Great Britain’s U20 side have arrived in Budapest, Hungary, for their IIHF Division 1B World Championship which begins today.
GB face off in the final game of the opening day against Slovenia (8pm local, 7pm UK) as they look to build on the bronze medal won in this division in Megeve 12 months ago.
Martin Grubb has taken on the head coach role after Tom Watkins pulled out with club commitments, while there have been some late roster changes ahead of the team flying out of Luton on Saturday afternoon. The squad arrived in Budapest and headed straight to the Jegpalota Ice Centre for accrediation and their first on-ice practice.
Coach Martin Grubb said: “It was good to skate for almost an hour after the travel day and we go again in the morning for our pre-game routine.
“From my position of course I’d rather Tom Watkins was here as this is his team and him and his staff have worked all year to get to this point.
“However I’m happy to step up and know that with the support of Slava Koulikov and Paul Heavey plus the players and other staff we can have a successful week.”
GB do have one injury concern as forward Cole Shudra faces a late fitness test.
Great Britain play Slovenia on Sunday then go against hosts Hungary, Poland, Italy and Ukraine in the six team tournament. For supporters travelling to support the team in Budapest, admission to the games at Jegpalota Ice Centre is free of charge.
Games from the tournament are also being webcast online at www.sportstream.hu. The live stream should appear on the homepage just before the game starts.
Supporters can also follow the action from Budapest by following @TeamGBicehockey on Twitter and Instagram. There will also be reports and reaction on Ice Hockey UK TV & Radio in association with McDonalds.