Tag: EliteHockey Ligaen

Stavanger set for World Girls’ Hockey Weekend

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Stavanger will mark World Girls’ Ice Hockey Weekend on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 October with a tournament for girls’ teams from Ju8 to Ju12.

The regional event is being organised with the Jenteutviklingsprosjektet, a girls’ development project. It will focus on achievement, enjoyment of the game and community, while players from Elite Kvinner will also attend to meet the young participants.

World Girls’ Ice Hockey Weekend is an annual international occasion in which clubs around the world invite girls to play, try and celebrate ice hockey. The Stavanger programme is intended to underline that hockey is a sport for everyone and to provide an inclusive, social setting that encourages girls to continue playing.

Key Facts

  • World Girls’ Ice Hockey Weekend will be marked in Stavanger on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 October.
  • The regional programme includes a tournament for girls’ teams in the Ju8 to Ju12 age groups.
  • The event is being arranged in collaboration with the Jenteutviklingsprosjektet.
  • The tournament will emphasise achievement, enjoyment and community.
  • Every player will receive a participation diploma.
  • Some Elite Kvinner players will attend and meet the girls.
  • Invited teams must register through Profixio; fixtures and practical information will be sent to registered teams after the deadline.
  • Project manager Malin Kristensen is the contact for questions about the event.

IHM Discussion

The weekend places participation at the centre of the programme rather than presenting the tournament solely as a competitive event. By bringing Ju8 to Ju12 teams together, organisers are creating an early opportunity for girls to play in a dedicated setting with peers from the same age range.

The presence of Elite Kvinner players adds a direct connection between young participants and the women’s game. Alongside the participation diplomas, that element supports the event’s stated aim of making the environment welcoming and enjoyable for girls who may be at the beginning of their hockey experience.

Why It Matters

World Girls’ Ice Hockey Weekend is built around access to the sport. For Stavanger’s young players, the tournament offers organised ice time, a social hockey environment and contact with players from Elite Kvinner. The stated objective is to help girls feel they belong in hockey and want to remain involved.

Mini Q&A

When is World Girls’ Ice Hockey Weekend taking place in Stavanger?

The Stavanger event is scheduled for Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 October.

Who can take part in the tournament?

The tournament is for girls’ teams in the Ju8 to Ju12 age groups.

What will participants receive?

All players will receive a participation diploma.

What Comes Next

The Stavanger tournament is scheduled for 17 and 18 October. Registered teams will receive the match schedule and practical information after the registration deadline.

Oilers and Stjernen set for Thursday clash

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Oilers will host Stjernen at DNB Arena on Thursday in an EliteHockey Ligaen meeting between teams sitting next to one another in the early standings.

Stjernen are fifth after seven league rounds, while Oilers are immediately behind them. The visitors arrive after taking the bonus point by beating Lillehammer in a shoot-out at Eidsiva Arena. Oilers, meanwhile, suffered a loss in Hamar at the weekend after putting together three straight victories.

Face-off is scheduled for 18.30, with arena doors opening at 17.00. Oilers will issue their team-status update on game day.

Key Facts

  • Stjernen are fifth in the EliteHockey Ligaen table after seven rounds, with Oilers one place behind.
  • Oilers lost in Hamar at the weekend after a run of three consecutive wins.
  • Stjernen earned the bonus point when they beat Lillehammer in a shoot-out at Eidsiva Arena.
  • The teams meet at DNB Arena on Thursday, with face-off scheduled for 18.30.
  • Oilers will provide a team-status update on game day.
  • Johannes Løkkeberg and Elias Vatne are scheduled to meet supporters and sign match programmes outside the Oilers shop on Thursday.

IHM Discussion

The fixture carries early significance because the clubs are adjacent in the table and have each recently collected contrasting results. Stjernen’s shoot-out win over Lillehammer kept them in fifth place, while Oilers are looking to respond to their weekend defeat in Hamar.

Stjernen had been widely placed in the group behind the leading teams before the season, and their position after seven rounds is in line with that assessment. For Oilers, the immediate task is to re-establish the momentum that preceded the loss in Hamar.

Why It Matters

This is a direct meeting between neighbouring sides in the EliteHockey Ligaen standings.

Mini Q&A

When does Oilers versus Stjernen start?

Face-off at DNB Arena is scheduled for 18.30 on Thursday. Doors open at 17.00.

Where are Oilers and Stjernen in the table?

After seven EliteHockey Ligaen rounds, Stjernen are fifth and Oilers sit directly behind them.

What were the teams’ most recent results?

Oilers lost in Hamar at the weekend after three consecutive wins, while Stjernen beat Lillehammer in a shoot-out at Eidsiva Arena to take the bonus point.

What Comes Next

Oilers are due to announce their team status on game day. Supporter activities outside the Oilers shop, involving Johannes Løkkeberg and Elias Vatne, are also scheduled for Thursday before the 18.30 face-off.

Trønderdekk increases Nidaros Hockey backing

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Trønderdekk has continued its partnership with Nidaros Hockey while increasing its financial contribution to the club. Andreas Rosmo, managing director of Trønderdekk, said the company wanted to do more for a team and community that bring people together across ages and backgrounds.

Daniel Björnberg, Nidaros Hockey’s marketing and sales manager, welcomed the expanded agreement, describing Trønderdekk as an actively involved partner in the club’s network, matchdays and surrounding events.

Key Facts

  • Trønderdekk has renewed its partnership with Nidaros Hockey and increased its contribution to the club.
  • Andreas Rosmo, Trønderdekk’s managing director, said the company sees shared values in Nidaros Hockey’s work on and off the ice.
  • Rosmo said Trønderdekk hopes the increased contribution will give Nidaros Hockey an additional lift.
  • Trønderdekk operates two branches in Trondheim, at Leangen and Rosten.
  • Daniel Björnberg, Nidaros Hockey’s marketing and sales manager, said the club values Trønderdekk’s continued engagement and trust.
  • Björnberg said Trønderdekk contributes to activity and engagement within Nidaros Hockey’s partner network, including around matches and club events.

IHM Discussion

The agreement is a continuation rather than a change of commercial direction, but the increased contribution is the significant part for Nidaros Hockey. Rosmo framed the decision around local engagement and the club’s ability to bring together people from different backgrounds.

For Nidaros, the value lies not only in retaining a partner but in doing so with a business that has chosen to increase its backing. Björnberg’s comments also point to a relationship extending beyond branding, with Trønderdekk involved in the club’s partner activity and events around matchdays.

Why It Matters

Commercial partners are part of the off-ice structure that supports a hockey club’s wider activity. In this case, Trønderdekk has committed to another season with Nidaros Hockey and has raised its contribution, while both sides have emphasised their local connection to Leangen and Trondheim.

The announcement also underlines the importance Nidaros places on partners who take part in its network and club events, rather than simply maintaining a commercial association.

Mini Q&A

What has Trønderdekk agreed with Nidaros Hockey?

Trønderdekk has continued as a Nidaros Hockey partner and increased its contribution to the club.

Who spoke for the two organisations?

Andreas Rosmo spoke as Trønderdekk’s managing director, while Daniel Björnberg spoke as Nidaros Hockey’s marketing and sales manager.

Why did Trønderdekk increase its contribution?

Rosmo said the company wanted to do more for a team and environment that mean a great deal to Trondheim and bring people together across ages and backgrounds.

IHM Final View

Nidaros Hockey has secured continued support from an established local partner, with Trønderdekk increasing its contribution as the relationship moves forward. The central message from both organisations is one of continuity, stronger backing and a shared commitment to local engagement around the club.

Stjernen add Johansen and Thoresen amid injuries

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Stjernen have added Sebastian Johansen and Sander Thoresen as the EliteHockey Ligaen club looks to ease the strain of an injury-hit squad.

Johansen, 29, joins on a short-term agreement running from 12 October to 17 December. The Lørenskog centre arrives after being under contract with Sparta last season and brings top-flight Norwegian experience from spells with Vålerenga, Narvik and Frisk Asker.

Thoresen, 26, has signed for at least one month. His agreement allows him to move to another club should an opportunity arise. A Sparta youth product, he has spent much of his career with the club, played two seasons for Vålerenga and represented Norway at several age-group levels.

Stjernen sports manager Filip Gunnarsson said the injury situation had required the club to find creative solutions, adding that both players bring experience, energy and quality to the group.

Key Facts

  • Stjernen said seven or eight players are currently unavailable through injury.
  • Sebastian Johansen, 29, has signed a short-term deal from 12 October to 17 December.
  • Johansen is a centre with previous Norwegian top-flight experience at Vålerenga, Narvik and Frisk Asker, and was under contract with Sparta last season.
  • Sander Thoresen, 26, has committed to Stjernen for a minimum of one month.
  • Thoresen’s contract permits a move to another club if an opportunity becomes available.
  • Thoresen is a Sparta youth product, has played two seasons for Vålerenga and has represented Norway at age-group international level.

IHM Discussion

The additions give Stjernen two experienced options while the club manages a depleted group. Johansen’s deal has a defined end date in December, while Thoresen’s arrangement is structured differently: it has a minimum one-month commitment but retains flexibility for a possible move elsewhere.

Both players arrive with experience in Norwegian hockey. Johansen’s background includes several EliteHockey Ligaen clubs, while Thoresen has a lengthy Sparta connection alongside his time at Vålerenga and youth international appearances for Norway. Gunnarsson’s comments make clear that Stjernen expect the pair to contribute straight away during a busy stretch.

Why It Matters

With seven or eight players unavailable, Stjernen needed additional depth simply to broaden the options available to the coaching staff. The club have addressed that need with two players who know the Norwegian top-flight environment, rather than presenting the signings as long-term solutions.

The differing contract structures are also significant. Johansen is in place for a specified period, whereas Thoresen’s deal guarantees at least a month while allowing for a potential departure if another opportunity emerges.

Mini Q&A

How long is Sebastian Johansen signed for?

Johansen’s short-term Stjernen agreement runs from 12 October to 17 December.

What are the terms of Sander Thoresen’s deal?

Thoresen has signed for at least one month, with the possibility of joining another club should an opportunity arise.

Why have Stjernen made the signings?

Stjernen said that seven or eight players are unavailable through injury, prompting the club to seek reinforcements.

What Comes Next

Johansen’s short-term Stjernen contract is due to begin on 12 October and run until 17 December. Thoresen is committed for a minimum of one month under his flexible agreement.

IHM Final View

Stjernen have responded to a difficult injury situation with two additions carrying relevant domestic experience. Johansen offers cover through a set December end date, while Thoresen joins on a shorter, flexible arrangement as the club seeks to manage its immediate squad pressure.

Nidaros take the train for Vålerenga top-of-table test

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Nidaros Hockey will travel by train for their away meeting with Vålerenga, a game billed as a contest for top spot after the Trondheim side’s strong start to the EliteHockey Ligaen season.

The journey is part of Nidaros’s continuing partnership with SJ Norge, now in its second year. The club intends to use rail for more of its longer away trips this season and expects the change to reduce emissions by more than 43 tonnes of CO₂ compared with more emissions-intensive travel options.

For forward Anders Jonassen, the train is also a practical part of the build-up to a significant fixture. Jonassen said players can use the journey in different ways, including sleeping, working, studying or playing cards. He plans to play cards, do some work and take a short nap late in the journey to arrive feeling prepared for the game.

Nidaros commercial and marketing manager Daniel Björnberg said SJ Norge’s expanded agreement, which makes the company the club’s first platinum partner, helps the organisation facilitate more climate-friendly travel.

Key Facts

  • Nidaros Hockey are travelling by train for an away game against Vålerenga that concerns top spot in the EliteHockey Ligaen table.
  • Anders Jonassen said teammates use train journeys to sleep, work, study or relax before games.
  • Jonassen said he will use the trip to play cards, work and take a short nap as part of his pre-match routine.
  • Nidaros and SJ Norge are working together for a second consecutive year on more sustainable team travel.
  • The club expects to reduce emissions by more than 43 tonnes of CO₂ by taking the train on more longer away journeys this season.
  • SJ Norge has expanded its agreement with Nidaros and becomes the club’s first platinum partner.
  • The partnership also aligns with Nidaros’s TrønderHJERTE community work, including its Pride game and efforts to create inclusive activities for children and young people.

IHM Discussion

The travel plan places a simple but important operational detail around a key league fixture. Rather than treating the journey purely as transit, Nidaros are using the train as time in which players can manage their own recovery and preparation routines.

Jonassen’s description illustrates that flexibility. A player who needs rest can sleep, while others can study, work or switch off with a card game. The common destination remains the same, but the route allows for individual preparation rather than one fixed routine for the group.

The wider significance lies in the scale of the club’s stated environmental target. Nidaros expect rail use on longer trips to save more than 43 tonnes of CO₂ over the season, while SJ Norge’s enhanced commercial commitment gives the arrangement added stability. The partnership is therefore framed both as a travel choice and as part of the club’s broader community and sustainability work.

Why It Matters

Nidaros are entering an away game with direct table significance, so the manner of travel has a competitive context as well as an environmental one. The club’s players will arrive having had time to follow their own pre-match routines, according to Jonassen.

Away travel is a recurring part of a league season, making repeated choices on longer journeys meaningful. Nidaros’s expected reduction of more than 43 tonnes of CO₂ gives a measurable dimension to the decision to increase train use. The expanded SJ Norge partnership also links the initiative to a commercial relationship that supports the club’s stated sustainability aims.

Mini Q&A

Why are Nidaros travelling by train to face Vålerenga?

The trip is part of Nidaros Hockey’s partnership with SJ Norge and its plan to use rail more often on longer away journeys, while the players can also prepare for the game during the journey.

What did Anders Jonassen say about the train journey?

Jonassen said players can sleep, work, study or play cards on the train. He intends to play cards, work and take a short nap before the game.

What environmental impact does Nidaros expect from increased rail travel?

Nidaros expects to cut emissions by more than 43 tonnes of CO₂ this season compared with more emissions-intensive transport alternatives.

What Comes Next

The next stated checkpoint is Nidaros’s away meeting with Vålerenga, with top spot in the EliteHockey Ligaen table at stake. The club will also increase its use of rail on longer away journeys during the season as part of the SJ Norge partnership.

IHM Final View

Nidaros have attached a clear practical purpose to their rail travel: getting the group to an important away game while giving players room to prepare in their preferred way. With a stated season-long emissions saving of more than 43 tonnes of CO₂ and an expanded partnership behind the plan, the arrangement extends beyond one trip to Vålerenga.

Ernst Falch set for Norwegian hockey Gold Badge

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Ernst Falch is to receive the Norwegian Ice Hockey Federation’s Gold Badge with diploma in a pre-game ceremony before Stavanger Oilers play Narvik at DNB Arena.

The federation approved the honour at its spring congress in recognition of Falch’s long-standing contribution to Norwegian hockey, both in Stavanger and nationally. He has been active in Stavanger’s hockey community for nearly 50 years, running the city’s hockey school throughout that period and also working nationally as the federation’s recruitment lead.

Falch has continued to lead the skating and hockey school during the past two years despite serious illness. Norwegian Ice Hockey Federation president Anne Wood will present the award on the ice.

Key Facts

  • Ernst Falch will receive the Norwegian Ice Hockey Federation’s Gold Badge and diploma before Stavanger Oilers face Narvik at DNB Arena.
  • The award was approved by the federation at its spring congress and is its second-highest honour.
  • Falch has been active in Stavanger hockey for nearly 50 years and has run the city’s hockey school throughout that time.
  • He also served nationally as the Norwegian Ice Hockey Federation’s recruitment lead.
  • As Stavanger Hockey’s recruitment lead, Falch was instrumental in the club becoming Europe’s largest grassroots ice hockey club by membership.
  • Falch received the Norwegian Sports Gala’s Volunteer of the Year award in 2007, the Isbjørnen award in 2015 and became Stavanger Hockey’s first honorary member last year.
  • He has continued leading the skating and hockey school over the past two years while dealing with serious illness.

IHM Discussion

The Gold Badge recognises a contribution that extends beyond one team or one season. Falch’s work has covered first steps on the ice for thousands of children, long-term local recruitment and a national role with the Norwegian Ice Hockey Federation.

The timing also carries added weight. Falch has remained involved in the skating and hockey school during a serious illness, underlining the sustained commitment behind an award intended for exceptional service to Norwegian hockey over a very long period.

Why It Matters

Grassroots work is central to a club’s ability to bring new players into the sport. Falch’s years at Stavanger Hockey’s hockey school and in recruitment have formed a significant part of the club’s wider hockey identity, while his federation work gave that contribution a national dimension.

Mini Q&A

What honour is Ernst Falch receiving?

He is receiving the Norwegian Ice Hockey Federation’s Gold Badge with diploma, the federation’s second-highest honour.

Why is Ernst Falch being recognised?

The federation is recognising his nearly 50 years of work in Stavanger hockey, his national recruitment role and his long service to Norwegian hockey.

When will the award be presented?

It will be presented on the ice before Stavanger Oilers play Narvik on Thursday.

What Comes Next

The presentation is scheduled to take place on the ice before the puck drop for Stavanger Oilers’ game against Narvik on Thursday.

IHM Final View

Falch’s Gold Badge is recognition of decades spent introducing young players to hockey and supporting the sport’s growth in Stavanger and across Norway.

Rune Johansson Donates to Help Families Play Hockey

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Rune Johansson, a Swedish resident of Bryne, has donated a substantial sum to Oilers for the purchase of hockey equipment for families experiencing financial hardship.

The donation is specifically earmarked for equipment, directing the support towards a practical barrier that can limit a family’s ability to take part in the sport. Johansson’s contribution has been highlighted as a positive local hockey story.

Key Facts

  • Rune Johansson is a Swedish resident of Bryne.
  • Johansson recently donated a substantial sum to Oilers.
  • The money is earmarked for the purchase of hockey equipment.
  • The intended beneficiaries are families facing financial hardship.

IHM Discussion

Equipment costs can be a meaningful obstacle for families seeking to keep children involved in hockey. By earmarking the donation for gear, Johansson has targeted a direct access issue rather than leaving the purpose of the contribution open-ended.

The available information does not specify the value of the donation, the equipment to be purchased or how the support will be distributed. What is clear is that the funds are intended to help financially disadvantaged families obtain hockey equipment through Oilers.

Why It Matters

The donation is focused on participation. Hockey requires specialist equipment, and support with those costs can help reduce one of the practical pressures on families with limited finances.

Arena Fredrikstad foundations take shape

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Construction at the Arena Fredrikstad site in Fredrikstad has reached a more visible phase, with the foundations of the future venue beginning to take shape.

Stjernen Hockey Elite said more than three months of drilling, piling and groundwork had been completed before activity started to become clearer above ground. Machinery is now operating across the site as the project develops day by day.

Key Facts

  • Arena Fredrikstad is being built in Fredrikstad.
  • More than three months of drilling, piling and groundwork have been carried out.
  • The foundations are now taking shape at the construction site.
  • Stjernen Hockey Elite described the project as a future meeting place.

IHM Discussion

The latest update marks a tangible stage in the Arena Fredrikstad project. Much of the early work took place below ground and was less visible, but the emergence of the foundations gives the development a physical presence at the site.

For Stjernen Hockey Elite, the update keeps attention on the long-term arena project rather than a sporting development. The club has presented Arena Fredrikstad as a venue intended to serve as a meeting place, with construction activity now becoming increasingly apparent.

Why It Matters

Arena projects are significant for hockey clubs because they shape the setting in which teams, supporters and the wider local community will come together. The visible progress at Arena Fredrikstad provides a clear marker that the project has moved beyond its initial ground-preparation stage.

Oilers set for Narvik visit after two straight wins

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Stavanger Oilers will welcome Narvik to DNB Arena on Thursday as they look to build on back-to-back wins following a slow start to the EliteHockey Ligaen season.

Narvik arrive in Stavanger still without a point this term and were Oilers’ quarter-final opponents last season. The visitors will be chasing their first win, while Oilers are aiming to extend their current run before a Saturday trip to CC Amfi for another meeting with Storhamar.

Juha Kaunismäki’s team have found greater order after their difficult opening to the campaign. A further three-point result against Narvik would provide a positive platform ahead of the Storhamar fixture.

Key Facts

  • Stavanger Oilers host Narvik at DNB Arena on Thursday.
  • The puck drops at 18:30, with doors opening at 16:30.
  • Narvik were Oilers’ quarter-final opponents last season.
  • Narvik have yet to collect a point this season.
  • Oilers have won their last two games after a slow start to the season.
  • Juha Kaunismäki’s side travel to CC Amfi to face Storhamar on Saturday.

IHM Discussion

The fixture presents Oilers with an immediate opportunity to continue their recovery from the early-season setback described by the club. Two straight victories have improved the mood around Kaunismäki’s group, but Narvik’s point-less start also gives the visitors a clear incentive to make the trip difficult.

There is recent knockout history between the teams through last season’s quarter-final, adding familiar context to a league meeting which matters to both sides for different reasons. Oilers are trying to sustain momentum; Narvik are looking to get their first points on the board.

The timing is also significant for Oilers. Their visit to Storhamar follows quickly on Saturday, so Thursday’s game is the first part of a compact sequence rather than an isolated home date.

Why It Matters

For Oilers, a third consecutive win would reinforce the improvement that has followed the poor start and send the team into the Storhamar trip with added confidence. For Narvik, the match is another chance to end a scoreless opening to the league campaign.

The game also brings a repeat of last season’s quarter-final pairing back to DNB Arena, giving the meeting a recent competitive reference point without changing the immediate league objective for either club.

Mini Q&A

When do Oilers play Narvik?

Oilers host Narvik at DNB Arena on Thursday, with the puck dropping at 18:30.

What is at stake for Narvik?

Narvik are still without a point this season and are seeking their first win.

Who do Oilers face after Narvik?

Oilers travel to CC Amfi for a meeting with Storhamar on Saturday.

What Comes Next

Oilers face Narvik at DNB Arena on Thursday, with puck drop scheduled for 18:30. Oilers then travel to CC Amfi to play Storhamar on Saturday.

Juha Kaunismäki to lead Oilers through 2026-27

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Juha Kaunismäki has signed a contract to serve as Oilers head coach until the end of the 2026-27 season.

Kaunismäki and Stavanger Hockey chairman Snorre Haukali completed the signing live on the ice at DNB Arena. The occasion came around Oilers’ Thursday meeting with Ringerike, although no match result was stated.

The agreement gives the club a confirmed head-coaching arrangement for the remainder of the current campaign.

Key Facts

  • Juha Kaunismäki has signed to be Oilers head coach through the end of the 2026-27 season.
  • Kaunismäki signed the contract with Stavanger Hockey chairman Snorre Haukali.
  • The signing took place live on the ice at DNB Arena.
  • The announcement was made in connection with Oilers’ Thursday game against Ringerike.

IHM Discussion

The on-ice presentation made the coaching agreement a public marker for Oilers, rather than a routine administrative update. Most importantly, the contract establishes a clear duration: Kaunismäki will lead the team through the end of 2026-27.

That certainty matters within a season because the head coach is the figure responsible for shaping daily preparation and the team’s game approach.

Why It Matters

Oilers now have a formally confirmed head coach for the remainder of 2026-27. The deal puts Kaunismäki’s position on a defined footing and gives players, staff and supporters clarity over the club’s coaching leadership for the season.