Opening Weekend Thrills: WNIHL 2025 Season Gets Underway

Excitement, High Scores, and Intense Rivalries Launch the New Hockey Year

The Women's National Ice Hockey League (WNIHL) kicked off its 2025 season with a weekend packed full of action, dramatic goals, and impressive team performances. Ice arenas across England were alive with energy as fans and players alike celebrated the return of competitive hockey.

The Streatham Storm WNIHL/Elite set the tone at Streatham Ice & Leisure Centre, securing a hard-fought 4–2 victory over the Bristol Huskies on Sunday, 7 September. Both teams played with determination, but Streatham’s attacking prowess made the difference, thrilling the home crowd with a well-earned win. The match began at 16:30, drawing supporters eager for the first taste of regular season drama.

Later that day, Streatham’s WNIHL1S squad faced a powerful Firebees side. The Firebees dominated proceedings, netting a remarkable 10 goals to Streatham’s solitary marker. While the scoreline was one-sided, the match showcased the Firebees’ skill and teamwork, setting them up as a squad to watch this season.

Planet Ice Leeds saw its own share of excitement as Leeds Roses and Kingston Diamonds D2a battled to a 2–2 draw on Saturday, 6 September. Both teams traded goals in a closely contested matchup that ended with honours even—a fitting start for two competitive sides aiming to build momentum early in the campaign.

Challenge matches also provided early-season talking points. On Sunday, 31 August, the Firebees faced Sheffield Shadows WNIHL 1 at Slough Ice Arena, followed by Slough Sirens taking on Sheffield Shadows WNIHL 2. The Sirens came out on top in a 5–3 victory, demonstrating both resilience and scoring ability in front of their home supporters.

The opening weekend featured several notable results: Streatham Storm WNIHL/Elite prevailed 4–2 against Bristol Huskies at Streatham Ice & Leisure Centre on 7 September, while on the same day and at the same venue, Streatham Storm WNIHL1S fell 1–10 to the formidable Firebees. Meanwhile, Leeds Roses and Kingston Diamonds D2a played to a 2–2 draw at Planet Ice Leeds on 6 September. In challenge action, Slough Sirens secured a 5–3 win over Sheffield Shadows WNIHL 2 at Slough Ice Arena on 31 August.

Opening weekend highlights included stirring victories and competitive draws, providing fans with plenty to talk about as the season gains momentum. Streatham Storm WNIHL/Elite and the Firebees made statements with decisive wins, while Leeds Roses and Kingston Diamonds D2a proved their mettle in a balanced contest. Slough Sirens started strong in the challenge matches, hinting at more exciting hockey to come.

For more details, team stats, and play-by-play breakdowns, fans can explore the individual match centres throughout the season. With performances like these, the WNIHL promises another unforgettable year for players and supporters alike.