User:Beevers

The University of Huddersfield Ice Hawks are a Student Ice Hockey club affiliated to the British Universities Ice Hockey Association (B.U.I.H.A.) and the English Ice Hockey Association (E.I.H.A.). The club was formed in November 2006 by Post-Graduate Student Adam Beevers after becoming frustrated by the University of Huddersfield's lack of representation in 'fringe' sports.

The Club was officially registered with the affiliate bodies in September 2007 and competed its first season in the B.U.I.H.A. Division Two Northern Conference during 2008. With the addition of new University clubs the team will compete in the newly formed Central Conference of the B.U.I.H.A's cup competition through the 08/09 season. Manchester Metros, Sheffield Bears, Nottingham Mavericks and Birmingham Eagles will form the clubs opposition.

History
In November 2006 a list of sixty-seven student names were presented to the University of Huddersfield's Student Union requesting the formation of an ice hockey team. Founding member Adam Beevers initially funded the teams ice time from his own income to establish an immediate core group to the team. The Students Union provided funding for limited equipment in 2007 enabling the team to incorporate new players to the sport, meeting one of its stated aims:-

1. To contribute and enrich the sporting and social tapestry of the University.

2. To introduce new people to a fast, physical and often expensive sport in a safe, fun and affordable environment.

Following discussions within the team and with the University's American Football team it was decided that the hockey team use the name 'Hawks', the same as the 'Football' team. A logo was created and team colors agreed. The proposal was to unite under a solitary banner increasing the presence of both teams and helping to rally supporters and new members. However on the eve of the 07/08 season the 'Football' team lodge a complaint with the Students Union. The claim was that the Ice Hockey Team were trying to ride the coat-tails of an established sports team within the University. After a meeting of all parties it was decided that the Ice Hockey team should adopt a prefix to the name 'Hawks' to distinguish themselves. The Ice Hawks were created.

The Ice Hawks soon developed a small but loyal fan base. Several of whom travelled to Whitley Bay to watch the team challenge the seasons eventual champions on their own rink, despite the match not starting until mid-night. The season closing Varsity match against the Bradford Sabres reportedly drew the biggest crowd of all of the days events. The small arena was filled with screaming fans passionately cheering on their sides. While Bradford came out as the winners it was a night to remember for all those present.