Ice Hockey Victoria Statement - Tange 2026

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Ice Hockey Victoria acknowledges Ice Hockey Australia’s recent statement regarding the disqualification of the Victorian 18U Tange Team at the 2026 National Championships.

IHV remains fully supportive of the players, coaches, team officials and families affected by this decision. The team represented Victoria with skill, commitment, maturity and class throughout the tournament, including under extremely difficult circumstances following the semi-final.

We also recognise the significant emotional impact the decision has had on the players and those who support them.

IHV is continuing to review the relevant facts, registration processes, communications and application of the tournament regulations. There remain important matters requiring clarification.

Our focus is constructive. We will engage with IHA to better understand what occurred, identify any gaps in process and support improvements that reduce the risk of a similar outcome in future tournaments.

This approach should not be interpreted as acceptance of every aspect of IHA’s public account, nor does it prevent affected players, families or team officials from raising their own concerns through appropriate channels.

IHV asks the hockey community to continue supporting the team and to allow this work to proceed in a calm, respectful and coordinated manner.

- Ice Hockey Victoria Executive