A successful Great Britain junior camp came to a conclusion yesterday in Sheffield with over 200 youngsters – male and female – attending over the three days.
The camp began on Thursday with two on-ice practices each for GB U18s Women and GB U16s Women at Ice Sheffield, as well as off-ice activities including strength and conditioning.
Friday saw GB U20s, GB U18s and GB U16s take to the ice twice, while all three sides returned on Saturday for their final sessions of the camp.
The youngsters also had gym fitness sessions over the road at the English Institute for Sport.
There were off-ice workshops and two experienced GB players – who both played in the junior system – spoke about their experiences of playing for their country.
GB Women’s captain Saffron Allen met with the youngsters on Thursday while GB Men’s forward Liam Kirk – who this week agreed a three-year NHL entry-level contract with Arizona Coyotes – was the special guest on Friday.
National Development Head Coach, Tony Hand, said: “I’d like to thank all the coaches, support staff and managers for such a successful camp.
“So many players have been out of action for over a year because of the pandemic and it was great to get everyone back on the ice.
“The camp gave us a great insight on how we move forward over the coming weeks and months.
“It was an excellent start to preparations for the upcoming season of international ice hockey.
“I’d like to thank Ice Hockey UK for giving this major camp the green light and throwing their support behind it.
“The most important thing in all of this is the young players and it was vital to get them back to a rink.
“The coaches and staff now have some great knowledge to take away with them to prepare for upcoming international season.”