Blaze to take on Dutch giants Tilburg Trappers as changes to pre season schedule are confirmed
Coventry Blaze, the UK’s representative in this season’s Continental Cup, will have an early opportunity to test themselves against European opposition after confirming they will take on Tilburg Trappers from the Netherlands in a prestigious pre season game at the Coventry Skydome on Sunday 29th August at 6pm. Tilburg are the Netherlands’ entrant in the Continental Cup and are hosting a second round group in October. Should they prevail in their group they would join Blaze in the third round in Rouen.
Tilburg were originally scheduled to take on Hull and Nottingham in a pre season tournament in Humberside but the demise of the Stingrays left the Dutch side short of a fixture on their trip to the UK. They will now play the Panthers in Nottingham on Saturday 28th before coming to Coventry for the game on 29th.
To accommodate Tilburg, Blaze have moved their pre season game against Cardiff Devils from 29th August to Wednesday 1st September at 7.30pm. The home game against Telford Tigers, originally scheduled for Saturday 4th September has been moved to Wednesday 15th September at 7.30pm.
The home opener – the Charity Shield against Belfast Giants - goes ahead as planned at the Skydome on Wednesday 25th August at 7.30pm.
This game, played between the winners of the 2009/10 league and playoff competitions is the first opportunity for Coventry fans to see their new team in action and a game not to be missed! Not only is this the first time on the ice for the new Coventry side but also the first mid-week game at the new earlier time of 7:30pm.
Regarded as the most anticipated season for years, the top flight of British hockey has been bolstered with two new teams from Scotland, with both Braehead Clan and Dundee Stars joining the league. Both teams will be making appearances in Coventry’s Skydome Arena early in the campaign and promise to bring a tough challenge for the Midland’s based team.
“Last season was hugely competitive, incredibly exciting and fantastic for the fans, players and management to be part of,” said Blaze Head Coach, Paul Thompson. “This season looks set to be even better with all teams looking very strong. We’re still confident that defending our title is achievable and the fans should start getting ready to see something very, very special this season! It doesn’t get much better than starting the season with the Charity Shield against Belfast. They have put together an amazing roster and it’s going to be a fantastic opening night.”
Blaze will open the defence of their league crown on Sunday 5th September in a huge game against the Nottingham Panthers at the Skydome at 6pm.
Pre season schedule
Wednesday 25th August Blaze v Belfast Giants at the Skydome at 7.30pm
Saturday 28th August Cardiff Devils v Blaze in Cardiff at 7.00pm
Sunday 29th August Blaze v Tilburg Trappers at the Skydome at 6.00pm
Wednesday 1st September Blaze v Cardiff Devils at the Skydome at 7.30pm
Tickets for the Charity Shield are on sale now from the Box Office on 02476 630693 or via the Buy Tickets link on the Blaze website. Tickets for the pre season games against Tilburg and Cardiff will be on sale from Monday 16th August.
There are expected to several regular season fixture amendments resulting from Hull’s withdrawal from the league which will be communicated as they are confirmed. Once the fixtures are confirmed we will communicate which games are included in the season ticket package.