Liechtenstein launched the first domestic league

The Liechtenstein Ice Hockey Federation (LEIV), has been an associate member of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) since October 4, 2001. Due to the absence of indoor ice rinks within the country, the team has historically played matches in neighboring nations.

In 2003, Liechtenstein played its first international game against Luxembourg. After a period of inactivity, the national team was reactivated in 2021. In May 2022, they participated in the IIHF Development Cup in Füssen, Germany, securing a second-place finish among six teams. The following year, in 2023, they clinched the championship in Bratislava, Slovakia, marking a significant achievement in the nation's ice hockey history.

The domestic ice hockey scene is anchored by clubs such as EHC Vaduz-Schellenberg, founded in 1996. The club competes in the regional Vorarlberg League in Austria and provides the majority of players for the national team.

Due to the lack of indoor ice facilities in Liechtenstein, the club's home games are held at the Eishalle Grüsch in Switzerland.

Liechtenstein's ice hockey landscape has seen significant developments in recent years, culminating in the establishment of the pioneering 3x3 national league in January 2025.

In the past few weeks, the league has already hosted its first two match days. Matches took place in the Swiss ice rinks of Widnau and Grüsch, highlighting the cross-border collaboration necessary to support Liechtenstein’s ice hockey ambitions. By being the first country to introduce this format in a national championship, Liechtenstein is making history in the hockey world.

The game rules have been specifically crafted by the Liechtenstein Ice Hockey Association in alignment with the IIHF guidelines. This ensures a competitive and structured environment that fosters the growth of players and officials alike. The league features teams composed by players from some local clubs: EHC Vaduz-Schellenberg, HC Schellenberg, Liechtenstein Ice Hockey Youth and the Hurricane Hobes

The inaugural matches have been met with enthusiasm from fans, players, and sponsors alike. The success of the league’s initial rounds has already attracted new members and partners, fueling ambitions to expand the competition to include a junior category. This expansion would serve as a vital step in nurturing young talent and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the sport in Liechtenstein.

A major highlight of the season is the final tournament, scheduled for March 9, 2025, in Grüsch. This event promises to be a thrilling spectacle, inviting fans and hockey enthusiasts to witness the culmination of this groundbreaking league.

The current standing, after two rounds of the competition, are the follow:

1. Vaduz-Schellenberg Nobles
2. Mauren Warriors
3. Balzers Lynxes
4. Triesen Hurricane Hobes

Looking beyond the league, the Liechtenstein Ice Hockey Federationis setting its sights on participation in the World Championship Division 4. This goal is underpinned by a strong investment in youth development and official training programs. While support from Swiss and Austrian clubs has been invaluable, the long-term sustainability of ice hockey in Liechtenstein hinges on the establishment of a dedicated ice sports center within the country.

Liechtenstein’s 3-on-3 national league represents a bold step forward for the sport in the country. By embracing innovation, fostering local talent, and working towards international recognition, Liechtenstein is proving that even small nations can make a significant impact in the world of ice hockey. As the final tournament approaches, all eyes will be on this remarkable project, which is set to inspire future developments in the sport both locally and globally.

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