Funding boost for ice hockey stars

SOLWAY Sharks Ladies Ice Hockey Team has received £2,500 funding as part of an Aldi Scotland initiative. The supermarket has invested £6,500 in seven local sports clubs across South Scotland as part of its annual Scottish Sport Fund. Applications open throughout the year in different regions across Scotland, calling on local teams to apply for funding. Solway Sharks Ladies were awarded £2,500 – the highest funding available. Founded in 2013, the club is an all-female side based at the Dumfries Ice Bowl, where girls aged 14 and over can discover their passion for the sport in a welcoming and inclusive environment. Players start at open development sessions, mastering the fundamentals of skating and hockey, and can progress through the club’s pathway to compete at the highest level in the Women’s National First Division (WNIHL 1). The club has a proud record of nurturing talent, with several players going on to represent Great Britain at under-16 and under-18 level. The club plans to use the funding from Aldi Scotland to help cover on and off ice running costs such as game and referee fees, transport to away fixtures, kits and training aids. The past decade has seen Aldi Scotland support over 650 clubs across Scotland, giving away almost £500,000. Lee Simpson, Solway Sharks Ladies Ice Hockey Team said: “We are incredibly grateful for the generous support from Aldi Scotland. Our team is more than just a club, it is a place where girls can develop their skills, build confidence, and enjoy being part of a supportive community. “Watching our players grow from their first steps on the ice to competing at a national level is something we are immensely proud of. “This funding will help cover essential on and off ice running costs and allow us to look at holding training camps and further development sessions in 2026.”