Women’s sport continues to gain momentum across the UK, and this year Alexandra Palace will mark a major milestone as its first-ever women’s ice hockey team celebrates Women’s National Ice Hockey League competition during International Women’s Day celebrations.
The Haringey Greyhounds, reigning league and cup champions in their division, are set to host the Slough Sirens on Saturday 8 March at Alexandra Palace Ice Rink. The fixture forms part of wider activities recognising women’s achievements in sport and community leadership.
Rapid Rise of a New Women’s Ice Hockey Team
Founded in 2024, the Haringey Greyhounds have quickly established themselves as one of the fastest-growing teams in the league.
In their debut season, the team won the Division 2 South B title after securing nine victories from ten matches — an achievement rarely seen from a newly formed side.
Their promotion into Division 2 South A this season reflects both strong performance on the ice and increasing support from local fans.
Club leaders say the team’s growth reflects wider national interest in women’s sport following rising participation rates and improved visibility across multiple disciplines.
Leadership Driving Change in Women’s Sport
The team was created through collaboration between Alexandra Palace Ice Rink General Manager Kirsty Bard, team manager Olga Glazer, and captain Hannah Dolan Davies.
Their shared goal has been to expand opportunities for women and girls to participate in ice hockey within Haringey and surrounding London communities.
Bard, who previously founded Cambridge’s first female ice hockey club, has focused on building an inclusive environment that welcomes both experienced athletes and beginners.
According to organisers, attendance at home games has steadily increased throughout the season — a sign of growing local enthusiasm for women’s ice hockey.
From Figure Skating to Ice Hockey Leadership
Captain Hannah Dolan Davies represents the strong community roots behind the Greyhounds’ success.
She first stepped onto the ice at Alexandra Palace as a six-year-old figure skater before performing internationally with Disney on Ice.
After retiring from competitive skating, she returned to the venue as a coach and later transitioned into ice hockey leadership.
Team officials say her journey reflects the club’s wider mission of encouraging lifelong participation in sport.
Building Inclusion and Opportunity in Haringey
The Greyhounds’ development has also focused heavily on accessibility.
Organisers aim to remove barriers that can discourage women and girls from joining ice sports — including cost concerns, confidence challenges, and limited grassroots opportunities.
Community programmes connected to the rink now encourage participation at all levels, whether competitive play or recreational skating.
Supporters say the welcoming atmosphere has helped players build confidence while strengthening friendships and community ties.
International Women’s Day Celebrations in London
The match coincides with the 115th anniversary of International Women’s Day, a global campaign recognising progress toward gender equality and celebrating women’s achievements.
Emma Dagnes OBE, Chief Executive of the Alexandra Park and Palace Charitable Trust, described the team as powerful role models for younger generations.
She said the Greyhounds demonstrate how sport can build confidence, inspire ambition, and expand opportunities for women across London boroughs and beyond.
International Women’s Day events worldwide highlight leadership, inclusion, and equal access — values organisers say align closely with the club’s mission.
Growing Momentum for Women’s Ice Hockey in the UK
Women’s ice hockey remains a developing sport in Britain compared with traditional winter sports nations, but participation has steadily grown in recent years.
Grassroots clubs, improved youth training programmes, and increased media coverage have helped attract new audiences.
Alexandra Palace’s investment in women’s teams signals broader change within UK ice sports infrastructure, where organisers are increasingly prioritising equality alongside competition.
Upcoming Home Fixtures at Alexandra Palace Ice Rink
Fans will have several opportunities to support the Greyhounds during upcoming matches:
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Saturday 8 March — Haringey Greyhounds vs Slough Sirens (International Women’s Day celebration)
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Saturday 14 March — Haringey Greyhounds vs Chelmsford Pythons (PRIDE Game)
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Saturday 11 April — Haringey Greyhounds vs Cardiff Comets
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Saturday 2 May — Haringey Greyhounds vs Solent Amazons
Organisers encourage families and local residents to attend and experience the growing energy around women’s ice hockey firsthand.
A New Chapter for Women in Sport
As women’s sport continues to gain recognition globally, the success of the Haringey Greyhounds highlights how local initiatives can drive meaningful change.
From grassroots participation to competitive success, Alexandra Palace’s first women’s ice hockey team is helping shape a future where opportunities on the ice are open to everyone.
