Mark Illingworth, made history, in Milton Keynes, on Sunday, 17th September, when he netted Great Britain Universities first-ever goal. Illlingwoth, who was narrowly nudged out of the squad exactly one year before, proved to GB bosses that he deserved a second chance. GB Team Manager, Simon Hopkins, said: it was a great moment for the team and for Mark. Pleasingly, the powerplay goal was assisted by another Maverick and Nottingham Trent student, Craig Poynter.

Also playing from the Mavericks A team was Stuart Bliss and Colm Cannon who also had an excellent game, looking forward to a positive future with the GBU ice hockey team.

The GBU ice hockey team are preparing to compete in the bi-annual FISU World University Games, which will be held in Torino, Italy, from 17th - 27th January 2007. It’s the first time ever that GB have entered the ice hockey competition, at an event which is renowned globally as being second only to the Winter Olympic Games.

Team GBU have been drawn against: Czech Rep, Finland, Italy, Japan and Kazakhstan. In addition, Team Canada, have challenged Team GBU to a friendly pre-tournament game. Group A, includes: Canada, Russia, Slovakia, USA and Korea.

Team GBU will be based in Torre-Pellice, 54km from Torino, in the Italian Alps. Notably, the tournament is in the winter exam period for the Uni of Nottingham students. However, if you would like to support the Mavericks GBU players, then contact the GB Supporters Club: www.GBSC.co.uk

Written By Simon Hopkins

The Mavericks have lost their regular ice-time at the Sutton Ice Rink in North Notts. This is a devastating blow to the club, as much of its success can be attributed to the many players that have enjoyed the unique opportunity of learning to skate and play ice hockey without the need for full kit.

The creation of a new junior ice hockey club is to blame for the Mavericks’ exclusion. Head Coach and Chairman, Simon Hopkins, is liaising with the rink management and council officials, in an attempt to secure a Wednesday afternoon slot. This should be confirmed either way by early October.

Until then, Development Squad players, who do not yet have kit, or lack the confidence to train with the C and D teams, are encouraged to meet with Mavericks players on Wednesday afternoons, at the NIC, to practice skating and socialise with club members at the public session.

On a positive note, the Sutton Rink General Manager, has announced that their new rink will be opening in April 2008. The Mavericks are high on the list of ice-time allocations and may opt to move 50% of their hockey operations up the M1.

Written By Simon Hopkins