Sports With Shay: Ice Hockey in Gwangju

A local expat, Andrew Dunne, has for some time now captained the effort of getting the local Gwangju community involved with the sport of hockey. Andrew and other like-minded people have created a hockey trend currently skating its way through Korea.

The Canadian native, with his fellow Korean and expat teammates, have been competing in games, tournaments, and scrimmages since 2009. They currently play near the World Cup stadium in Yeomju on Saturdays from 8:30 to 9:30. They also have traveled around the country to compete in games—namely in Jeonju, Gwangyang, and Daejeon. Additionally – to really get the blood flowing – they have competed in tournaments around Seoul, Namwon, and Ulsan. It seems the team will go wherever they can to show their camaraderie and fighting spirit.

The Gwangju team is a winning team – they have won a trophy at a tournament in Seoul – but they are open to players who want to join in on the fun.

This openness to let players compete has created a strong team. Anyone can join. Everyone is invited. Any level of skill, or lack of skill, is appreciated. The team is open to coaching interested players and helping them with their game. This level of openness has created a following that many have shadowed, and because of this, a team of about 20 members now joins together to compete and have fun.

Males and females alike are invited and have played. While Gwangju is still looking for eager women players, teams in Daegu and Jeonju currently have girls competing on the adult and youth teams.

In fact, there are currently 124 professional ice hockey ladies competing in tournaments around the globe. Korea’s national women’s team is currently ranked twenty-fifth in the world and has competed in Olympic qualifying tournaments. While they were not able to make the tourney this year, a strong push will be made for the 2018 Winter Olympics that will be hosted in Pyeongchang, Gangwondo so now is the time for women to get involved.

The men’s national hockey squad has made strides, too. Like the women’s team, they are also ranked twenty-fifth in the world, according to the International Ice Hockey Federation, and they too are preparing big-time for the 2018 Winter Olympics. Six professional players have joined forces with a Finland team to better their efforts and to learn as much about the sport as possible. There are big expectations in 2018.

For those that are more interested in competing for fun, one obstacle must be hurdled—the equipment. Shin pads, helmet, shoulder pads, protective shorts, gloves and other essentials are crucial for proper protection. This protection ensures an enjoyable experience. No one wants to get hurt or hurt another player.

If you are missing a piece or two, fear not. Equipment can be shipped and the shops in Seoul can easily do that. Also, there are many people willing to help with anyone having problems with finding or shipping gear necessary for the sport.

Getting around to playing is no problem at all. Getting involved in something like hockey will keep the blood pumping and provide awesome opportunities for making new friends. Attending a session at the Yeomju arena as a spectator is certainly welcomed and playing as a first-timer is encouraged. Message Adam Dunne at atdunne@gmail.com for a warm reception.