Youth Pan-Pacific Series Wraps Up with Outstanding Performances and Exciting Future Plans 🏒

The Youth Pan-Pacific Series has concluded, delivering an exciting showcase of emerging ice hockey talent from across the region. Hosted at IceHQ in the northern suburbs of Melbourne, the tournament brought together teams from Australia (Gold and Green), Hong Kong, China, and New Zealand for a week of high-energy competition, skill development, and international friendship.

Across eight thrilling games, fans were treated to quality hockey and spirited battles. Hong Kong, China proved dominant throughout the Series, finishing undefeated and claiming the Gold Medal with a 5–2 victory over Australia Gold in the final. Australia Green secured Bronze, overcoming New Zealand 6–1 in a strong medal game performance.

🏆 Game Results Snapshot

• Game 1: Australia Gold def. Australia Green 7–2 (MVP: Maxwell McNamara)

• Game 2: Hong Kong, China def. New Zealand 7–0 (MVP: Luke Zhang Ho Yim)

• Game 3: Hong Kong, China def. Australia Gold 5–1 (MVP: Lung Yin Chit)

• Game 4: Australia Green def. New Zealand 4–3 (MVP: Samual Byran)

• Game 5: Hong Kong, China def. Australia Green 4–1 (MVP: Ryan Sucher)

• Game 6: Australia Gold def. New Zealand 5–2 (MVP: Noah Tod)

• Bronze Medal Game: Australia Green def. New Zealand 6–1 (MVP: Joey Binetti)

• Gold Medal Game: Hong Kong, China def. Australia Gold 5–2 (MVP: Jasper Fan)

🌟 Tournament MVP Awards

• Team Hong Kong, China MVP: Luke Zhang Ho Yim

• Team Australia Gold MVP: Maxwell McNamara

• Team Australia Green MVP: Ryan Sucher

• Team New Zealand MVP: Lincoln Gurnell

• Goalie of the Tournament: Rexton Chui (HKC)

These individual honours reflected the high standard of play, leadership, and sportsmanship shown throughout the Series.

“The Youth Pan-Pacific Series is a fantastic opportunity to bring young athletes together from across the region to compete, connect and grow,” said Adam Woolnough, General Manager of Ice Hockey Australia. “The quality of hockey, the spirit between teams, and the professionalism of everyone involved made this year’s event a huge success. We’re excited to continue building on this foundation in 2026 and beyond.”

I also want to extend our sincere thanks to New Zealand Ice Hockey and the Hong Kong, China Ice Hockey Association for their support and collaboration. Their commitment to youth development and international partnership plays a huge role in the growth of the game across our region.”

🚀 Looking Ahead to 2026

Planning is already underway for the next Youth Pan-Pacific Series in 2026, with exciting developments on the horizon. Participating countries will explore new host locations within the Asia–Pacific region, with discussions focused on increasing participation and preparation for International Ice Hockey Federation World Championships.

The age group structure will also be reviewed to ensure the tournament continues to support long-term athlete development pathways. There is strong interest from additional countries to join the Series, further expanding the competitive field and strengthening international ties through sport.

🙏 Acknowledgements

Ice Hockey Australia extends its sincere thanks to Andrew Erzen, Tournament Director, for his outstanding leadership and organisation in delivering a smooth and successful event. Special recognition also goes to Emma Poynton, Head of Medical, for her exceptional support and care of all athletes and staff throughout the week.

Their contributions were instrumental in ensuring the Series ran at a professional standard both on and off the ice.

The 2025 Youth Pan-Pacific Series has highlighted the power of international youth sport to foster competition, connection, and growth. A huge congratulations to all players, staff, on and off-ice officials, and supporters who made this year’s event such a success.