Steel Queens forge ice hockey history and inspire new generation
The Caledonia Steel Queens are making history as the first elite women's ice hockey team in Scotland, marking the return of the top-tier league to the country. The team's growth is inspiring a new generation of players, including those overcoming significant personal health challenges.
Why it matters
It highlights the growth of women's sports and the role of community athletics in personal recovery and social inclusion.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Andrea Racekova BBC Scotland, Murrayfield Alan Blakeley Caledonia Steel Queens are the only Scottish team in the UK's top women's ice hockey league When Caledonia Steel Queens play Guildford Lightning at Murrayfield Ice Arena later, Scottish ice hockey history will be made.
The season opener marks the return of the UK's elite women's league to the country after 32 years.
It's a momentous day for the Steel Queens, who have gone from just seven players in 2017 to becoming the only elite team this side of the border, with more than 120 members.
The club has described the occasion as "the biggest story in UK ice hockey this year", and hopes it will make the sport more accessible for players who often have to travel hundreds of miles to England to play at the top level.
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