Three Fife Flyers players are scheduled to appear in the Scotland Ice Hockey Cup, claimed to be one of the most significant ice hockey events ever staged in the United Kingdom.
Canadian-born trio Milan Lucic and Garet Hunt, plus Simon Despres, are listed to ice in The National Ice Hockey League (NHL) Alumni USA v Canada Series is coming to Murrayfield, Edinburgh, from April 20 to 27.
And this is the first time that professional players who have appeared in the NHL will have taken to the ice in an exhibition series.
A spokesman said: “The USA vs Canada rivalry is one of the most celebrated in global ice hockey. Scottish fans will experience that passion and pride live.”
Fans can expect legendary former NHL players on the ice, exclusive fan experiences, meet-and-greets and VIP events.
The spokesman added: “This is more than a tournament, it is a celebration of hockey heritage, bringing together generations of fans to witness icons of the game in an electric international setting.”
The event, it is claimed, will further elevate Scotland’s growing presence on the international hockey stage and inspire the next generation of players across the country and, to that end, the NHL Alumni players will host a free youth hockey clinic on Sunday prior to Game 3.
This will give young athletes a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn directly from former National Hockey League legends and the clinic will focus on skill development, sportsmanship, and sharing the passion of the game.
Robert Aldridge, Edinburgh’s Lord Provost, said: “This is shaping up to be the biggest ice hockey series staged in the UK and we’re proud to welcome everyone to the Scotland Ice Hockey Cup for what promises to be a fantastic match-up.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for fans to see legends of the game compete here in the capital. With the free youth hockey clinic being hosted alongside the event, I’m sure the next generation will be inspired to grow and strengthen the ice hockey community even further.”
ON THE BAWL: Garet Hunt shouting instructions during a recent Fife Flyers game. Picture courtesy of the Elite League
