Fletchers Group announces sponsorship of the North West’s only para ice hockey club

Fletchers Group has announced a new sponsorship deal with Manchester Mayhem, a para ice hockey club offering disabled and able-bodied people the opportunity to play hockey in the North West.

The sponsorship will enable the team to train more regularly, free up more funds to pay for kit and equipment, plus go towards an end of season tournament.

Manchester Mayhem trains and plays competitive matches at Planet Ice in Widnes against teams from Peterborough, Cambridge, Cardiff and Sheffield. The club is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year but has faced financial challenges in recent times on the back of spiralling costs and the rise in energy bills, which the rink has tried to absorb but, as ice time increases, this has proved difficult to sustain.

Kirsty Thomas Horton, Fletchers Group Head of Charities and Partnerships says: “We are thrilled to be sponsoring Manchester Mayhem, particularly at a time when the club has had to deal with so many financial pressures that have impacted on the club’s future. We hope that our support will enable them additional ice time to pursue their ambitions and compete with the best in the UK.

“Fletchers Group is always looking for ways to expand our reach by giving back to the community and as a business with several hockey fans, we’re excited to be part of the team’s journey and look forward to cheering them on!”

Para ice hockey has been a Paralympic sport since the Lillehammer 1994 Winter Paralympics. Players use double-blade sledges and two sticks, which have a spike-end for pushing and a blade-end for shooting.

Peter Hagan, Manchester Mayhem’s Chairman says: “We are delighted to be partnering with Fletchers Group at such an important time for the club. Having this support will enable us to focus our attention on the ice as we look at the season ahead with such a spirted team. Para ice hockey is a fantastic and truly inclusive sport that anyone can play with or without a disability and at all ages, and we really want to share the joy and passion of the sport with as many people as possible.”

Manchester Mayhem’s next game for the club is on Sunday 16th July at Planet Ice in Widnes.