised experts in their field to assist in our inquiries and continue to work closely with the health and safety department at Sheffield City Council, which is supporting our ongoing investigation," added the South Yorkshire police. Accident or murder? The incident transpired on October 28 during the second period of the Challenge Cup game at Sheffield Steelers' Utilita Arena. The video footage of the accident that later went viral on social media showed Petgrave charging at Johnson and raising his left leg, exposing the sharp blade which slashed the American's neck. Since then, the authorities have been trying to ascertain if Petgrave's movement was accidental or pre-mediated. Also read | Ice hockey player dies in 'freak accident' during UK match Minnesota-born Johnson played for the Pittsburgh Penguins in the National Hockey League before spending the 2020-21 season in Sweden with the Malmo Redhawks. After Johnson's death, the UK's Elite Ice Hockey League has been recommended that players compulsorily wear the neck guard, otherwise more ice hockey deaths might be in the offing. However, the Elite League, outside the governing prowess of English Ice Hockey Association (EIHA) said it will not enforce mandatory wearing of the safety equipment but would "strongly encourage" players and officials to wear them. (With inputs from agencies)

One arrested on manslaughter charges over death of ice hockey player Adam Johnson

An American ice hockey player has died in a "freak accident" during a match for his English club Nottingham Panthers.

Adam Johnson, 29, reportedly suffered a slashed neck during the second period of the Challenge Cup game at Sheffield Steelers' Utilita Arena on Saturday.

"The Nottingham Panthers are truly devastated to announce that Adam Johnson has tragically passed away following a freak accident at the game in Sheffield last night," the club announced on Sunday.

The Panthers thanked "everyone who rushed to support Adam last night in the most testing of circumstances".

"Everyone at the club, including players, staff, management and ownership, are heartbroken at the news of Adam's passing," the statement added.

"Our thoughts are also with the fans and staff of both clubs, especially those who attended or were following the game, who will be devastated following today's news.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-2023-virat-kohli-equals-sachin-tendulkars-this-tally-against-england-despite-failure-652602">ODI World Cup 2023: Virat Kohli equals Sachin Tendulkar's THIS tally against England despite failure</a>

"Adam, our number 47, was not only an outstanding ice hockey player, but also a great teammate and an incredible person with his whole life ahead of him. The club will dearly miss him and will never ever forget him."

Minnesota-born Johnson played for Pittsburgh Penguins in the National Hockey League before spending the 2020-21 season in Sweden with the Malmo Redhawks.

Johnson went on to play in Canada for the Ontario Reign and in Germany for the Augsburger Panther before agreeing to join Nottingham for the 2023-24 campaign.

Sunday's three Elite League games in Belfast, Fife and Guildford have been postponed following the tragedy.

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An American ice hockey player has died in a "freak accident" during a match for his English club Nottingham Panthers. Adam Johnson, 29, reportedly suffered a slashed neck during the second period of the Challenge Cup game at Sheffield Steelers' Utilita Arena on Saturday.

An American ice hockey player has died in a "freak accident" during a match for his English club Nottingham Panthers. Adam Johnson, 29, reportedly suffered a slashed neck during the second period of the Challenge Cup game at Sheffield Steelers' Utilita Arena on Saturday. "The Nottingham Panthers are truly devastated to announce that Adam Johnson has tragically passed away following a freak accident at the game in Sheffield last night," the club announced on Sunday. The Panthers thanked "everyone who rushed to support Adam last night in the most testing of circumstances". "Everyone at the club, including players, staff, management and ownership, are heartbroken at the news of Adam's passing," the statement added. "Our thoughts are also with the fans and staff of both clubs, especially those who attended or were following the game, who will be devastated following today's news. ALSO READ | ODI World Cup 2023: Virat Kohli equals Sachin Tendulkar's THIS tally against England despite failure "Adam, our number 47, was not only an outstanding ice hockey player, but also a great teammate and an incredible person with his whole life ahead of him. The club will dearly miss him and will never ever forget him." Minnesota-born Johnson played for Pittsburgh Penguins in the National Hockey League before spending the 2020-21 season in Sweden with the Malmo Redhawks. Johnson went on to play in Canada for the Ontario Reign and in Germany for the Augsburger Panther before agreeing to join Nottingham for the 2023-24 campaign. Sunday's three Elite League games in Belfast, Fife and Guildford have been postponed following the tragedy. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ice hockey player dies in 'freak accident' during UK match

Toronto Maple Leafs&nbsp;forward prospect Rodion Amirov has died, a year-and-a-half after being diagnosed with a brain tumour, his agent said Monday.

The 21-year-old Russian missed all the 2022-2023 season as he underwent treatment following diagnosis in February last year.

"From the moment he received the news, he refused to speak in the negative, determined to enjoy every day, facing it with the same positive attitude he showed during his hockey career," agent Dan Milstein said in a statement.&nbsp;

"We will always remember his courage, his desire, his will, his smile, all of the great things about him."

Amirov was selected by Toronto with the 15th overall pick in the 2020 draft.

He signed a three-year contract with Toronto in 2020 and joined the team's affiliate squad, the Toronto Marlies for the 2020-2021 campaign.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-test-series-loss-in-sa-to-disappointment-in-wi-t20is-team-indias-shocking-lows-in-rahul-dravids-tenure-625379">From colossal failure in SA to WI T20I series loss: Team India's shocking LOWS in Rahul Dravid's tenure</a>

"The entire Maple Leafs organization is devastated by this tragic loss," Maple Leafs president Brendan Shanahan said in a statement.

"Over the duration of his courageous battle, Rodion's positivity inspired everyone around him, and he made lasting impressions with our team and fans in his brief visits to Toronto.&nbsp;

"It's incredibly sad to see a young man with so much promise taken from us so soon. We offer our deepest condolences to Rodion's family and friends as we mourn this loss together."

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Toronto Maple Leafs forward prospect Rodion Amirov has died, a year-and-a-half after being diagnosed with a brain tumour, his agent said Monday. The 21-year-old Russian missed all the 2022-2023 season as he underwent treatment following diagnosis in February last year.

Toronto Maple Leafs forward prospect Rodion Amirov has died, a year-and-a-half after being diagnosed with a brain tumour, his agent said Monday. The 21-year-old Russian missed all the 2022-2023 season as he underwent treatment following diagnosis in February last year. "From the moment he received the news, he refused to speak in the negative, determined to enjoy every day, facing it with the same positive attitude he showed during his hockey career," agent Dan Milstein said in a statement. "We will always remember his courage, his desire, his will, his smile, all of the great things about him." Amirov was selected by Toronto with the 15th overall pick in the 2020 draft. He signed a three-year contract with Toronto in 2020 and joined the team's affiliate squad, the Toronto Marlies for the 2020-2021 campaign. ALSO READ | From colossal failure in SA to WI T20I series loss: Team India's shocking LOWS in Rahul Dravid's tenure "The entire Maple Leafs organization is devastated by this tragic loss," Maple Leafs president Brendan Shanahan said in a statement. "Over the duration of his courageous battle, Rodion's positivity inspired everyone around him, and he made lasting impressions with our team and fans in his brief visits to Toronto. "It's incredibly sad to see a young man with so much promise taken from us so soon. We offer our deepest condolences to Rodion's family and friends as we mourn this loss together." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ice Hockey: Toronto Maple forward Rodion Amirov dies from brain tumor - Reports

The Iranian Ice Hockey team has bagged the silver medal in an international championship in Thailand. This could come as a ray of hope for thousands of suppressed Iranian women, but will this change Iran's outlook on women? Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Iranian women's Ice Hockey team wins silver medal

Hockey Canada is mired in a sex scandal. It faces accusations of settling a sexual assault lawsuit against 8 players of the junior team. What's worse, the lawsuit was settled with the registration fee aspiring players pay to pursue their dreams. Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas: Canada Ice Hockey mired in sexual abuse scandal

Next year's ice hockey world championship will be moved away from St Petersburg in Russia, governing body IIHF said on Tuesday, due to concerns about the wellbeing of players and officials after Russia`s invasion of Ukraine.

The tournament was scheduled to take place in St Petersburg from May 5-21. The federation said it will name an alternate host for the 2022 world championship, which will take place in Finland. "The decision to relocate the event was taken primarily out of concern for the safety and well-being of all participating players, officials, media, and fans," the IIHF said in a statement.

"The council expressed significant concerns over the safe freedom of movement of players and officials too, from, and within Russia." Earlier this year, the IIHF suspended Russian and Belarusian teams from its competitions until further notice and revoked Russia`s hosting rights for the 2023 world junior championships. Moscow calls its actions in Ukraine a "special military operation". Belarus is a key staging area for the invasion.

St Petersburg and Moscow co-hosted the 2016 world championships, where Russia finished third. 
This year`s edition in Finland will be held from May 13-29 with Austria and France replacing Russia and Belarus.

Next year's ice hockey world championship will be moved away from St Petersburg in Russia, governing body IIHF said on Tuesday, due to concerns about the wellbeing of players and officials after Russia`s invasion of Ukraine.

Next year's ice hockey world championship will be moved away from St Petersburg in Russia, governing body IIHF said on Tuesday, due to concerns about the wellbeing of players and officials after Russia`s invasion of Ukraine. The tournament was scheduled to take place in St Petersburg from May 5-21. The federation said it will name an alternate host for the 2022 world championship, which will take place in Finland. "The decision to relocate the event was taken primarily out of concern for the safety and well-being of all participating players, officials, media, and fans," the IIHF said in a statement. "The council expressed significant concerns over the safe freedom of movement of players and officials too, from, and within Russia." Earlier this year, the IIHF suspended Russian and Belarusian teams from its competitions until further notice and revoked Russia`s hosting rights for the 2023 world junior championships. Moscow calls its actions in Ukraine a "special military operation". Belarus is a key staging area for the invasion. St Petersburg and Moscow co-hosted the 2016 world championships, where Russia finished third. This year`s edition in Finland will be held from May 13-29 with Austria and France replacing Russia and Belarus.

Ice Hockey: Russia loses next year's World Championship

From FIFA to IOC: How sporting bodies have shunned Russia after Ukraine invasion

Canada beat the United States 3-2 to win the women’s ice hockey final at the Beijing Olympics on Thursday, reclaiming the gold medal the Americans had taken from them four years ago in Pyeongchang.

Captain Marie-Philip Poulin scored twice, including the game-winner, after Canadian sharpshooter Sarah Nurse got the team going midway through the first period, as an outgunned U.S. team recorded 40 shots on goal to Canada’s 21 across the entire affair but were unable to convert where it counted.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kamila-valieva-recieves-loud-cheers-breaks-down-after-returning-to-action-for-1st-time-since-doping-scandal-453839">Kamila Valieva receives loud cheers, breaks down after returning to action for 1st time since doping scandal</a>

Four-time Olympian Hilary Knight got the United States on the board with a shorthanded effort with less than four minutes to go in the second and the Americans converted on a power play with 13 seconds to go in the third after pulling their goalie.

Finland defeated Switzerland the previous day to take bronze.

Canada beat the United States 3-2 to win the women’s ice hockey final at the Beijing Olympics on Thursday, reclaiming the gold medal the Americans had taken from them four years ago in Pyeongchang.

Canada beat the United States 3-2 to win the women’s ice hockey final at the Beijing Olympics on Thursday, reclaiming the gold medal the Americans had taken from them four years ago in Pyeongchang. Captain Marie-Philip Poulin scored twice, including the game-winner, after Canadian sharpshooter Sarah Nurse got the team going midway through the first period, as an outgunned U.S. team recorded 40 shots on goal to Canada’s 21 across the entire affair but were unable to convert where it counted. ALSO READ: Kamila Valieva receives loud cheers, breaks down after returning to action for 1st time since doping scandal Four-time Olympian Hilary Knight got the United States on the board with a shorthanded effort with less than four minutes to go in the second and the Americans converted on a power play with 13 seconds to go in the third after pulling their goalie. Finland defeated Switzerland the previous day to take bronze.

Beijing Winter Olympics: Canada reclaims gold medal, U.S. settles for silver in ice hockey

Six members of the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) women`s ice hockey team are in isolation after testing positive for COVID-19, the TASS news agency reported on Thursday.

The ROC practised on Thursday without the isolating players and are scheduled to play their Games opener on Friday against Switzerland.

"We aren’t in contact with anyone in the Olympic Village," Russian head coach Evgeny Bobariko said. "Nobody goes anywhere.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/winter-olympics-german-record-holder-claudia-pechstein-to-carry-flag-450103">Winter Olympics: German record holder Claudia Pechstein to carry flag</a>

"Everyone sits in their rooms, food is brought to them. We only leave our rooms to get tested.

"We are not allowed to use elevator, everyone goes down using the stairs."

The RIA news agency reported the six Russian players in isolation are Angelina Goncharenko, Olga Sosina, Lyudmila Belyakova, Ekaterina Nikolayeva, Diana Fakhrutdinova and Liana Ganeyeva.

Six members of the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) women`s ice hockey team are in isolation after testing positive for COVID-19, the TASS news agency reported on Thursday.

Six members of the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) women`s ice hockey team are in isolation after testing positive for COVID-19, the TASS news agency reported on Thursday. The ROC practised on Thursday without the isolating players and are scheduled to play their Games opener on Friday against Switzerland. "We aren’t in contact with anyone in the Olympic Village," Russian head coach Evgeny Bobariko said. "Nobody goes anywhere. Read Also | Winter Olympics: German record holder Claudia Pechstein to carry flag "Everyone sits in their rooms, food is brought to them. We only leave our rooms to get tested. "We are not allowed to use elevator, everyone goes down using the stairs." The RIA news agency reported the six Russian players in isolation are Angelina Goncharenko, Olga Sosina, Lyudmila Belyakova, Ekaterina Nikolayeva, Diana Fakhrutdinova and Liana Ganeyeva.

Six Russian women's ice hockey players in isolation after Covid positive tests

Russian President Vladimir Putin played a game of ice hockey in St. Petersburg with his Belarusian counterpart Alexander Lukashenko after their diplomatic talks on Wednesday (December 29).&nbsp;

The Russian President donned his favoured number 11 jersey during a decisive 18-7 win in an ice hockey game. The friendly match was played after bilateral talks were broadcast on state television.

Lukashenko was given the coveted number one shirt as he played for the same team as Putin, who was nothing short of a Most Valuable Player (MVP) after scoring seven goals. Meanwhile, Lukashenko scored two goals.

The leaders were also joined by the Belarusian's son Nikolai during the match at the Manezh children's and youth sports school in Strelna.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-in-the-mood-for-a-conversation-says-russia-ahead-of-putin-biden-phone-call-441185">We are in the mood for a conversation, says Russia ahead of Putin-Biden phone call</a>

Watch the video here:

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🇷🇺🇧🇾 Putin and Lukashenko will play hockey. Lukashenko at number 01, Putin at number 11.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Belarus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Belarus</a> <a href="https://t.co/LTeqoTgzqx">pic.twitter.com/LTeqoTgzqx</a>
— Dailyaz (@dailyaz1) <a href="https://twitter.com/dailyaz1/status/1476227887145660417?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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VIDEO: Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Belarusian counterpart Alexander Lukashenko play ice hockey after holding diplomatic talks. 
Both presidents played on the same team - Putin scoring 7 goals and Lukashenko 2, with the leaders coasting home in an 18:7 drubbing <a href="https://t.co/JRqWFDufvO">pic.twitter.com/JRqWFDufvO</a>
— Der politische Kater! 🙀😹🙀😹🙀😹🙀😹 (@GrunkohlProblem) <a href="https://twitter.com/GrunkohlProblem/status/1476586528835096577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Putin said earlier on Wednesday that Russia and Belarus plan to hold joint military drills in February or March 2022.&nbsp;

The planned exercises, on Belarusian territory, has been announced amid unprecedented East-West tensions, with Russia demanding that NATO promise not to admit Ukraine, which borders both Russia and Belarus.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Ukraine says Russia may be preparing for an invasion, something Moscow had denied.

Russian President Vladimir Putin played a game of ice hockey in St. Petersburg with his Belarusian counterpart Alexander Lukashenko after their diplomatic talks on Wednesday (December 29).

Russian President Vladimir Putin played a game of ice hockey in St. Petersburg with his Belarusian counterpart Alexander Lukashenko after their diplomatic talks on Wednesday (December 29). The Russian President donned his favoured number 11 jersey during a decisive 18-7 win in an ice hockey game. The friendly match was played after bilateral talks were broadcast on state television. Lukashenko was given the coveted number one shirt as he played for the same team as Putin, who was nothing short of a Most Valuable Player (MVP) after scoring seven goals. Meanwhile, Lukashenko scored two goals. The leaders were also joined by the Belarusian's son Nikolai during the match at the Manezh children's and youth sports school in Strelna. ALSO READ | We are in the mood for a conversation, says Russia ahead of Putin-Biden phone call Watch the video here: 🇷🇺🇧🇾 Putin and Lukashenko will play hockey. Lukashenko at number 01, Putin at number 11.#Russia #Belarus pic.twitter.com/LTeqoTgzqx — Dailyaz (@dailyaz1) December 29, 2021 × VIDEO: Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Belarusian counterpart Alexander Lukashenko play ice hockey after holding diplomatic talks. Both presidents played on the same team - Putin scoring 7 goals and Lukashenko 2, with the leaders coasting home in an 18:7 drubbing pic.twitter.com/JRqWFDufvO — Der politische Kater! 🙀😹🙀😹🙀😹🙀😹 (@GrunkohlProblem) December 30, 2021 × Putin said earlier on Wednesday that Russia and Belarus plan to hold joint military drills in February or March 2022. The planned exercises, on Belarusian territory, has been announced amid unprecedented East-West tensions, with Russia demanding that NATO promise not to admit Ukraine, which borders both Russia and Belarus. On the other hand, Ukraine says Russia may be preparing for an invasion, something Moscow had denied.

Watch: Putin and Lukashenko play ice hockey for one team; guess how many goals Russian President scored

The temperatures in Ladakh at places like Drass have dipped to minus 19 degrees. While the people are facing several problems due to the cold, the youngsters are making use of these minus degrees.&nbsp;

The youngsters are playing Ice skating and Ice Hockey in naturally formed Ice rinks. The first Ice Hockey camp has been organized by Ladakh Women's Ice Hockey Foundation in Drass.

The main aim for this is preparing the women's team in Kargil and Drass areas. The Ice Hockey coaches are taking full advantage of the premature cold to prepare the team for the National Games for Ladakh.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-two-terrorists-killed-in-encounter-in-kulgam-437250" hreflang="en">Jammu and Kashmir: Two terrorists killed in encounter in Kulgam</a>

"The hockey team that we have now has 30 girls out of which most of the girls are from Leh, that's why we have organized this camp in Drass, in which 15 out of the 40 girls involved should be selected for the Ladakh women's team'' said Noor Banu, General Secretary, and Ice Hockey Coach, Ladakh Women's Ice Hockey Foundation.&nbsp;

This is the first time a platform for girls of Kargil is being started to involve them in winter sports activities. So far, many male sportsmen have been involved in ice skating and ice hockey games have come out of places like Drass and Kargil.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-government-clears-proposal-to-raise-marriage-age-of-women-from-18-to-21-same-as-men-437247" hreflang="en">Indian government clears proposal to raise marriage age of women from 18 to 21, same as men</a>

A 15-day training camp was organized at the natural ice rink at Zanskar. A large number of women not only participated in this camp but also brought the dream of New Ladakh to come true.&nbsp;

''I am extremely happy to be here, Coach trains us so well. I want to tell other girls also to join, it's a great feeling and there is scope to play at national and international level,'' said Nadia, a student.&nbsp;

The girls of Kargil are extremely happy with withholding such an event. Girls from the region are being allowed to show their&nbsp;talent and be a part of teams to represent their country at the National and International levels.&nbsp;

The temperatures in Ladakh at places like Drass have dipped to minus 19 degrees. While the people are facing several problems due to the cold, the youngsters are making use of these minus degrees.

The temperatures in Ladakh at places like Drass have dipped to minus 19 degrees. While the people are facing several problems due to the cold, the youngsters are making use of these minus degrees. The youngsters are playing Ice skating and Ice Hockey in naturally formed Ice rinks. The first Ice Hockey camp has been organized by Ladakh Women's Ice Hockey Foundation in Drass. The main aim for this is preparing the women's team in Kargil and Drass areas. The Ice Hockey coaches are taking full advantage of the premature cold to prepare the team for the National Games for Ladakh. Also read | Jammu and Kashmir: Two terrorists killed in encounter in Kulgam "The hockey team that we have now has 30 girls out of which most of the girls are from Leh, that's why we have organized this camp in Drass, in which 15 out of the 40 girls involved should be selected for the Ladakh women's team'' said Noor Banu, General Secretary, and Ice Hockey Coach, Ladakh Women's Ice Hockey Foundation. This is the first time a platform for girls of Kargil is being started to involve them in winter sports activities. So far, many male sportsmen have been involved in ice skating and ice hockey games have come out of places like Drass and Kargil. Also read | Indian government clears proposal to raise marriage age of women from 18 to 21, same as men A 15-day training camp was organized at the natural ice rink at Zanskar. A large number of women not only participated in this camp but also brought the dream of New Ladakh to come true. ''I am extremely happy to be here, Coach trains us so well. I want to tell other girls also to join, it's a great feeling and there is scope to play at national and international level,'' said Nadia, a student. The girls of Kargil are extremely happy with withholding such an event. Girls from the region are being allowed to show their talent and be a part of teams to represent their country at the National and International levels.

First women ice hockey development camp started at Drass in minus 19 degree temperatures

March 3 in history: First indoor ice hockey game, Saudi oil discovery and lots more!

A group of girls from a remote village in Kyrgyzstan have come together to form the central Asian country's first all-female ice hockey team - Shapak.

Kyrgyzstan's first female team shatters stereotypes

Russian President Vladimir Putin hit the ice on Friday in a hockey game in which he showed off his puck-handling skills and scored eight goals -- a display that reinforced his image as a man of action.

A judo black belt, Putin has long been keen to show off his athletic prowess, including by working out with Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, hitting the ski slopes in Sochi or diving to the bottom of the Black Sea.

Skating alongside Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Russian hockey greats such as Pavel Bure and Igor Larionov, Putin helped his side to an emphatic 14-7 win in the Night Hockey League.

Playing centre forward, Putin was provided with plenty of scoring opportunities by his linemates and was met with little resistance by the opposing team's defence.

After winning the match, celebrating along with his teammates, Putin took a fall during his victory lap.

The 66-year-old appeared in good spirits after tripping on a red mat laid on the ice and was helped up by his fellow teammates.

Putin, whose approval ratings have slipped in recent years as Russia battles economic woes, periodically plays hockey with government officials, businessmen and former National Hockey League (NHL) stars in matches that are broadcast with pomp on national television.

After opening the scoring unassisted by beating the goaltender 2 minutes into the game, the 66-year-old added seven more goals, making him the top scorer.

Russian President Vladimir Putin hit the ice on Friday in a hockey game in which he showed off his puck-handling skills and scored eight goals -- a display that reinforced his image as a man of action.

Russian President Vladimir Putin hit the ice on Friday in a hockey game in which he showed off his puck-handling skills and scored eight goals -- a display that reinforced his image as a man of action. A judo black belt, Putin has long been keen to show off his athletic prowess, including by working out with Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, hitting the ski slopes in Sochi or diving to the bottom of the Black Sea. Skating alongside Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Russian hockey greats such as Pavel Bure and Igor Larionov, Putin helped his side to an emphatic 14-7 win in the Night Hockey League. Playing centre forward, Putin was provided with plenty of scoring opportunities by his linemates and was met with little resistance by the opposing team's defence. After winning the match, celebrating along with his teammates, Putin took a fall during his victory lap. The 66-year-old appeared in good spirits after tripping on a red mat laid on the ice and was helped up by his fellow teammates. Putin, whose approval ratings have slipped in recent years as Russia battles economic woes, periodically plays hockey with government officials, businessmen and former National Hockey League (NHL) stars in matches that are broadcast with pomp on national television. After opening the scoring unassisted by beating the goaltender 2 minutes into the game, the 66-year-old added seven more goals, making him the top scorer.

Russian President Vladimir Putin scores eight goals in all-star hockey game

The ice hockey was one of the key&nbsp;events of 23rd Winter Games as for the first time in history joint Korean team was supposed to appear at Olympics.

The first combined Korean team in Olympic history suffered a resounding 8-0 defeat to Switzerland in women&#39;s ice hockey at the Pyeongchang Winter Games on Saturday.

Watched by a high-level North Korean delegation and South Korean President Moon Jae-in -- and a North Korean cheerleading squad -- the team was no match for the Swiss.

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The cheers from the crowed lighted up the atmosphere at the Women&rsquo;s Ice Hockey Game between Team Corea and Switzerland! ????????코리아 팀의 아이스하키 경기에 펼쳐진 열띤 응원전이 펼쳐졌습니다!응원에 힘입어 멋진 경기를 펼치는 선수들! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%EC%BD%94%EB%A6%AC%EC%95%84?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#코리아</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%ED%99%94%EC%9D%B4%ED%8C%85?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#화이팅</a>!????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PyeongChang2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PyeongChang2018</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pyeongChang?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pyeongChang</a> <a href="https://t.co/dcFdYi5qa5">pic.twitter.com/dcFdYi5qa5</a>
&mdash; PyeongChang 2018 (@pyeongchang2018) <a href="https://twitter.com/pyeongchang2018/status/962322626310848517?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Alina Muller scored four while Phoebe Staenz and Lara Stalder both struck twice to rout the Korean team, who had only played together once before and looked out of their depth.

The Koreas also play Japan and Sweden in Group B. It was the first time the Koreas, who marched together at Friday&#39;s opening ceremony, have competed side-by-side at an Olympics.

&nbsp;

The first combined Korean team in Olympic history suffered a resounding 8-0 defeat to Switzerland in women's ice hockey

The ice hockey was one of the key events of 23rd Winter Games as for the first time in history joint Korean team was supposed to appear at Olympics. The first combined Korean team in Olympic history suffered a resounding 8-0 defeat to Switzerland in women's ice hockey at the Pyeongchang Winter Games on Saturday. Watched by a high-level North Korean delegation and South Korean President Moon Jae-in -- and a North Korean cheerleading squad -- the team was no match for the Swiss. The cheers from the crowed lighted up the atmosphere at the Women’s Ice Hockey Game between Team Corea and Switzerland! ????????코리아 팀의 아이스하키 경기에 펼쳐진 열띤 응원전이 펼쳐졌습니다!응원에 힘입어 멋진 경기를 펼치는 선수들! #코리아 #화이팅!????#PyeongChang2018 #pyeongChang pic.twitter.com/dcFdYi5qa5 — PyeongChang 2018 (@pyeongchang2018) February 10, 2018 × Alina Muller scored four while Phoebe Staenz and Lara Stalder both struck twice to rout the Korean team, who had only played together once before and looked out of their depth. The Koreas also play Japan and Sweden in Group B. It was the first time the Koreas, who marched together at Friday's opening ceremony, have competed side-by-side at an Olympics.

Switzerland trounces unified Korean ice hockey team

Jordan Greenway, the first African-American US Olympic ice hockey player, hopes to inspire black youth to his sport the way Tiger Woods did in golf or Serena Williams has in tennis.

&quot;I just really want kids out there to do something different, go against the colour barrier in the sports world,&quot; Greenway said. &quot;You see African-American players in other sports like basketball and football. I want kids to feel all right to go try something different.&quot;

The 20-year-old Boston University star forward is one of four collegians on the US roster and helped the Americans win the 2017 World Junior Championships, scoring three goals and setting up five more.

&quot;It&#39;s a proud feeling to win a gold medal for the USA and I want to have that feeling again on the biggest stage,&quot; Greenway said.

&quot;Winning a gold medal is a feeling you can&#39;t put into words. That&#39;s motivating me every day to work hard. I couldn&#39;t be more excited. I always had a dream to play in the Olympics. I didn&#39;t think it was going to happen.&quot;

Greenway has his chance because the National Hockey League, which had shut down for every Winter Olympics since 1998 so players could compete in the Games, decided against the move this season, opening the door for Europe-based talent, minor-leaguers and top collegians.

Not that Greenway isn&#39;t good enough for the NHL. He was a 2015 second-round NHL Draft pick by Minnesota, 50th overall, and at 6-foot-6 (1.97m) and 227 (103kg) pounds he&#39;s the largest player on the US Olympic roster.

&quot;Jordan&#39;s size and ability will be a big factor in penalty kills and power play,&quot; US coach Tony Granato said. &quot;His versatility will bring something special as a player.&quot;

Jordan accepts his racial pioneer role with pride and responsibility.

&quot;Being the first African-American, I&#39;m really honoured by that. Hopefully, I&#39;ve been a role model to other African-American kids to go out and do something different.

You don&#39;t see a lot of African-Americans playing hockey. Hopefully, I can inspire them.&quot;

Greenway has 24 goals and 57 assists in under three seasons with a perennial college power and could play a major role in the American men&#39;s quest for their first gold since 1980.

&quot;Our college guys, I think they can compete in the NHL right now,&quot; Granato said. &quot;They are going to have a major impact on how we do.&quot;

Greenway wouldn&#39;t have it any other way.

&quot;I want to make an impact any way I can,&quot; Greenway said. &quot;I&#39;ll put in all the effort I&#39;ve got.&quot;

&nbsp;

"I just really want kids out there to do something different, go against the colour barrier in the sports world," says Jordan Greenway.

Jordan Greenway, the first African-American US Olympic ice hockey player, hopes to inspire black youth to his sport the way Tiger Woods did in golf or Serena Williams has in tennis. "I just really want kids out there to do something different, go against the colour barrier in the sports world," Greenway said. "You see African-American players in other sports like basketball and football. I want kids to feel all right to go try something different." The 20-year-old Boston University star forward is one of four collegians on the US roster and helped the Americans win the 2017 World Junior Championships, scoring three goals and setting up five more. "It's a proud feeling to win a gold medal for the USA and I want to have that feeling again on the biggest stage," Greenway said. "Winning a gold medal is a feeling you can't put into words. That's motivating me every day to work hard. I couldn't be more excited. I always had a dream to play in the Olympics. I didn't think it was going to happen." Greenway has his chance because the National Hockey League, which had shut down for every Winter Olympics since 1998 so players could compete in the Games, decided against the move this season, opening the door for Europe-based talent, minor-leaguers and top collegians. Not that Greenway isn't good enough for the NHL. He was a 2015 second-round NHL Draft pick by Minnesota, 50th overall, and at 6-foot-6 (1.97m) and 227 (103kg) pounds he's the largest player on the US Olympic roster. "Jordan's size and ability will be a big factor in penalty kills and power play," US coach Tony Granato said. "His versatility will bring something special as a player." Jordan accepts his racial pioneer role with pride and responsibility. "Being the first African-American, I'm really honoured by that. Hopefully, I've been a role model to other African-American kids to go out and do something different. You don't see a lot of African-Americans playing hockey. Hopefully, I can inspire them." Greenway has 24 goals and 57 assists in under three seasons with a perennial college power and could play a major role in the American men's quest for their first gold since 1980. "Our college guys, I think they can compete in the NHL right now," Granato said. "They are going to have a major impact on how we do." Greenway wouldn't have it any other way. "I want to make an impact any way I can," Greenway said. "I'll put in all the effort I've got."

Olympics: Hockey pioneer hopes to inspire black kids

The unified Korean women&#39;s ice hockey team faced an unexpected challenge at their first joint training session, reports said Monday -- vastly different hockey terminology on either side of the divided peninsula.

Seven decades of almost total separation after the 1950-53 Korean War, with all ordinary civilian contact blocked between North and South, has seen their once common language diverge in many respects.

The two Koreas still share the same writing system, known as Hangul -- an alphabet developed in the 15th century to replace Chinese characters.

But different words are emerging as they develop separately, and in the capitalist South, ice hockey players adapted the sounds of English words for most sporting terms.

Skating is called &quot;seu-ke-ee-ting&quot; and a &quot;t-push&quot; -- a defensive technique by a goalie -- is &quot;tee-pu-sh&quot;. &nbsp;

But the North created its own Korean-language words for each move, calling skating &quot;apuro jee chee gee&quot;, while a &quot;t-push&quot; is a &quot;moonjeegee eedong&quot;, literally meaning &quot;a move by a gatekeeper&quot;.

To overcome communication issues the South&#39;s&nbsp;sports&nbsp;authorities put together a list of the different vocabularies and distributed it to the players ahead of their first skate together on Sunday.

It also includes the English pronunciation of the North Korean terms -- apparently for the use of the South Korean team&#39;s Canadian coach Sarah Murray.

The list was intended &quot;to help players understand&quot;, one official of the Korea Ice Hockey Association (KIHA) told the South&#39;s top-selling Chosun daily.

&quot;But people are still in the process of getting used to it, so we hear a mishmash of terms from both sides during practice.&quot;

Three letter code

The joint team was forged as part of peace efforts by Seoul to use the Pyeongchang Winter Games in the South to ease tension on the flashpoint peninsula. &nbsp;

The atmosphere at the first practice was &quot;serious but amicable&quot;, Seoul&#39;s News1 news agency said, citing an KIHA official, adding many Northern players had demonstrated &quot;great focus and fighting spirit&quot;. &nbsp;

Since the division of the peninsula, the two Koreas have only competed as unified teams in 1991, when their women won the team gold at the world table tennis championship in Japan, and their under-19 footballers reached the world championship quarter-finals in Portugal.

North and South have their own three-letter Olympic country codes -- PRK and KOR respectively, for People&#39;s Republic of Korea and Korean Republic -- and the unified team has been accorded its own country code, COR, from the French word for Korea, Cor&eacute;e.&nbsp;

The ice hockey squad is made up of 23 South Korean players and 12 Northerners, who crossed the Demilitarized Zone last week. They are scheduled to hold a warm-up match against Sweden on Sunday.

But the last-minute creation of the team sparked controversy among many South Koreans who accused Seoul of using athletes for political purposes and robbing Southern players of opportunities to compete at the Olympics.&nbsp;

The North will send another 10 athletes to take part in the Games in other&nbsp;sports including cross-country skiing and figure skating after its leader Kim Jong-Un announced a plan to join the event in his New Year speech.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

To overcome communication issues the South's sports authorities put together a list of the different vocabularies and distributed it to the players

The unified Korean women's ice hockey team faced an unexpected challenge at their first joint training session, reports said Monday -- vastly different hockey terminology on either side of the divided peninsula. Seven decades of almost total separation after the 1950-53 Korean War, with all ordinary civilian contact blocked between North and South, has seen their once common language diverge in many respects. The two Koreas still share the same writing system, known as Hangul -- an alphabet developed in the 15th century to replace Chinese characters. But different words are emerging as they develop separately, and in the capitalist South, ice hockey players adapted the sounds of English words for most sporting terms. Skating is called "seu-ke-ee-ting" and a "t-push" -- a defensive technique by a goalie -- is "tee-pu-sh". But the North created its own Korean-language words for each move, calling skating "apuro jee chee gee", while a "t-push" is a "moonjeegee eedong", literally meaning "a move by a gatekeeper". To overcome communication issues the South's sports authorities put together a list of the different vocabularies and distributed it to the players ahead of their first skate together on Sunday. It also includes the English pronunciation of the North Korean terms -- apparently for the use of the South Korean team's Canadian coach Sarah Murray. The list was intended "to help players understand", one official of the Korea Ice Hockey Association (KIHA) told the South's top-selling Chosun daily. "But people are still in the process of getting used to it, so we hear a mishmash of terms from both sides during practice." Three letter code The joint team was forged as part of peace efforts by Seoul to use the Pyeongchang Winter Games in the South to ease tension on the flashpoint peninsula. The atmosphere at the first practice was "serious but amicable", Seoul's News1 news agency said, citing an KIHA official, adding many Northern players had demonstrated "great focus and fighting spirit". Since the division of the peninsula, the two Koreas have only competed as unified teams in 1991, when their women won the team gold at the world table tennis championship in Japan, and their under-19 footballers reached the world championship quarter-finals in Portugal. North and South have their own three-letter Olympic country codes -- PRK and KOR respectively, for People's Republic of Korea and Korean Republic -- and the unified team has been accorded its own country code, COR, from the French word for Korea, Corée. The ice hockey squad is made up of 23 South Korean players and 12 Northerners, who crossed the Demilitarized Zone last week. They are scheduled to hold a warm-up match against Sweden on Sunday. But the last-minute creation of the team sparked controversy among many South Koreans who accused Seoul of using athletes for political purposes and robbing Southern players of opportunities to compete at the Olympics. The North will send another 10 athletes to take part in the Games in other sports including cross-country skiing and figure skating after its leader Kim Jong-Un announced a plan to join the event in his New Year speech.

Winter Olympics: Unified Korean ice hockey team lost in translation

Indian Women&#39;s Ice Hockey Team registered their first victory in an international match on Thursday after beating Philippines at the 2017 IIHF Challenge Cup of Asia in Bangkok.

The Indian team scored their first goal in the second period and carried the match with a clear 1-0 advantage.The last period of the match saw both the teams fight out for the top with both teams scoring 3 goals each. But India&rsquo;s lead of 1 goal in the second period, led the Indian women&rsquo;s team to win by 4-3.&nbsp;

<h3>Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-women-ice-hockey-team-uses-crowdfunding-technique-to-play-in-challenge-cup-of-asia-12688">Indian Women&#39;s Hockey Team&#39;s crowdfunding campaign</a></h3>

&nbsp;

Indian Women Ice Hockey&#39;s Team got their first international exposure last year, when they participated in the 2016 Challenge Cup of Asia in Chinese Taipei. The sporting event aims at supporting&nbsp;ice hockey friendly countries in Asia.&nbsp;

This year, for the team to participate, they carried a fundraising campaign. The 28 women team, had nothing to start with: funds for travelling, jersey, training equipment&nbsp;and other requirements of playing the sport. With the help of a crowdfunding campaign, some 3000 donors came together to fund the journey of the Indian team to becoming victorious. &nbsp;

Prasar Bharti came out to congratulate the winning team on Twitter:&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Unforgettable Moment ! 
Indian Women&#39;s ice hockey team registers its first ever international win beating Philippines 4-3 in Bangkok. <a href="https://t.co/R4pAVx5r1K">pic.twitter.com/R4pAVx5r1K</a>
&mdash; Prasar Bharati (@prasarbharati) <a href="https://twitter.com/prasarbharati/status/839824762582913024">March 9, 2017</a></blockquote>

Kudos, Indian Women&#39;s Hockey Team!

(WION)

Struggling for funds, the Indian team raised money using crowdfunding campaign to play the match

Indian Women's Ice Hockey Team registered their first victory in an international match on Thursday after beating Philippines at the 2017 IIHF Challenge Cup of Asia in Bangkok. The Indian team scored their first goal in the second period and carried the match with a clear 1-0 advantage.The last period of the match saw both the teams fight out for the top with both teams scoring 3 goals each. But India’s lead of 1 goal in the second period, led the Indian women’s team to win by 4-3. Read: Indian Women's Hockey Team's crowdfunding campaign Indian Women Ice Hockey's Team got their first international exposure last year, when they participated in the 2016 Challenge Cup of Asia in Chinese Taipei. The sporting event aims at supporting ice hockey friendly countries in Asia. This year, for the team to participate, they carried a fundraising campaign. The 28 women team, had nothing to start with: funds for travelling, jersey, training equipment and other requirements of playing the sport. With the help of a crowdfunding campaign, some 3000 donors came together to fund the journey of the Indian team to becoming victorious. Prasar Bharti came out to congratulate the winning team on Twitter: Unforgettable Moment ! Indian Women's ice hockey team registers its first ever international win beating Philippines 4-3 in Bangkok. pic.twitter.com/R4pAVx5r1K — Prasar Bharati (@prasarbharati) March 9, 2017 Kudos, Indian Women's Hockey Team! (WION)

Challenge Cup of Asia 2017: Indian women's ice hockey team wins first match

2017 Asian Winter Games started last Sunday and will continue till February 26 but the Indian women&rsquo;s ice hockey team could not be part of the tournament because of lack of funds.&nbsp;

The Indian Ice Hockey Association of India is now using crowdfunding platform to raise awareness and seek help. The Indian ice hockey team consists of a group of girls from the Himalayan mountain range. These team&nbsp;practices skating on a frozen pond in Gupuks, Leh, in the middle of Himalayas.&nbsp;

While most would not be aware of the sport or that the South Asian country has a full-fledged team, the team has participated in the International Competition in Chinese Taipei.&nbsp;

The team comprising of relatively young players&nbsp;has even come close to beating Malaysia&nbsp;the group stages. A team member, Noor Jahan, was awarded the tournament&rsquo;s Best Goaltender Award after saving 193 shots in a match.&nbsp;

But owing to lack of awareness resulting in almost nil sponsorships, the team suffers from funding problems, lack of training equipment and&nbsp;unavailability of a proper rink. They are currently in the process of raising money using Ketto, for the upcoming Challenge Cup of Asia. Using Ketto, they have been able to raise 50% of their target, Rs. 17 lacs till today(February 22). &nbsp;

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="430" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/czzb34MaFN4" width="970"></iframe>

(WION)

The team had to miss out on 2017 Asian Winter Games due to lack of funds

2017 Asian Winter Games started last Sunday and will continue till February 26 but the Indian women’s ice hockey team could not be part of the tournament because of lack of funds. The Indian Ice Hockey Association of India is now using crowdfunding platform to raise awareness and seek help. The Indian ice hockey team consists of a group of girls from the Himalayan mountain range. These team practices skating on a frozen pond in Gupuks, Leh, in the middle of Himalayas. While most would not be aware of the sport or that the South Asian country has a full-fledged team, the team has participated in the International Competition in Chinese Taipei. The team comprising of relatively young players has even come close to beating Malaysia the group stages. A team member, Noor Jahan, was awarded the tournament’s Best Goaltender Award after saving 193 shots in a match. But owing to lack of awareness resulting in almost nil sponsorships, the team suffers from funding problems, lack of training equipment and unavailability of a proper rink. They are currently in the process of raising money using Ketto, for the upcoming Challenge Cup of Asia. Using Ketto, they have been able to raise 50% of their target, Rs. 17 lacs till today(February 22). (WION)

Indian women ice hockey team uses 'crowdfunding technique' to play in Challenge Cup of Asia

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