Hawks take drop to NIHL North 2

Blackburn Hawks have intimated they wish to compete in NIHL North Division 2 from next season.

The Lancashire side, who have been in North 1 since 2012, have taken the decision as they look the future once the coronavirus pandemic has passed.

And they say the decision has come about with the focus of safety and help the team as a whole in the longer term.

A statement on the website said: “The Blackburn Hawks would like to announce that they intend to compete in NiHL North Division 2 for the 2020/21 season and have communicated this intent to the English Ice Hockey Association.

“Whilst there is no current date for league hockey to resume and no guidance in relation to restrictions placed on social distancing at sports events, it is expected that this information will start to emerge prior to the UK Government’s COVID-19 recovery strategy, scheduled for early July.

“The decision has been made after careful considerations of all possible options with a focus on player, volunteer and customer safety.

“We believe that the decision will ensure a sustainable and entertaining senior hockey programme able to challenge for league success and also a pathway for younger players looking to transition from junior to senior hockey.

“Once the English Ice Hockey Association have agreed the league format for next season including a starting date for the league then we will update Blackburn Hawks fans with more details.