The Elite League season begins on the weekend of the 3rd and 4th September with a series of Challenge Cup fixtures.

The following Friday, Dundee Stars host Nottingham Panthers in the first league game of the new campaign.

The league season will come to a close with all ten teams playing on the 26th March 2017.

The Panthers begin their defence of the Challenge Cup on 4th September at Coventry Blaze.

Sheffield Steelers begin their quest for a third Elite League title in a row on 1st October at home to Braehead Clan.

Other key dates include the Challenge Cup Final which will be held in Cardiff on Sunday 5th March and the Play-off Finals Weekend at the National Ice Centre in Nottingham on 8th and 9th April.

For a full fixture list please click here.

(Image permission: Carol Ann Jardine)