England Ice Hockey is pleased to welcome back Hockeyhound for a third consecutive season, with the Billingham-based business extending its sponsorship to three NIHL challenge cup competitions for 2026/27.

Having supported the Hockeyhound Challenge Cup in the Laidler division since its introduction in 2024/25, owners Kieran Wrench and Ash Lavery are broadening their commitment this season to include the Britton Challenge Cup and the Eddie Joseph Memorial Cup. The latter will retain its name, preserving its tribute to a much-loved figure in British ice hockey.

Ice Hockey UK Interim CEO Tim Bratton recently visited Kieran and Ash to thank them personally for their continued support and recognise their contribution to the sport.

The expanded partnership builds on a relationship with regional ice hockey that stretches beyond the Challenge Cup. Hockeyhound supported the NIHL’s 2023 play-off events, including the Wilkinson Finals at Alexandra Palace, before backing the new North 2 Challenge Cup the following year.

For Hockeyhound, supporting these competitions continues a commitment rooted in its local skating community. The business opened at Billingham Forum Ice Arena in 2019 and expanded its shop in 2024, supplying equipment for ice hockey, figure skating and recreational skating. Its growing involvement in the NIHL takes that support to clubs and players further afield.

England Ice Hockey thanks Kieran, Ash and everyone at Hockeyhound for their continued backing and looks forward to another season of competitive cup hockey.