A Highland ice hockey team has found a way to keep playing even during the warm summer months.
Inverness Highlanders Junior Ice Hockey Club provides weekly training and for young people aged 5-18 in Inverness. The club applied to the Parklands Pathway Fund for funding to purchase 100 synthetic ice tiles to allow them to train off-season when their main training base, Inverness Ice Centre, is closed during the summer.
The tiles are portable, easy to set up and install in a variety of locations both indoors and outdoors. This allows the club to run a variety of off-season activities that allow for skill development, and keep players connected with each other and the club.
Katy Kitchingham, Chairman of Inverness Highlanders Junior Ice Hockey Club, said: “There has been junior ice hockey in Inverness for over 30 years and it’s really important for our club to be able to keep up our momentum during the period the ice rink has to close. These synthetic ice tiles help us do that, and next season we hope to be using them from the end of March right through to September when our on-ice sessions begin again. Thank you to Parklands Pathway Fund for supporting our club.”
The Parklands Pathway Fund was set up by care group Parklands Care Homes to support community projects that create a lasting legacy. Eligible projects include those involving older people, education, sport and wellbeing, young people and sustainability.
Ron Taylor, managing director of Parklands Care Homes, said: “We are delighted to support Inverness Highlanders Junior Ice Hockey Club in their efforts to maintain training and team spirit during the off-season. Their commitment to fostering young talent and promoting inclusivity in sport aligns perfectly with our mission to support community well-being and youth development.”
Parklands has invited the club to visit its care homes in Fortrose and Muir of Ord, offering residents the opportunity to experience the sport.
Anyone interested in joining the club should email: newstartshighlander1@gmail.com