Aviemore's new ice hockey team celebrates a remarkable championship win against all odds.
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The Aviemore Avalanche, a newly formed ice hockey team, has made headlines by clinching the SIH Scottish Bowl championship in their inaugural season. Against all odds, this remarkable achievement has not only brought glory to the town of Aviemore but also reignited interest in ice hockey within the community.
Historic victory against Dundee Wildcats
In a thrilling final, the Avalanche delivered a stunning 6-1 victory over the Dundee Wildcats, who were considered the favorites. This decisive win capped off a weekend of impressive performances, where the team remained undefeated throughout the tournament.
Their journey to the championship included victories over the Aberdeen Predators, Hamilton Hawks, and Glasgow Mustangs, showcasing a blend of experience and youthful talent.
A mix of ages fuels success
The success of the Avalanche can be attributed to a unique mix of players, including veterans from the original Aviemore Blackhawks and Aviemore Blues, who played in the 1970s and 1980s. Notable players like Kevin Bremner, Stevie Booth, and Kenny MacDonald, all in their 50s and 60s, brought invaluable experience to the team. This blend of seasoned players and younger talent has created a dynamic team spirit that was evident throughout the tournament.
The need for a new ice rink
Despite their recent success, the Avalanche faces challenges, particularly the lack of a proper ice rink in Aviemore. The town’s previous main rink was closed and demolished in the late 1990s, leaving the team to practice in a smaller venue known as “the wee rink.” Opened in 2021, this facility is limited in size and capacity, making it difficult to accommodate the growing interest in ice hockey and other ice sports.
Player-coach Kevin Bremner emphasized the importance of a new, purpose-built ice rink for the community. He stated, “With it being a winter resort, and with the number of tourists we get, it would be well used.” The team hopes that their championship win will highlight the need for a larger, more efficient facility that can support not only ice hockey but also figure skating and curling.
Community support and future aspirations
The Aviemore and Glenmore Community Trust has been proactive in addressing the challenges faced by local ice sports. Their successful fundraising campaign raised nearly £200,000 to purchase an ice rink and a marquee for housing it. The community’s commitment to reinvesting profits into the rink aims to establish a sustainable ice sports facility in Aviemore.
As the Avalanche looks to build on their recent success, they are determined to advocate for a new ice rink that meets the needs of the community. Bremner expressed optimism about the future, stating, “We could then maybe get a system installed that runs fairly cheaply.” With the support of the community and the momentum from their championship victory, the Avalanche is poised to make a lasting impact on the local ice hockey scene.
