Post by 2+2 on May 23, 2004 11:12:47 GMT 1
The British federation has issued a statement concerning their decision not to play in the 2006 Winter Olympic Qualification process.
At the International Ice Hockey Federation annual congress in Prague last week, Ice Hockey UK withdrew the Great Britain ice hockey teams from the 2006 Winter Olympic qualifying rounds due to commence in November this year.
Ice Hockey UK was forced, very reluctantly and after consultation with head coach Chris McSorley, members of the board of directors and Frederic Meredith (who is an International Ice Hockey Federation council member), to withdraw the team as we had no funding for this event. It had been estimated that we would need in the region of £15,000 to £30,000 to compete in these qualifying rounds.
Subsequent to our withdrawal the Great Britain Supporters Club offered to fully fund the Olympic bid.
Ice Hockey UK has since been in discussion with the International Ice Hockey Federation to re-apply for inclusion in the qualifying tournaments. We have been informed that this cannot happen.
Chris McSorley expressed his views by saying “Although disappointed I believe that it is extremely important to channel all available funds to the development of the Under 20s programmes. Although all of us would have enjoyed the competition we must remain realistic in our goal of development. It is extremely unfortunate that through lack of funds we have had to withdraw the teams. I am certain that available funds will continue to be wisely allocated. To quash any rumours, my commitment to the Great Britain programme is as strong now as it ever has been.”<br>
Well, looks like they are at their low now. Just wonder why they want to channel all funds in U20s. At that age a player is finished with his development and SHOULD be ready to play at a pro level. Rather put some investment into U10, U12, U14. There lies the future. Bring the kids up properly, with better coaches, more games, more commitment, less gooning and GB will be succesful.
At the International Ice Hockey Federation annual congress in Prague last week, Ice Hockey UK withdrew the Great Britain ice hockey teams from the 2006 Winter Olympic qualifying rounds due to commence in November this year.
Ice Hockey UK was forced, very reluctantly and after consultation with head coach Chris McSorley, members of the board of directors and Frederic Meredith (who is an International Ice Hockey Federation council member), to withdraw the team as we had no funding for this event. It had been estimated that we would need in the region of £15,000 to £30,000 to compete in these qualifying rounds.
Subsequent to our withdrawal the Great Britain Supporters Club offered to fully fund the Olympic bid.
Ice Hockey UK has since been in discussion with the International Ice Hockey Federation to re-apply for inclusion in the qualifying tournaments. We have been informed that this cannot happen.
Chris McSorley expressed his views by saying “Although disappointed I believe that it is extremely important to channel all available funds to the development of the Under 20s programmes. Although all of us would have enjoyed the competition we must remain realistic in our goal of development. It is extremely unfortunate that through lack of funds we have had to withdraw the teams. I am certain that available funds will continue to be wisely allocated. To quash any rumours, my commitment to the Great Britain programme is as strong now as it ever has been.”<br>
Well, looks like they are at their low now. Just wonder why they want to channel all funds in U20s. At that age a player is finished with his development and SHOULD be ready to play at a pro level. Rather put some investment into U10, U12, U14. There lies the future. Bring the kids up properly, with better coaches, more games, more commitment, less gooning and GB will be succesful.