A GROUP of female ice hockey players have got their kit off to help raise the profile of their club.
The Milton Keynes Falcons play at the highest level of British ice hockey for women, and have just released a calendar for 2013 to raise awareness and money for the team.
The club relies on sponsorship and fundraising activities by its members to continue playing, and competing in the English Women’s Premier League, the Falcons travel as far as north Sheffield and Kingston upon Hull to play games.
Formed 13 years ago, the Falcons have been very successful – winning Division One South three times before eventually securing their place in the top flight through a promotion play-off.
Now in their second year of Premiership ice hockey, the team came up with the idea of raising funds by selling a calendar, now available at the Calendar Club stand in thecentre:mk on Midsummer Arcade, next to Destination Dining. Calendars can also be purchased on eBay by searching ‘MK Falcons calendar’.
Natalie Bullen, a player with the club since it was formed in 1999, hopes the lighthearted idea will help raise the profile of women’s ice hockey in Milton Keynes.
She said: “We’re the only women’s team of any sport in Milton Keynes that play at a Premiership level, but the team is self-funded and relies heavily on sponsorship and fundraising to be able to play.
“Due to an increase in ice hire costs and match fees during these difficult economic times, funds are extremely tight, so the team have found a fun, exciting way to raise money for the club.
“Many members give up their free time to play, coach and manage the team, and all proceeds from the calendar sales will help the team to keep playing for seasons to come.”
The Falcons’ next home game will be played at Planet Ice on Sunday, December 2.
Comments