Bulgaria is making significant strides in the 2025 IIHF World Championship, having successfully climbed out of the lower tier. This week, the country celebrated a remarkable achievement by winning the women’s Division III Group B World Championship held in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The victory not only showcases Bulgaria’s growing talent in women’s ice hockey but also secures their promotion to a higher division in the upcoming championship. The team’s hard work and dedication have truly paid off, marking a proud moment for the nation.
As Bulgaria continues to develop its women ice hockey program, this success serves as a strong foundation for future competitions. The enthusiasm and support for women’s sports in the country are on the rise, and this championship win is sure to inspire even more young athletes to take up the sport.
Bulgaria wins its first gold medal in Women ice hockey.
Despite the setback against Bosnia, Bulgaria bounced back strongly. They demonstrated their resilience and skill by clinching a crucial 5-3 win over Estonia. This victory not only showcased their determination but also secured their promotion in the tournament, marking a successful campaign overall.
Bulgaria showcased the youngest squad at the tournament, with nearly all of their players still in their teenage years. Leading the charge was 19-year-old Maria Runevska, who topped the scoring charts for Bulgaria, netting five goals and accumulating 11 points over four matches. Her impressive performance earned her the title of Best Forward in the tournament.
On the other hand, 16-year-old Lior Lesham from Israel, who competes with the Dallas Stars Elite 16-U team in North America, stood out among defensemen, finishing as the top scorer with 10 points in four games. His contributions were significant, showcasing the talent of young players on the international stage.
However, it was the seasoned Estonian player Aleksandra-Olga Seppar who captured the Best Defender award from the tournament’s directorate. Additionally, Yael Fatiev, a goaltender from the Ontario Hockey Academy, made a remarkable impression with a .948 save percentage across four games, solidifying her team’s defensive efforts.
Bulgaria stepped onto the world stage for the first time in the Women’s World Championship in 2011. After 12 previous attempts, the team finally achieved a remarkable victory at the Skenderija Sports Arena in Sarajevo. This win marked a significant milestone, as it secured Bulgaria’s very first gold medal in the history of the Women’s World Championship.
