Watersley is more than just a place where sports are played. It is an environment where talent comes together, boundaries are pushed, and international athletes meet. The past two weekends, Watersley was entirely dedicated to international ice hockey at the highest level for girls and boys under 16.
Together with IJshockey Nederland, Watersley organizes multiple international U16 tournaments each year for up-and-coming talent from different countries. Young athletes get the chance to compete against international peers, gain experience, and be part of a professional elite sports environment.
Three days on the ice
The renovated Glanerbrook served as the vibrant backdrop for the international boys’ tournament this past weekend. For three days, talented teams from the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, and Italy competed on the ice for the win. At the same time, some of the teams stayed at Watersley, where sports, accommodations, and talent development come together.
Following the successful performance of the Dutch U16 girls a week earlier, this weekend focused on the boys’ tournament. Netherlands U16 fought for every puck but ultimately had to concede to Germany’s KEV Krefeld, Team Belgium, and the strong-playing Aosta from Italy. In an exciting final, the Italians came out on top and took the trophy back to Northern Italy.
Passion makes it possible
But behind an international sports weekend like this, there is much more than just the games on the ice. Behind the scenes, an enormous organization runs on teamwork and dedication. From transportation and transfers to meals, medical support, officiating, and team coaching: dozens of people work together to keep everything running smoothly.
Long before the first puck hits the ice, weeks of preparation are already underway. And even after the last award is handed out, the organization keeps moving for days. That is exactly where Watersley shows what it stands for: a community where people work together to make dreams come true.
A special role belongs to the volunteers and organizers who dedicate themselves to the event with passion. Thanks to the efforts of people like Leonie Stans on behalf of Watersley and Natasha Schouten of IJshockey Nederland, along with a dedicated group of volunteers, young athletes get the chance to gain international experience in a professional and inspiring environment.
The international ice hockey weekends show what Watersley stands for: talent development, connection, and building dreams together. On and off the ice.
