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.