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Over the next few weeks, Lions Inline Hockey Club will be sharing why more and more players and families are stepping into inline hockey — and why it might just be the perfect place to start your hockey journey.

There’s no denying that both inline and ice hockey are fantastic sports… but when it comes to accessibility, development, and opportunity — inline has some huge advantages, especially for younger players.

💡 Here’s what we’ll be covering…

• 💸 Lower costs – making hockey more accessible and freeing up budget for extra training, games, and travel opportunities

• 🚗 Less travel & better times – more local sessions and fewer late nights for junior players

• 🧒 Opportunities from a younger age – including Under 6 & Under 8 leagues and events

• ⏱️ More playing time on the rink
– 4 vs 4 format = more puck touches
– No buzzer line changes
– Longer game formats (2 x 15 minute periods)

• 📈 Real development & progression
– Structured competitions
– Stats and tracking so players can see their improvement

• 🏒 Play up an age group – giving players more rink time and faster progression

• 🧑‍🏫 Ability-based training (not just age)
– Sessions designed around development level
– Extra sessions available to support progression

• 🌍 More opportunities to play
– UK leagues and events
– International tournaments in Spain, Germany, the USA and beyond
– Teams and events like Desert Rats, Silly Mittz, Flamingos and more

• 🌙 Better rink access
– More consistent availability
– Less impact from senior league schedules

🦁 At Lions Inline Hockey Club, we believe hockey should be accessible, inclusive and built around helping every player improve and enjoy the game.

👉 Stay tuned over the next few weeks as we break each of these down and show why inline hockey isn’t just an alternative…
it’s often the best place to start.

#InlineHockey #LionsIHC #JuniorHockey #RollerHockey #HockeyDevelopment #PlayMoreHockey #InlineVsIce #HockeyCommunity

Coming into the season, the Senior Lions were looking to build on some incredible highs — competing in the UKIHF A League last year and lifting the B Nationals title. However, with several players moving on to new adventures or stepping into retirement, the squad entered this season in rebuild mode.

Despite still aiming to compete at A League level, changes to the league structure and a mini‑league format that ultimately didn’t work meant the Lions were placed into the North West B League, alongside another A League-calibre team, Hawks.

A Tough Start, A Strong Finish

The season didn’t get off to the best start. The Lions were short‑benched in the opening fixtures, making consistency difficult. As the season progressed, players returned, new faces joined the squad, and the team steadily grew stronger — both in depth and performance.

With Hawks flying from the outset, it quickly became clear that catching them wasn’t realistic without a slip‑up. The focus shifted to securing second place and pushing for another Nationals qualification.

All or Nothing – The Final Game

Everything came down to the final game against Phoenix — a team we’ve built a great relationship with over time. Phoenix held a two‑point lead and a +7 goal difference, meaning the Lions needed a four‑goal win to leapfrog them.

At half-time, the game was finely balanced, with the Lions leading 4–3. The team dug deep in the second period, producing a huge performance — scoring five unanswered goals and conceding none — to finish the game 9–3 and secure second place in dramatic fashion.

A Frustrating End, But Lessons Learned

What initially looked like a well‑earned Nationals spot was ultimately denied due to league rules and the team also being registered in the West League, with the place instead awarded to Phoenix. A frustrating end to a frustrating season — but one that showed the character of this group.

Despite the challenges, spirits remain high. This season proved that even in difficult circumstances, this team can pull together, grind out results, and compete.

Looking ahead, the Lions have made it clear that if we return to the North West League next season, we will be focused purely on competition and progression, rather than entering round‑robin events with nothing at stake.

What’s Next?

Focus now shifts to the West League, where the squad has continued to grow. Two tough games against Predators and Pumas will decide whether the Lions compete in the A or B League — a huge test and an exciting challenge.

Preparations are also already underway for next season, with the ambition clear:
👉 Push ourselves and compete consistently at A League level.

If you’re looking for a new team for next season and can train on Thursday nights, we’d love to hear from you.
📩 DM us or email info@lionsihc.co.uk

 #LionsIHC #SeniorLions #InlineHockey #UKIHF #NorthWestLeague #ALeagueHockey #HockeyRebuild #TeamCulture #GrindItOut #NationalsHockey #InlineFamily 

Today our amazing Lion Cubs Under 14s Nationals side went into battle short‑handed and with a very young squad, and they were outstanding from start to finish. Every player put in an incredible shift and showed exactly what Lion Cubs hockey is all about.

This team plays the game the right way — not about who scores the most goals, but about helping each other create them. That teamwork shone through today, with every single player scoring, backed up by plenty of assists and unselfish play.

We fielded a very young attacking line, firing shots against some big, experienced netminders and players, and it didn’t stop these Cubs for a second. They kept pushing, shooting, and competing all day long.

While we didn’t quite make the final, massive credit goes to Lucas M, Toby, Theo, Joe and Ellis, who gave absolutely everything out on the rink. A special mention goes to Lucas R, who earned a place in the League’s GOAT Player of the Season awards, selected by Rene — a fully deserved award for leading by example every game day and always showing a positive attitude on and off the rink.

Huge thank you to all the parents for the early 7am start and continued support — without your commitment, this league and age group simply wouldn’t be possible. We’re already looking ahead to our next U14s adventure, and if you’d like to join Lion Cubs, drop us a message to find out about one of our three sessions each week 🏒💙🤍

LionCubs #LionsInlineHockey #U14Nationals #TeamFirst #HockeyFamily #PlayTheRightWay #ProudClub #FutureLions #CubsOnTheRise

We’d like to wish our Lion Cubs Under 14s the very best of luck as they head into the UKIHF Under 14s Nationals today💪🔥

The squad may be missing a few players this time around, but that won’t stop the six Lion Cubs stepping onto the rink from giving absolutely everything in every game. This tournament is a fantastic opportunity to gain valuable experience, enjoy extra rink time, and continue developing as players and as a team — exactly what these events are all about.

A huge thank you also goes out to the parents and families who are setting those alarms extra early, with a 7:30am first face‑off 😴☕ Your support makes a massive difference, and it never goes unnoticed.

Go out there, work hard, enjoy the challenge, and most importantly — have fun. We’re proud of you all and cheering you on every shift of the way! 🦁💙

LionCubs #LionsInlineHockey #UKIHF #U14Nationals #CubsPride #PlayWithHeart #FutureLions #EarlyStartsBigDreams

Last night we held our very first Skill Foundations and Skills Development sessions, and wow… what a night! 🙌

This was the first time we moved away from age-based sessions and instead focused on ability-based training, and the results were honestly incredible.

Our experienced Cubs Audrey, Freddie, Zakk, Seb, Ellis and Leo came down to support our newer Cubs, with each player paired up with a partner for the full session. They worked together through every drill set by the coaches, with the experienced Cubs guiding, encouraging and supporting the newer players every step of the way. The smiles on the faces of our newest Cubs said it all 😁 and it really brought a huge family feeling to the rink.

Straight after, our more experienced players took to the rink for their Skills Development session, and the coaches were nothing but impressed. The speed at which the drills were carried out, the understanding of each exercise, and the overall standard on the rink really showed how much improvement this group continues to make after another season of game time.

We finished the night with another Players vs Netminder shootout 🥅 After winning last week’s challenge, Freddie was pushed all the way to the final shot this week — and just managed to take the win again! 👀🔥 Can he make it 3–0 next week, or will the players work out his tactics?

A massive well done to all our Cubs — attitudes were outstanding, effort was amazing, and everyone gave their all across both training sessions. We can’t wait to see the improvement over the next few months as players settle into their newly assigned sessions and continue their pathway towards senior session hockey 🏒💪

👉 New players welcome!
If you’d like to become a Lion Cub, or if you’re looking to squeeze an extra session into your week, drop us a DM or email info@lionsihc.co.uk

#LionCubs #LionsIHC #InlineHockey #YouthHockey #HockeyFamily #PlayerDevelopment #SkillsDevelopment #GrassrootsHockey #FutureLions #HockeyLife

It was another action‑packed league weekend for Lions Inline Hockey Club, with both Lions Senior and Lions Black teams taking to the rink and showcasing the depth, resilience, and progress across the club.

Lions Senior – West A/B League Round Robin

The Lions Senior team were in fine form as they battled it out in the West A/B League Round Robin, playing three high‑intensity games and coming away with three well‑earned wins:

Lions 9 – 3 Knights

Lions 15 – 7 Raptors

Lions 8 – 7 Mooseheads – a thrilling, nail‑biting finish sealed with just 3 seconds left on the clock

A perfect day on the scoreboard and a huge statement from the senior squad as they continue to push hard in a highly competitive league

Lions Black – Final North West League Game Day

For Lions Black (pictured above), this weekend marked their final game day of the North West League season — a season that proved challenging both on and off the rink.

Stepping up from West D League to compete at this level was no small task, and league challenges added to the difficulty. Despite this, the team showed incredible commitment, managing to secure a league win and pushing every opponent, keeping scores close in the majority of games.

Although Lions Black will not be returning to this league next season, the group stayed together, pushed themselves, and successfully raised their level to compete in a strong C League environment. The experience gained this season will be invaluable as the team continues to develop.

Looking Ahead

As we leave this weekend behind, attention now turns to another exciting stretch of hockey:

Under‑14s Lion Cubs head into their Nationals Day next Saturday

Lions Senior return for their final North West League game day, pushing hard for a 2nd place finish

Want to Play Inline Hockey?

If you’re looking to play inline hockey yourself — or want to get your children involved — Lions Inline Hockey Club runs five sessions a week:

Monday: Skills Foundations & Skills Development

Thursday: Lions Senior Training

Sunday: Skills Performance & Lions Black Training

For more information, drop us a DM or email info@lionsihc.co.uk.

LionsInlineHockey #LionsIHC #InlineHockeyUK #SeniorInlineHockey #YouthInlineHockey #HockeyFamily #GameDay #WestLeague #NorthWestLeague #RoadToNationals #HockeyDevelopment

As we come to the end of the regular season and move into the playoff period, we’ve taken time to reflect on how much the club has grown over the last 12 months. With that growth has come a wide mix of abilities across our age groups.

From May, as we prepare for next season, we’ll be making some changes to Cubs training by moving away from traditional age‑group sessions and introducing ability‑based sessions. This allows us to coach and challenge every child at the stage they’re currently at in their hockey journey, keeping all players engaged and supported.

One of the biggest positives this season has been having the same bench coaches with each team, helping players and coaches build strong bonds. This will continue next season. Training sessions will be led by James, Doc and Donks, supported by experienced players helping newer Cubs learn the sport and build stronger friendships within the club.

We’re also working towards giving our junior players the chance to compete in a tournament outside the UK, creating memories and experiences that show inline hockey isn’t just for the most experienced players.

Lions have worked hard to grow inline hockey in Manchester while keeping an anyone can play culture. With this new structure, we believe we can keep more children playing from U8s through to U16s, and support progression into senior hockey from D through to A League.

📩 Looking to get your child into inline hockey? Send us a DM or email info@lionsihc.co.uk
🏒 Players from other clubs looking for extra rink time are also very welcome.

#LionsIHC #LionCubs #InlineHockey #YouthHockey #PlayerPathway #GrowingTheGame 🦁🏒

What a way to wrap up our Under 10s league season! Our Lion Cubs showed just how far they’ve come this year, putting in huge performances and picking up a massive win against the team fighting for the top spot in the league. Every single player showed incredible improvement, and we honestly couldn’t be prouder of this group.

The effort from our young Cubs across the game day was outstanding. You could see after the first game just how hard they’d worked – they were more tired than we’ve seen them after any first set of games all season – but they kept digging in, battling for each other, and giving absolutely everything on the rink. Watching their confidence, teamwork, and skills grow week by week has been amazing.

A huge shout‑out once again to Freddie, our brilliant Under 8s netminder, who stepped up for the Under 10s again this weekend. Getting experience playing up an age group is massive, and Freddie did himself proud.
Another special mention to Ellis, who has once again led the way in the Under 10s, just like he did in our Under 8s season – finishing on 20 league points. Outstanding effort and leadership.

🦁 Cubs Player of the Day went to Sebastian, who played in his first-ever inline hockey game – and not only that, he was playing up an age group! He absolutely smashed it, making some huge interceptions, great passes, and contributing every time he stepped onto the rink… plus being a bundle of joy off it too.

🏒 Coaches’ Player of the Day went to Audrey, who completed everything asked of her by the coaches. She worked brilliantly around the goal in attack and was very unlucky not to grab her first goal of the season – it’s coming soon!

This team has one more game day at the UKIHF Junior Nationals, and we can’t wait to see how this group performs on the end‑of‑season showcase. They’ve worked so hard and truly deserve this moment.

If you’d like to get your child into inline hockey, or if they’re looking for more training, drop us a message 💬
We host 5 training sessions a week and can help find the perfect session to support them on their hockey journey.

💙🤍 So proud of every single Lion Cub 🤍💙

#LionCubs #LionsIHC #InlineHockey #JuniorHockey #ProudCoaches #PlayerDevelopment #Teamwork #HockeyFamily 🏒💙🤍

For the whole of March, we’re switching things up at Lions Senior Training!

We’ve decided to pause our usual drills + scrimmage format and instead run a full Open Scrimmage session from start to finish. That means more game time, more touches of the puck, and plenty of fast‑paced hockey.

✅ £5 per player per session
✅ 2 netminders each week
✅ 1.5 hours of non‑stop scrimmage

We’re looking for players who want to jump in, get some good ice time (well… wheels time 😉), and enjoy competitive but friendly hockey — all at a low cost throughout March.

If you’re free, fancy extra game time, or just want to keep sharp, come down and join us!

📩 Drop us a DM
📧 Or email info@lionsihc.co.uk to get involved

#LionsIHC #SeniorHockey #OpenScrimmage #InlineHockey #GameTime #HockeyCommunity #LowCostHockey #MarchScrimmage

Our Under 12s session is the perfect next step for young players who have already grasped the basic skills learned in our Under 8s and Under 10s sessions and are ready to take their inline hockey to the next level.

This session focuses on developing: 🏒 Stronger skating skills
🏒 Puck control and passing
🏒 Shooting technique
🏒 Positioning, teamwork, and game play

✅ Full equipment is required for this session, as players will be working at a higher intensity and learning more advanced hockey skills in a structured environment.

The Under 12s session is designed to prepare players for competitive inline hockey, build confidence, and continue their progression within Lions Inline Hockey Club.

📍 Ardwick Sports Centre
🕖 Mondays | 7:00 – 8:00pm

If your child is ready for the next challenge and loves the game, this is the session for them 🏒💛
Get in touch via DM or email info@lionsihc.co.uk to find out more or to join the squad!

#LionsIHC #Under12sHockey #JuniorHockey #InlineHockey #PlayerDevelopment #FutureLions #UKIHF #YouthHockey #NextLevelHockey