National Championships Ready To Go in Newcastle
Published Mon 08 Jul 2024
Ice Hockey Australia counts down to the kick off of the inaugural combined National Championships in Newcastle.
Hunter Ice Skating Stadium, 12 July to 21 July 2024
The highly anticipated 2024 National Championships will take place from July 12 to July 21 at the prestigious Hunter Ice Skating Stadium, promising an unforgettable showcase of ice hockey talent and competition. Ice Hockey Australia together with their valued partners and member associations and volunteers are thrilled to soon be coming together for the event, marking an exciting evolution for the sport in the country.
This year's National Championships will see a dynamic shift, consolidating several categories into a combined event. The Championships will feature the prestigious Steph Boxall Women's, Sydney Tange U18, Kurt Defris U15, and Phillip Ginsberg U13 divisions, creating an immersive and comprehensive celebration of Australian ice hockey.
The decision to amalgamate these categories reflects a commitment to fostering inclusivity, encouraging the development of players at all levels, and providing a platform for the nation's best to compete on the same stage. This innovative approach is expected to elevate the overall excitement and intensity of the tournament, offering fans a unique opportunity to witness the diverse skills and strategies across different age groups.
"By combining various divisions into one spectacular event, we aim to showcase the depth and breadth of talent within our ice hockey community. This format not only promotes inclusivity but also presents a fantastic opportunity for players of all ages to learn from one another," said Adam Woolnough, General Manager of Ice Hockey Australia. Further, Dawn Watt the National Championship Tournament Director and experienced ice hockey executive has thrown all of her support behind the groundbreaking event saying, “The Championships in one location is a first for Australia. It is very exciting for states to be able to cheer on their teammates in all age groups and especially important for National coaches and individuals responsible for player development to be able to converge on one spot to watch all of the upcoming talent. Also, thanks to the Championships all being at the same time, we can guarantee the best referees that Australia has to offer.”
The Hunter Ice Skating Stadium, located in a vibrant sporting and ice hockey community, will serve as the ideal backdrop for this historic event. Known for its passionate fan base, thousands are expected to travel from all over the country to join the excitement to the National Championships.
Stay tuned for upcoming news on special guests and events through the blockbuster tournament. Ice Hockey Australia invites you to witness a new era in Australian ice hockey at the Hunter Ice Skating Stadium. This promises to be an unforgettable experience that will captivate fans, inspire players, and leave a lasting impact on the future of the sport. We thank our valued partners for their contribution and support – Skaters Network, Belgravia Leisure and Lake Macquarie City Council.
For further information:
Adam Woolnough
General Manager – Ice Hockey Australia
+61 410 549 559 | adam.woolnough@iha.org.au
