Great Britain Women’s netminder Ella Howard says the recent IIHF Goaltending Development Camp in Slovakia was an “unreal” experience.

The netminders underwent on and off-ice education and training at the camp in the town of Hamuliakovo, with the focus on top goaltenders and goalie coaches from Africa, Asia, Europe and Latin America.

GB Women’s netminding coach Dave Clancy was one of the coaches while Jason Ellery – otherwise known as Taff – was part of the team of experienced staff as lead equipment manager.

The goalies had the chance to learn from experienced coaches and mentors, as well as former Olympians Valentina Lizana-Wallner, Kim Martin-Hasson, Meeri Raisanen, Florence Schelling and Zuzana Tomcikova.

“It was unreal to train alongside and receive feedback from my idols,” said Ella.

“I made many lifelong friends from around the world which I hope to keep in touch with.

“The coaches and off-ice staff provided me with lots of advice which I can use in my own training.

“I would like to thank the staff at the camp – and also the staff who provided me with this opportunity.”

Sixteen-year-old Ella was part of the bronze medal-winning GB Under-18s squad at this year’s U18 Women’s World Championship Division I Group B in Dumfries.

She was named netminder of the tournament, GB’s player of the tournament and the GB Supporters’ Club player of the tournament.