The first International Youth Ice Hockey Tournament opens in Shenyang, Northeast China’s Liaoning province, on Oct 1, attracting teenage players from Russia and China to compete against foreign teams. [Photo/Xinhua]

The first International Youth Ice Hockey Tournament attracted teenage players from Russia and China to compete in Shenyang, Northeast China’s Liaoning province, from Oct 1 to 3.

With the support of the local sports authority and ice hockey association, the event involved more than 10 domestic and foreign groups.

“Ever since Beijing won the bid to host the 2022 Winter Olympic Games, ice hockey fever has spread across China,” said the general manager of the ice rink where the tournament was held.

“The event will help to develop winter sports in Shenyang through exchanges with Russia.”

Statistics reveal that more than 1,000 teenagers are now learning to play ice hockey in Shenyang, demonstrating the sport’s strong momentum.