The World Girls’ Ice Hockey Weekend (WGIHW) is a global opportunity for girls to try hockey as a new sport, led by the IIHF.
Since its inception in 2011, thousands of participants have taken part worldwide, while hundreds of players have been involved in the UK at the time.
This year’s event was hosted by the Nottingham Vipers, organized in association with Ice Hockey UK and the National Ice Centre.
Players arrived at 11am before taking part in a number of welcome games which allowed participants to get to know each other. All players then went to gather equipment and get ready for the session on the ice.
The girls were introduced to ice hockey, learning how to skate, stickhandling, passing and shooting before putting their skills to the test in a mini-game.
After the session, all participants received an invitation to join the Nottingham Vipers and watch a future match.
Ryan Rathbone, Head of Ice Sports at the National Ice Center & Motorpoint Arena Nottingham, said: “WGIHW has been a key part of the Nottingham Vipers development plan, growing women’s hockey in Nottingham from just one to three teams over the last two years.
“Membership has also increased significantly, from less than twenty players in 2022 to more than 80 today.
“The event provides a valuable opportunity to promote women’s hockey worldwide and remove barriers to participation in a fun, safe and inclusive environment.
“It gives female players in Nottingham the opportunity to experience the excitement and fun that comes with the sport.
“WGIHW also allows us to leverage international messaging and PR to highlight the benefits of women’s hockey and continue to grow the game.”
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