Steel Queens forge ice hockey history and inspire new generation

The Caledonia Steel Queens are preparing to make Scottish ice hockey history when they play Guildford Lightning at Murrayfield Ice Arena later. This marks the return of the UK's elite women's league to the country after a 32-year absence. The Steel Queens have grown from just seven players in 2017 to more than 120 members, making them the only elite team this side of the border.

Their upcoming game against Guildford Lightning is described as the "biggest story in UK ice hockey this year" by the club, as it aims to make the sport more accessible for players who often have to travel long distances to play at the top level in England.

Ice hockey has seen a surge in popularity in recent months, partly due to TV shows like Heated Rivalry and Off Campus. Maya Low, a 20-year-old member of the Steel Queens, discovered ice hockey through her Canadian cousins at the age of 15. The sport became even more meaningful to her in August 2024 when she was diagnosed with leukemia.

Despite undergoing intensive treatment for 10 months and losing the ability to walk, Maya found motivation and strength in ice hockey. It gave her a goal to look forward to and work towards, which proved crucial for her mental and physical well-being, as well as in reconnecting with friends and building confidence.

Another promising player is 13-year-old Drew Henderson, who, along with her twin brother Flynn, started playing ice hockey seven years ago after seeing a poster during a public skating session. Drew currently captains the Steel Queens' development team, the Iron Maidens. Her mother, Fee, believes that having Scotland's own elite team will inspire the next generation, especially girls, to pursue their dreams in ice hockey and see that there is a high level of achievement and excitement in the sport.