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Shine on Home Ice: Finland Captures Lahti WEHT Title

October 4, 2026 / / 0 Comments

The second leg of the 2026–27 Women’s Euro Hockey Tour (WEHT) took place from September 30 to October 3, 2026, at the Wemasto Areena in Lahti, Finland. Host nation Finland captured the tournament title in dominant fashion, capped off by a stellar performance on home ice.

Finland Dominates Lahti Stop to Claim Women’s Euro Hockey Tour Crown

Tournament Standings & Summary

  • 1st Place: Finland (Tournament Champions)

  • 2nd Place: Sweden

  • 3rd Place: Switzerland

  • 4th Place: Czechia

Key Match Recaps & Highlights

Finland Seals the Crown Against Sweden

  • Score: Finland 6, Sweden 1

  • The Story: In the decisive tournament finale, the Naisleijonat put on an offensive clinic against Sweden. Finland’s PWHL stars dictated the pace early, jumping out to a commanding lead built on multi-point nights from veteran leaders and special teams brilliance. Susanna Tapani notched a pair of goals, while legendary defender Jenni Hiirikoski masterminded the power play with three assists. Goaltender Sanni Ahola anchored the defense with 17 saves to seal the home-soil tournament victory.

Switzerland Edges Czechia in a Thriller for Third

  • Score: Switzerland 3, Czechia 2 (SO)

  • The Story: Czechia heavily outplayed the Swiss statistically (outshooting them 42–11) and broke an extended scoreless drought in the tournament with two quick goals in the third period by Ellen Jeřábková and Tereza Vanišová. Trailing late with their goaltender pulled, Switzerland mounted a frantic comeback with regulation-ending goals from Rahel Enzler and Sinja Leeman. After a scoreless overtime, Swiss netminder Andrea Brändli stood tall by stopping all five Czech shootout attempts, allowing Leoni Balzer’s lone shootout conversion to secure third place for Switzerland.

Opening Leg Highlights & Other Notable Results

  • Sweden 5, Switzerland 0: Sweden opened their Lahti campaign with a dismantling of the Swiss, fueled by an extraordinary hat-trick from 18-year-old debutant Tilde Grillfors and a 15-save shutout by Lisa Jönsson.

  • Finland 2, Czechia 0: Finland opened at home with a clean sheet against Czechia, getting a 21-save shutout from Sanni Ahola and two assists from Michelle Karvinen.

     

    Looking Ahead: The Lidl Hockey Games in Södertälje

    The next leg of the WEHT takes the series to Sweden for the Lidl Hockey Games, scheduled to run from October 28 to October 31, 2026, at the Scaniarinken in Södertälje, Sweden.

    • Significance: This tournament serves as a critical dress rehearsal and the final friendly test ahead of the upcoming 2026 IIHF Women’s World Championship. Coaches will be finalizing their systems and evaluating roster depth under high-stakes tournament conditions.

    • Match Schedule (Local Times):

      • Wednesday, October 28: Finland vs. Switzerland & Czechia vs. Sweden

      • Friday, October 30: Finland vs. Czechia & Sweden vs. Switzerland

      • Saturday, October 31: Switzerland vs. Czechia & Sweden vs. Finland

    Lahti Tournament Statistical Standouts

    The Lahti stop was highlighted by several dominant individual performances that shaped the tournament outcomes:

    • Tilde Grillfors (Sweden): The 18-year-old debutant stole headlines on opening day by erupting for a stunning hat-trick against Switzerland, instantly cementing her name as a rising force in the Damkronorna program.

    • Sanni Ahola (Finland): The Finnish backbone was immense on home ice, authoring a brilliant 21-save shutout against Czechia and anchoring the crease in the decisive win over Sweden.

    • Jenni Hiirikoski & Susanna Tapani (Finland): Veteran leadership carried the Naisleijonat to the title. Tapani provided the clutch goal-scoring touch, while Hiirikoski masterminded the power play from the blue line with elite playmaking vision.

    • Andrea Brändli (Switzerland): Delivered a tournament-saving performance in the bronze-decider against Czechia, turning away 42 shots through regulation and overtime before stopping all five attempts in the shootout.

Cancún to Host Pan American Ice Hockey Tournament in 2027

September 16, 2026 /

International ice hockey is coming to Cancún.

The Mexican resort city will host the Pan American Ice Hockey Tournament from February 24 to March 1, 2027, marking the first international ice hockey competition at the Cancún Ice Rink.

The Olympic-size facility, which opened in August 2024, will welcome at least nine national teams from across the Americas for the tournament, which is sanctioned by the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF).

The event returns after a 10-year absence. The previous edition was held in Mexico City in 2017.

Organizers say the tournament is intended to help develop ice hockey throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. Teams will be permitted to include players with family ties to the countries they represent, although at least half of each roster must consist of players born in that country.

Cancún’s tourism industry will also play a role, with participating teams expected to take part in activities around the region during their stay.

Admission is expected to be free, with organizers planning for capacity of approximately 1,500 spectators at the rink.

The Cancun Ice Rink will host the 2027 Pan American ice hockey tournament

Previous Champions

The men’s Pan American Ice Hockey Tournament was held annually from 2014 through 2017.

  • 2014: Canada Selects

  • 2015: Colombia

  • 2016: Colombia

  • 2017: Mexico A

Colombia won back-to-back championships in 2015 and 2016 before Mexico captured its first title in 2017.

The Women’s Pan American Ice Hockey Tournament was held annually from 2014 through 2017.

  • 2014: Canada A

  • 2015: Mexico

  • 2016: Mexico A

  • 2017: Mexico A

Mexico A won back-to-back championships in 2015 and 2016. Mexico also captured its first title in 2017.

The men’s Pan American Ice Hockey Tournament was held annually from 2014 through 2017. After a decade away, the tournament’s return to Mexico in 2027 will give emerging hockey nations across the Americas another opportunity to compete internationally — this time against the backdrop of one of Mexico’s most popular tourist destinations.

80 Years on Ice: Celebrating the Legacy of Russian Hockey

September 7, 2026 /

Celebrating Eight Decades of Glory: The 80th Anniversary of Russian Ice Hockey

For millions of fans across the country, ice hockey is far more than a sport. It is a national passion, a cultural institution, and a proud legacy shaped by generations of unforgettable players, coaches, and historic victories.

The 2026–27 season marks the 80th anniversary of Russian ice hockey, a remarkable milestone that celebrates eight decades of sporting excellence. To commemorate this historic occasion, the Russian Ice Hockey Federation has launched a nationwide program of events honoring the game’s history, traditions, and legendary figures.

From Bandy Roots to Hockey Excellence

Russia has a long and proud tradition of ice sports, with bandy—played with a ball on a large sheet of ice—deeply embedded in the country’s sporting culture.

The official beginning of Soviet ice hockey, then commonly known as “Canadian hockey,” dates to the winter of 1946, when the first matches of the USSR Championship were played. What began as a post-war sporting initiative soon developed into one of the world’s most distinctive and successful hockey traditions.

Under influential coaches such as Anatoly Tarasov and, later, Viktor Tikhonov, Soviet hockey developed a style that emphasized collective play over individual physical dominance. Exceptional skating, precise passing, tactical intelligence, creativity, and extraordinary team chemistry became its defining characteristics.

The result was a brand of hockey that was as disciplined as it was artistic—combining the structure of chess with the elegance of ballet.


The Rise of the “Red Machine”

By the 1950s, the Soviet national team had established itself as a formidable force on the international stage. The era gave rise to one of the most dominant dynasties in sporting history: the legendary “Red Machine.”

Unprecedented Dominance

From 1954 through 1991, the Soviet national team won a medal at every World Championship and Olympic tournament in which it participated. Its sustained success transformed Soviet hockey into a global powerhouse and established a standard of excellence that continues to influence the sport today.

Legends of the Game

Generations of extraordinary players helped define this golden era.

Goaltender Vladislav Tretyak, defenseman Vyacheslav Fetisov, and forwards such as Valeri Kharlamov, Sergei Makarov, and Igor Larionov became international icons. Their skill, intelligence, creativity, and commitment to team play helped redefine what could be achieved on the ice.

Rivalry and Global Recognition

Soviet hockey also became an important part of the sporting rivalry of the Cold War era. Historic encounters such as the 1972 Summit Series captured the attention of fans around the world, while the Soviet team’s defeat to the United States at the 1980 Olympic Games, famously remembered as the “Miracle on Ice,” became one of hockey’s most enduring moments.

Despite the political tensions surrounding these contests, the quality and artistry of Soviet players earned admiration far beyond the country’s borders.

As the political landscape changed in the late 1980s and early 1990s, an increasing number of Russian and Soviet players moved to the National Hockey League (NHL). Their arrival brought a new dimension of skill and creativity to North American hockey and helped accelerate the globalization of the sport.

Celebrating the 80th Anniversary

The 2026–27 anniversary campaign is intended not only to remember the past but also to connect generations of hockey fans and players.

Among the major elements of the celebration are:

  • A Unified Visual Identity: A specially designed commemorative logo serves as the centerpiece of the anniversary branding, appearing across professional leagues, youth hockey programs, and federation events.
  • Tributes to the Pioneers: Special ceremonies and initiatives recognize the coaches, players, referees, administrators, and countless volunteers whose dedication helped build and develop the sport.
  • Heritage Celebrations: Historic clubs, including CSKA Moscow, are using retro-themed events, historic imagery, and vintage uniforms to celebrate their place in the long history of Russian hockey.
  • Connecting Generations: Youth programs and community events are helping introduce a new generation of players and supporters to the stories, traditions, and achievements that shaped Russian hockey.

Looking Toward the Future

As Russian ice hockey enters its ninth decade, its challenge is not simply to preserve the past but to build upon it.

From youth rinks across Siberia to major arenas in Moscow and St. Petersburg, the fundamental values that have defined the sport for generations—discipline, creativity, teamwork, and determination—continue to inspire players and supporters alike.

The 80th anniversary is therefore about much more than gold medals, championship banners, and retired jerseys. It is a celebration of the people and traditions that made Russian hockey what it is today.

For eight decades, its story has been written on frozen ice, beneath the blades of countless skaters, and in the collective spirit of teams that learned to achieve more together than they ever could alone.

Eighty years later, the legacy continues—and the next chapter is waiting to be written.

Sweden Claims Top Spot as a New Era Begins: Women’s Euro Hockey Tour Opens in Kloten

August 26, 2026 /

The 2026–27 international women’s ice hockey season kicked off with high drama, intense competition, and a glimpse into a shifting European landscape as the Women’s Euro Hockey Tour (WEHT) descended on the SWISS Arena in Kloten, Switzerland.

With the World Championship looming on the horizon, the opening tournament in Kloten offered a fascinating testing ground. Featuring new coaching philosophies across multiple benches and a fierce battle for supremacy, it ultimately concluded with Sweden hoisting the tournament trophy after a stellar weekend.

Sweden beats Finland to win the first stage of WEHT.

Tournament Standings & Highlights

  • 1st Place: Sweden

  • 2nd/3rd/4th: host Switzerland,  Finland, and Czechia,  (in a tightly contested battle where all four teams secured at least one victory).

A Bold New Era for Host Switzerland Under Shannon Miller

For the host nation, the tournament marked the beginning of an exciting chapter under newly appointed head coach Shannon Miller. The Swiss squad showed remarkable grit, capturing hearts in Kloten with an energetic start.

  • The Openers: Switzerland opened their campaign in style with a convincing 4-2 victory over Sweden, followed by a thrilling 4-3 overtime win against Finland. Down late in regulation against the Finns, captain Lara Stalder delivered the clutch equalizer with just under two minutes remaining before setting up Alina Müller for the overtime winner.

  • The Finale & Injury Scare: The dream of a clean sweep on home ice was halted in the final match against Czechia, where the Swiss fell 1-2. Compounding the loss was an injury scare to Stalder—who led the team with three goals and two assists—following a collision late in the second period. Though precautionary, her absence stymied a late-game Swiss comeback that saw Leonie Balzer pull one back.

  • Despite the closing defeat, securing two tournament victories signaled a massive step forward for Swiss women’s hockey under Miller’s leadership.

Sweden Grabs the Crown

Sweden navigated the four-nation gauntlet with tactical discipline and resilience. After an initial stumble against the host Swiss, the Tre Kronor bounced back in commanding fashion. A textbook 2-0 shutout victory over Finland late in the weekend cemented Sweden’s defensive resolve and propelled them to the top of the Kloten standings, proving they will be a formidable force heading deeper into the Euro Hockey Tour season.

Czechia and Finland Show Elite Depth

  • Czechia experienced a roller-coaster week, opening with a tight loss to Finland but finishing strong. Their disciplined 2-1 victory over Switzerland in the finale showcased their ability to grind out low-scoring, high-stakes games.

  • Finland showcased their trademark speed and offensive flair early on, with veteran leadership anchoring special teams and pacing the tournament’s scoring charts before dropping a couple of tight decisions down the stretch.

Looking Ahead

With all four teams capturing at least one win, the Kloten tournament underscored how narrow the margins have become between Europe’s top four hockey nations. As teams adapt to new systems and integrate rising talent, the 2026–27 WEHT season promises to be the most competitive yet on the road to global competition.

European Cup of Nations: Germany and Slovakia Dominate Opening Round

August 24, 2026 /

The inaugural IIHF Women’s European Cup of Nations kicked off its opening round from August 20–22, 2026, serving as a structured international competition designed to maximize meaningful games during international breaks.

The tournament featured two main groups: Group A held in Füssen, Germany, and Group B in Bardejov, Slovakia. Both host nations successfully defended their home ice to capture first place in their respective groups.

Germany stands tall after opening weekend of Women’s European Cup of Nations

Group A (Füssen, Germany)

  • Host: Germany

  • Participating Nations: Germany, France, Hungary, Norway

  • Champion: Germany (Undefeated, 3–0)

Tournament Summary:

  • Germany claimed top spot with a narrow 1–0 victory over Hungary in their final game, courtesy of a late Lilli Welcke goal with just two minutes remaining. Head coach Jeff MacLeod utilized the tournament to test various line combinations and rotate three different goaltenders (with Lisa Hemmerle earning the shutout in the finale and Chiara Schultes winning the opener).

  • France finished second (2–1), securing a crucial 2–1 win over Hungary on Day 2 behind goals from Manon le Scodan and Clara Rozier, followed by a 5–1 victory against Norway.

  • Hungary took third place (1–2), highlighted by a dominant 8–0 rout of Norway to open the tournament, anchored by an Aniko Nemeth shutout and a four-point performance (1G, 3A) from returning forward Taylor Baker.

  • Norway finished fourth (0–3), though they put up a fight in a tightly contested 4–2 loss to Germany where Mathea Fischer and Emilie Kruse found the back of the net.

Group A Results:

  • Hungary 8, Norway 0

  • Germany 3, France 2

  • France 2, Hungary 1

  • Germany 4, Norway 2

  • France 5, Norway 1

  • Germany 1, Hungary 0

Group B (Bardejov, Slovakia)

  • Host: Slovakia

  • Participating Nations: Slovakia, Austria, Italy, Netherlands

  • Champion: Slovakia (3–0, cumulative score of 18–3)

Tournament Summary:

  • Slovakia dominated their group on home ice, outscoring opponents 18–3 behind a balanced attack where a dozen different players scored over the weekend. Elle Hartje led the charge offensively with 2 goals and 4 assists, while Barbora Sibertova netted 3 goals overall.

  • Austria secured second place despite bringing a relatively young/secondary roster. They bounced back from an opening loss to Slovakia by blanking the Netherlands 2–0 (shutout by Anja Adamitsch) and defeating Italy 3–1 (two goals from Lena Daubock).

  • Italy finished third, showcasing an inexperienced squad that managed a strong 3–1 opening-day win over the Netherlands, led by Aurora Abatangel (2 goals, 1 assist).

  • The Netherlands rounded out the group in fourth, gaining valuable developmental minutes at the international level.

Group B Results:

  • Italy 3, Netherlands 1

  • Slovakia 5, Austria 2

  • Austria 2, Netherlands 0

  • Slovakia 5, Italy 1

  • Austria 3, Italy 1

  • Slovakia 8, Netherlands 0

Four Champions, One Passion: The 2026 AmeriGol LATAM Cup

August 11, 2026 /

2026 Amerigol LATAM Cup Celebrates Growth, Competition and Diversity in Men’s and Women’s Hockey

The recently completed 2026 Amerigol LATAM Cup once again demonstrated the growing reach of ice hockey across Latin America, the Caribbean and the international hockey community. The tournament brought together teams representing countries, territories, heritage communities and emerging hockey programs, creating an exciting environment where competition, culture and the development of the sport came together.

Among the highlights of this year’s tournament were the four senior divisions: Men’s Division I, Men’s Division II, Women’s Division I and Women’s Division II. Each division produced its own champion while providing players and programs with an opportunity to compete at a high level and gain valuable international tournament experience.

The 2026 Amerigol LATAM Cup has proven once more that hockey transcends borders

Men’s Division I – Cuba Takes the Championship

Cuba captured the Men’s Division I championship, marking an important achievement for the Cuban hockey program.

The Division I competition brought together a strong group of teams and provided some of the tournament’s most competitive hockey. Cuba’s championship reflects the continued development of programs from countries where ice hockey is still an emerging sport.

For Cuba, the LATAM Cup represents an important opportunity to bring players together, build a stronger hockey identity and compete against international opposition. Winning the top men’s division is a significant milestone and gives the program valuable momentum heading into future competitions.

Men’s Division II – Italy Heritage Claims Gold

In Men’s Division II, Italy Heritage emerged as the tournament champion.

The championship highlighted the important role that heritage teams play within the LATAM Cup. These teams bring together players who share cultural and family connections to countries around the world while continuing to develop their hockey skills in North America.

Italy Heritage’s success demonstrates the competitive depth of Division II and the quality of hockey being played throughout the tournament. Their championship run was a fitting reward for a team that competed strongly throughout the event.

Women’s Division I – Caribbean Wins the Championship

The Caribbean captured the Women’s Division I championship, adding another major achievement to the region’s growing presence at the LATAM Cup.

The Caribbean women’s program has become an important part of the tournament’s development story. The team represents the continued growth of women’s hockey and provides players from Caribbean communities with an opportunity to compete, develop and represent their heritage on an international stage.

Winning Women’s Division I is a significant accomplishment and demonstrates the progress being made by women’s programs within the Caribbean hockey community.

The success is particularly meaningful because the LATAM Cup has consistently provided opportunities for women’s hockey programs from non-traditional hockey markets to establish themselves and gain valuable tournament experience.

Women’s Division II – First Nations Earns Gold

One of the most meaningful stories of the tournament came in Women’s Division II, where First Nations won the championship.

The First Nations women’s program represents Indigenous hockey communities and brings together players from across North America. Beyond the competition itself, the team provides an opportunity to celebrate Indigenous identity, culture, community and the role hockey can play in connecting generations.

The championship represents an important milestone for the program. It demonstrates that the team has developed not only as a community initiative but also as a highly competitive hockey program.

The First Nations team’s journey is particularly significant because the LATAM Cup provides a platform where hockey can be used to create connections and visibility for communities that may not always have opportunities to compete on an international stage.

Four Champions, One Common Goal

The four senior division champions — Cuba, Italy Heritage, Caribbean and First Nations — represent four very different hockey stories.

  • 🥇 Men’s Division I: Cuba
  • 🥇 Men’s Division II: Italy Heritage
  • 🥇 Women’s Division I: Caribbean
  • 🥇 Women’s Division II: First Nations

What connects these teams is more than their success on the ice. Each represents a community using hockey to build connections, develop players and create opportunities.

That is ultimately what makes the Amerigol LATAM Cup unique. The tournament is not limited to traditional hockey powers. It provides a platform for emerging nations, heritage teams and communities to compete and grow. Previous editions have included teams from countries and regions where hockey infrastructure is limited, illustrating the tournament’s broader role in expanding the sport.

Growing the Game

The LATAM Cup continues to play an important role in the development of hockey outside its traditional markets. For many participating teams, the tournament provides an opportunity to gain international experience that would otherwise be difficult to obtain.

The value of the event goes beyond wins and losses. Players build friendships, coaches exchange ideas, organizations establish relationships and communities gain greater visibility through the sport.

For women’s hockey in particular, the continued presence and success of teams such as Caribbean and First Nations demonstrates how opportunities for women are expanding within emerging hockey communities.

At the same time, the success of Cuba and Italy Heritage in the men’s divisions shows the depth and diversity of the men’s competition.

Looking Ahead

The conclusion of the 2026 Amerigol LATAM Cup is not simply the end of another tournament. It represents another step in the continued development of hockey throughout Latin America, the Caribbean and among international heritage and Indigenous communities.

The championships won by Cuba, Italy Heritage, Caribbean and First Nations will be remembered as important achievements for their respective programs. More importantly, the tournament continues to provide a pathway for players and teams to develop, compete and represent their communities with pride.

As the LATAM Cup continues to grow, its greatest success may ultimately be measured not only by the number of teams or championships, but by the number of new players, new programs and new hockey communities inspired to become part of the game.

The 2026 Amerigol LATAM Cup has once again shown that hockey has no borders — and that when opportunity is created, the game can grow in places where few ever imagined it possible.

2026 World Junior Summer Showcase Recap

August 4, 2026 /

The 2026 World Junior Summer Showcase took place from July 26 to August 1 at the WFCU Centre in Windsor, Ontario, serving as the first major evaluation camp ahead of the 2027 IIHF World Junior Championship. The week featured many of the top under-20 prospects from Canada, the United States, Sweden, and Finland, giving NHL organizations and national team staff an early look at players competing for roster spots.

Sweden put on a masterclass in team defense

Tournament Recap

Sweden (3-2, 9 Points)

Sweden recovered from an 0-2 start against the split U.S. squads to finish the showcase as arguably the tournament’s most complete team. Led by a structured defensive game, the Swedes rattled off three consecutive victories, including a convincing 5-2 win over Finland in their finale. During that three-game run, Sweden surrendered just seven goals while receiving strong performances throughout its lineup.

United States (3-2, 9 Points)

The United States showcased arguably the deepest collection of offensive talent at the event, with American players dominating the scoring leaders. Although the primary U.S. squad suffered setbacks against Finland and Sweden, the Americans closed the showcase in dominant fashion with a 7-2 victory over host Canada, finishing the week on a high note.

Finland (2-3, 6 Points)

Finland battled offensive inconsistency throughout the week, averaging a tournament-low 2.6 goals per game, but remained competitive thanks to disciplined defensive play and outstanding goaltending. The highlight came in a hard-fought 3-2 victory over the United States, with their netminder stealing the spotlight.

Canada (1-2, 3 Points)

It was a difficult showcase for Canada on home ice. Aside from a 5-3 win over Finland, the Canadians struggled defensively, allowing an average of five goals per game. The tournament concluded with a disappointing 7-2 loss to the United States, leaving plenty of questions heading into the next phase of World Junior evaluations.

Top Performers

Ethan Wyttenbach (F, USA | Quinnipiac | Calgary Flames Prospect)

Wyttenbach emerged as one of the showcase’s most dangerous offensive players. Skating for multiple U.S. lineups, he produced at an elite level, piling up points with his exceptional vision, creativity, and finishing ability. His offensive instincts consistently put opposing defenses under pressure.

Cole Reschny (C, Canada | Calgary Flames)

One of Canada’s brightest performers, Reschny continued his transition to center with an impressive all-around game. He consistently drove possession through the middle of the ice, handled pressure with confidence, and won battles in traffic while creating scoring opportunities for his teammates.

Filip Ekberg (RW, Sweden | Carolina Hurricanes)

Ekberg was a driving force behind Sweden’s offensive success, recording three goals and five points while forming a dangerous partnership with Viktor Klingsell. His speed, puck skills, and effectiveness on the power play made him a constant scoring threat.

Patrik Kerkola (G, Finland)

Kerkola delivered one of the showcase’s best individual performances, stopping 34 of 36 shots in Finland’s upset victory over the United States. His calm presence, positioning, and timely saves strengthened his case to become Finland’s starting goaltender for the 2027 World Juniors.

William Håkansson (D, Sweden | Carolina Hurricanes)

Håkansson anchored Sweden’s blue line with a mature, shutdown style of play. At 6-foot-4, he combined size, positioning, and poise under pressure, playing a key role in Sweden’s three-game winning streak while limiting opponents’ scoring chances.

Mikey Berchild (F, USA | USNTDP)

Berchild was one of the Americans’ most dynamic forwards, using elite speed and high-end playmaking ability to consistently create offense. Alongside Wyttenbach, he helped fuel one of the tournament’s most productive attacks and established himself as one of the event’s standout performers.

Global Passion Meets South Florida Ice: 2026 Amerigol LATAM Cup Returns to Coral Springs

July 31, 2026 /

When hockey fans think of the sport’s biggest stages, cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Boston often come to mind. But for nine days this summer, the spotlight shifts to South Florida, where one of the world’s most unique international hockey tournaments takes center stage.

The 2026 Amerigol LATAM Cup officially returns to the Florida Panthers IceDen in Coral Springs from August 1–9, bringing together players from around the globe for the tournament’s eighth edition. What began as a celebration of Latin American hockey has evolved into one of the premier international showcases for players from emerging and non-traditional hockey nations.

LATAM Cup Kicks Off in Coral Springs

Record-Breaking Growth

This year’s tournament is the largest in Amerigol LATAM Cup history, featuring approximately 1,500 players competing on 68 teams throughout the week.

While countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, and several Caribbean nations remain the foundation of the tournament, the event’s reach now extends far beyond Latin America. Teams representing Algeria, Armenia, Egypt, Israel, Lebanon, Pakistan, the Philippines, and First Nations communities will also compete, highlighting hockey’s expanding global footprint.

“Welcoming 68 teams and approximately 1,500 players from around the world demonstrates how much the tournament and the game of hockey continue to grow within non-traditional hockey communities,” said Juan Carlos Otero, Founder and President of the Amerigol International Hockey Association.

Two Tournament Phases

With record participation, organizers have divided the competition into two action-packed segments.

Tier One (August 1–4) features the Men’s Senior (35+) Division, Women’s Division II, and youth divisions including U16 Select, U14 Select, and U12 Select.

Tier Two (August 5–9) showcases the Men’s Division I and II championships, Women’s Division I, and the U12 Legacy Division.

The expanded schedule also introduces several exciting additions for 2026, including a Skills Competition, a sled hockey showcase, and the inaugural LATAM Cup International All-Star Games, set for Wednesday, August 5.

Growing the Game Together

The Amerigol LATAM Cup continues to thrive thanks to strong support from the Florida Panthers, the National Hockey League (NHL), and the National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA) through the Industry Growth Fund. This year, the Florida Panthers Foundation also contributed $20,000 to help expand community outreach and promote greater accessibility and inclusion throughout the event.

“For the eighth consecutive year, we’re proud to host the Amerigol LATAM Cup at Panthers IceDen,” said John Colombo, Vice President of the Florida Panthers Foundation & Community Relations. “This tournament is a true celebration of culture and the continued growth of hockey across Latin America, Caribbean communities, and beyond.”

Fans Welcome

All tournament games are free and open to the public at both the Florida Panthers IceDen in Coral Springs and Palm Beach Skate Zone, giving local fans the opportunity to experience international competition up close.

For supporters unable to attend in person, every game will be streamed live, allowing fans across Latin America, the Caribbean, and participating nations around the world to follow their teams throughout the tournament.

As the puck drops on another historic edition of the Amerigol LATAM Cup, one thing is clear: hockey’s future is becoming increasingly global. From South Florida to countries where the sport continues to grow, the tournament serves as a powerful reminder that passion for hockey knows no borders.

Challenger Series 2026: International Hockey Continues to Grow in Chicago and Montreal

July 15, 2026 /

The 2026 Challenger Series once again demonstrated that international ice hockey is thriving well beyond the sport’s traditional powerhouses. Held over two tournament weekends—May 7–10 in Chicago, Illinois, and July 9–12 in Montreal, Quebec—the series brought together heritage and developing national teams in an exciting showcase of skill, pride, and international competition. The men’s competition featured Greece Heritage Team, Jamaica, Lebanon, and Puerto Rico, while the women’s division expanded with the addition of the Greek Heritage Team, joining Lebanon, Puerto Rico, APNA, and host team Chicago.

Unlike a single-elimination tournament, the Challenger Series rewarded consistency across both events. Teams accumulated points throughout the series before concluding their campaigns in Montreal, where every game carried championship implications.

The 2026 Challenger Series showcased that the love for hockey truly transcends boundaries.

Chicago Sets the Stage

The opening weekend at Fifth Third Arena delivered everything expected from an international tournament: fast-paced action, physical play, and several high-scoring contests. The men’s division featured a full round-robin schedule among the four participating nations, while the women’s division expanded from previous years, reflecting the rapid growth of women’s international heritage hockey.

The quality of play immediately demonstrated how much these programs have developed. Many athletes brought experience from professional, collegiate, junior, and European leagues, creating a level of competition that exceeded expectations and highlighted the growing depth of talent representing emerging hockey nations.

Montreal Crowns the Champions

The series concluded in Montreal, one of hockey’s most historic cities, providing a fitting stage for the championship weekend. With points carrying over from Chicago, every matchup had a direct impact on the final standings.

After two outstanding tournaments, the Greek Heritage Team emerged as champions in both the men’s and women’s divisions, showcasing balanced offensive production, disciplined defensive play, and remarkable consistency throughout the series.

Men’s Division

The men’s tournament featured four competitive national programs battling through six games each over the course of the series.

The Greek Heritage Team finished atop the standings with a 5-1 record, collecting 15 points while leading the tournament with 45 goals scored. Their balanced attack and timely defensive performances earned them the Challenger Series championship.

Jamaica produced another strong international showing, finishing second with 9 points after an even 3-3 record. The final match featured the two leading teams, with The Greek Heritage Team emerging victorious over Jamaica with a score of 10-6, thereby securing the championship title.

Final Men’s Standings

TeamsWLOTWOTLGFGAPTS
Greek Heritage
Team		5100453215
Jamaica330030309
Puerto Rico230125317
Lebanon141031385

Women’s Division

The women’s competition continued its impressive growth, welcoming additional teams and providing more opportunities for athletes to compete internationally.

The Greek Heritage Team mirrored the men’s success by finishing first with a 5-1 record and 15 points. Greece combined a dynamic offense with outstanding defensive play, allowing only 18 goals while scoring 32.

Lebanon finished second after collecting 9 points and securing a place in the final. The championship game showcased the top two teams, and The Greek Heritage Team came out on top, defeating Lebanon with a score of 9-3 to claim the title.

Final Women’s Standings

TeamsWLOTWOTLGFGAPTS
Greek HT5100321815
Lebanon221120259
Chicago20011357
APNA111013135
Puerto Rico060015240

The Challenger Series has quickly become much more than a hockey tournament. It provides meaningful international competition for players representing their heritage, strengthens relationships between developing hockey nations, and creates opportunities for athletes who may not otherwise have the chance to compete on the international stage.

With every season, the event continues to grow in both participation and quality. The expansion of the women’s division, the increasing competitiveness of every game, and the continued commitment of participating federations demonstrate that heritage hockey has become an important part of the international hockey landscape.

Looking Ahead

As another successful Challenger Series comes to a close, anticipation is already building for next season. New teams are expected to join the competition and the level of play continues to rise each year.

The 2026 Challenger Series proved once again that the passion for hockey knows no borders. From Chicago to Montreal, players proudly represented their countries and heritage, creating memorable moments and further advancing the growth of international ice hockey.

Swiss Hockey Enters New Era with Berra’s Retirement and Miller’s Appointment

July 11, 2026 /

Swiss Ice Hockey is ushering in a new chapter for its national programs, as longtime goaltender Reto Berra has retired from international competition while the women’s national team welcomes a new head coach.

A new chapter for Swiss hockey: Celebrating Reto Berra’s legendary 15-year career while welcoming Shannon Miller as the new head coach of the women’s national team.

Berra Calls Time on International Career

After more than a decade representing Switzerland on the international stage, veteran netminder Reto Berra has announced his retirement from the national team following the 2026 IIHF World Championship.

The 39-year-old described the tournament as the “perfect ending” to his international career, bringing the curtain down on a remarkable run that included three Olympic Winter Games and 12 IIHF World Championships.

The 39-year-old described the tournament as the “perfect ending” to his international career, bringing the curtain down on a remarkable run that included three Olympic Winter Games and 12 IIHF World Championships.

Since making his debut during the 2010-11 season, Berra appeared in 15 major international tournaments and played a key role in helping Switzerland earn four World Championship silver medals. He said the decision was motivated by the physical demands of the game and his desire to create opportunities for the next generation of Swiss goaltenders.

Miller to Lead Swiss Women’s Program

Meanwhile, Swiss Ice Hockey has named Canadian coach Shannon Miller as the new head coach of the women’s national team.

Miller has signed a contract through the summer of 2029 and will officially begin her tenure on August 1. One of the most accomplished coaches in women’s hockey, she is best known for leading the University of Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs from 1999 to 2015, building one of the sport’s premier collegiate programs.

Melanie Häfliger, Head of Women’s Hockey at Swiss Ice Hockey, praised Miller’s appointment, highlighting her international experience, championship pedigree, and proven ability to develop successful teams over the long term.

With one respected veteran stepping away and an accomplished coach taking over behind the bench, Swiss hockey begins a new chapter focused on building for the future.

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