Ice-hockey gaining popularity

Chris Gatt is an ice-hockey player, formerly of Toronto team Canadian Blackhawks. He first became interested in the sport when still a young boy.

"I started learning to skate at the age of three because it's a normal run of the mill for Canadians to do so. Later on I became involved in other related sport such as ice-hockey and figure-skating.

"Ice-hockey is supposed to be the number one sport in Canada but La Cross seems to be popular as well. La Cross (field hockey) is different to ice-hockey. Players here can use one side of the stick and is played on grass whereas the more physical ice-hockey is played on ice and players can use both sides of the stick," Gatt said.

But in 1992, an injury forced Gatt to stay away from playing his much-loved sport for quite a while. His doctor recommended that warm weather would help to make the injury heal faster and it was here that Gatt decided to come and live in Malta, along with his parents.

He never gave up hope and two years later he started playing again with Solihull Barrons in the UK. Then he moved to Holland where he joined the Dutch Vipers.

Now, he is organising SkolaSport events at the Eden Ice Arena, St Julian's, for children aged between 10 and 15 years. He has also organised two men's ice-hockey leagues, one of which is currently underway.

"A SkolaSport activity was held at the Ice-Arena a few weeks ago and it was quite successful. Parents also showed great enthusiastic on their children's participation in a sport which has only been introduced after the first ice arena was built not long ago," he said.

"Ice-hockey seems to be increasing in popularity, provided the ice arena stays! I get plenty of feedback from parents who are highly interested in involving their children in sport, one practical way of helping the little 'trouble-makers' off the streets," Gatt added.

Gatt said that another SkolaSport ice-hockey activity will be held between June and July. The winners here will be presented with medals and trophies. To avoid any mishaps, ice-hockey games for children are "no contact" ones.

Also, for those who are interested in figure-skating, a 10-week course will be held at the ice arena soon.

Sessions will be under the guidance of a professional figure-skater.