OCEANICE and SHARKBLADES: The Revolution of Ice Hockey in the Heart of Switzerland
On September 7, 2024, ice hockey in Switzerland took a giant leap into the future. The SCL Tigers unveiled their groundbreaking new campus in Langnau im Emmental, a 21-million-franc commitment to innovation and sustainability in sports. This state-of-the-art facility, driven forward by SCL Tigers President Peter Jakob, is not just changing the game for one team - it's redefining what's possible for ice hockey infrastructure worldwide.
Adapting to a Changing Sports Landscape
In a world where climate change and resource scarcity increasingly challenge traditional ice sports, the new SCL Tigers campus stands as a beacon of adaptation and foresight. An important component of this revolution is a custom-made 200 m² OCEANICE PRO ARENA - the first of its kind in Switzerland. This complete arena, consisting of synthetic OCEANICE, innovative SHARKBLADES, and specially adapted boards, has been precisely tailored to the requirements of the SCL Tigers, both functionally and aesthetically. As Philipp Bohnenblust, Sports Director of SCL Young Tigers, notes: "It makes Langnau an even more attractive location for young hockey players."
Year-Round Training, Unparalleled Efficiency
The OCEANICE surface, paired with our innovative SHARKBLADES, breaks the barriers of seasonal training. No longer constrained by weather conditions or energy-intensive cooling, players can refine their skills 365 days a year. This continuous access to 'ice time' opens new possibilities for player development and skill refinement. The spectrum ranges from targeted shooting practice to demanding skating drills and tactical small-room games.
Youth Development at the Highest Level
This facility is particularly invaluable for youth development. In professional sports, where daily drills are absolutely necessary to play at the highest level, the OCEANICE PRO ARENA offers optimal conditions. Young talents can improve their skills here daily, regardless of weather or season. This consistency in training is crucial for their development and increases their chances of one day becoming top players. The SCL Tigers are thus creating not just a training facility, but a true talent forge for the future of ice hockey in Switzerland.
Shaping the Future of Ice Hockey Infrastructure
The SCL Tigers campus is more than just a training facility; it's a glimpse into the future of sustainable sports infrastructure. By integrating OCEANICE and SHARKBLADES, the Tigers have created a multifunctional space that serves not only ice hockey players but also other athletes and community members. This inclusivity and versatility embody the core of our mission at Green Hockey. We're not trying to replace traditional ice hockey; we're expanding its horizons. By offering sustainable, adaptable solutions, we ensure that future generations can enjoy hockey in all its forms in more places than ever before, without compromising the health of our planet. The impact of this technology reaches far beyond the Emmental. Imagine ice hockey thriving in regions where maintaining traditional ice rinks was once economically or ecologically unfeasible. Picture young players in warm climates having the same opportunities to develop their skills as their counterparts in colder regions. As we look to the future, we see a world where hockey truly knows no boundaries - where players can train year-round, regardless of their location or climate. We envision a sport that's not only environmentally responsible but also truly global and diverse. The commissioning of the OCEANICE PRO ARENA represents a landmark collaboration between the SCL Tigers and Green Hockey, setting new benchmarks for innovation in ice hockey. This initiative not only enhances training capabilities for the Tigers but also paves the way for more accessible and environmentally sustainable ice hockey practices industry-wide. With OCEANICE and SHARKBLADES, we're not just adapting to change - we're driving it forward. We're creating a future where ice hockey is more sustainable, more accessible, and more inclusive than ever before.
Let’s grow the game together! 💚🏒
