Special Update: Hong Kong, China Joins Youth Pan-Pacific Ice Hockey Series

Ice Hockey Australia (IHA) and Ice Hockey New Zealand (Ice Hockey NZ) are thrilled to announce an exciting development for the upcoming youth international competition. Hong Kong, China Ice Hockey Association will officially join the Series, which will now be known as the Youth Pan-Pacific Ice Hockey Series, taking place at IceHQ in Melbourne, Australia, from October 10 to 13, 2025. The final day, October 13, has been set aside for a full day of finals between the four competing teams.

The addition of Hong Kong brings a new level of excitement and anticipation to the event, reinforcing the growing interest and investment in this crucial age bracket. This expanded format will now feature four teams: two from Australia, one from New Zealand, and one from Hong Kong. Each team will consist of 15-18 skaters and 2 goaltenders, selected from their respective national championships in July 2025. Eligible players will be born in 2010 and 2011.

This landmark Series continues to focus on national and regional player development, with a strong emphasis on transitioning young athletes from emerging into the Talent Identification (TID) phase. It also offers valuable growth opportunities for coaches, team staff, and support personnel.

The participation of Hong Kong, China underscores the rising profile of youth ice hockey in the Asia-Pacific region. Both IHA and Ice Hockey NZ have also received expressions of interest from other significant Asian countries, which will be explored for future editions of the Youth Pan-Pacific Ice Hockey Series.

Quotes:

“Welcoming Hong Kong, China to the Series marks a fantastic milestone for youth ice hockey in our region," said Ryan O’Handley, President of Ice Hockey Australia. "The rebranded Youth Pan-Pacific Series reflects our shared vision of expanding development pathways and building international friendships through sport."

"The inclusion of Hong Kong, China adds another exciting dimension to what is already a highly anticipated event," said Andy Mills, President of Ice Hockey NZ. "We look forward to further regional engagement in the coming years."

“We are honoured to join the Youth Pan-Pacific Ice Hockey Series and be part of this exciting new chapter for youth development in our region," said Sherman Chan, President of the Hong Kong, China Ice Hockey Association. "This platform will not only challenge our young athletes on the ice but also foster international friendships and inspire growth in our hockey community".

Event Details:

·       What: Inaugural Youth Pan-Pacific Ice Hockey Series

·       When: October 10-13, 2025

·       Where: IceHQ, Melbourne, Australia

The Youth Pan-Pacific Ice Hockey Series is set to be a dynamic and inspiring showcase of emerging talent across the region. Stay tuned for more updates as we count down to this landmark event!