Last played for in 2010-11, The Northern League is back and as always will feature Teams from both Scotland and England.
The competition will feature the following teams: Edinburgh Capitals (SNL), Kirkcaldy Kestrels (SNL), Kilmarnock Thunder (SNL) and Blackburn Hawks (NIHL)
One Home fixture & One Away fixture format, with 3 points for an outright win, 2 points for an overtime win (3 on 3 golden goal or penalty shots) 1 point for an overtime loss and Zero points for a regular time loss.
All four clubs have really embraced the concept and with it the vision to also grow the competition and the sport of Ice Hockey in general, and take it to a newer, wider audience in both Scotland and England, what a better rivalry to reignite than between the “Old Enemies” .
The competition starts on Sunday 10th September when Kilmarnock Thunder host fellow SNL side Kirkcaldy Kestrels.
Ollie Lomax, Hawks Assistant Coach had the following to say:
“We as a coaching staff are extremely looking forward to taking the boys north of the border to compete in the re-vamped Northern League, as well as extending a warm Blackburn welcome to the three Scottish clubs involved.” “My favourite games to play in were always the games up in Fife, Dundee, Paisley, Dumfries etc. such a baptism of fire and a battle right from the first face off to the final buzzer. You always knew you’d been in a game on Monday morning.” “We have to congratulate our own ownership group along with Kirkcaldy Kestrels, Edinburgh Capitals & Kilmarnock Thunder in getting together to make this competition happen. It also rewards our loyal fan base with more home games & opportunities for us to take on different tests.” “Ultimately it’s another chance for us as a club to win a trophy. The boys have been looking in great shape & have clearly looked after themselves this summer. We are looking forward to fighting on all fronts this season, the trips north are going to be a very big part of that.”
“We firmly believe that this is a great opportunity for all of our guys young and old to gain a valuable experience, something we know will stand them well as we all move the club forward, and we very much accept, and look forward to the challenge, it’s England v Scotland, pride is at stake, let’s get it on!”
“See you all back in the rink very soon, back to work Thursday’s for the boys.