As Heated Rivalry’s seemingly unstoppable press run continues, hype around the Canadian series shows no sign of cooling. Fans have flocked to the show’s steamy, secret romance between two professional ice hockey players, and in the process, many have found themselves newly curious about the sport itself.
Much of the discussion surrounding Heated Rivalry has focused on how it challenges the traditionally hyper-masculine and often exclusionary culture associated with ice hockey. Some fans see it as part of a wider cultural shift towards greater inclusivity within the sport, which has historically struggled with issues of homophobia.
The series has been particularly popular with female viewers. Writing in The Hollywood Reporter, Rachel Reid, author of the novel on which the show is based, suggested that women ‘prefer to get lost in a fantasy where there’s nobody there that they can relate to directly. It just feels safer.’
That’s not to say the growing interest in ice hockey among women can be reduced to queer romance alone. Ice Hockey UK and the Elite Ice Hockey League have publicly criticised a Financial Times article that suggested exactly this, calling it an inaccurate and disrespectful portrayal of female fans. Still, few would deny that Heated Rivalry has created a fresh buzz around the sport.
Even the National Hockey League has leaned into the moment. “There are so many ways to get hooked on hockey and, in the NHL’s 108-year history, this might be the most unique driver for creating new fans,” an NHL spokesperson told The Hollywood Reporter. “See you all at the rink.”
Closer to home, London clubs have been quick to join the conversation. Streatham RedHawks have referenced Heated Rivalry on their Instagram, welcoming new fans with a wink and a nod.
And the good news? You don’t need to be in Canada or the US to experience live ice hockey. London is home to two competitive teams, offering fast-paced action, passionate crowds and a refreshingly affordable night out.
London has two teams to support: the Streatham RedHawks in Division 1, and the Haringey Huskies in Division 2.
Zoe Nicholls, 27, a Heated Rivalry fan and recent ice hockey convert, said: “I never considered watching an ice hockey game in London, but now I know there are teams I can go along and support, I’m really looking forward to making my fan debut at the next game.”
Streatham RedHawks (Streatham Ice Hockey Club)
Founded in 1932, Streatham Ice Hockey Club is one of the oldest ice hockey clubs in the UK. Based in South London, the club prides itself on strong community links and a loyal, vocal fanbase.
“Without our loyal fans, ice hockey in Streatham would not exist!” the club says. “At every game, you bring the noise and support the boys.”
Home ground: Streatham Ice and Leisure Centre
Upcoming home games:
- 1 February: Streatham RedHawks vs Romford Buccaneers
- 7 February: Streatham RedHawks vs Invicta Dynamos
- 1 March: Streatham RedHawks vs Chelmsford Chieftains
- 8 March: Streatham RedHawks vs Slough Jets
- 15 March: Streatham RedHawks vs Swindon Wildcats
- 22 March: Streatham RedHawks vs Solent Devils
More information: London Streatham Ice Hockey (The RedHawks)
Haringey Huskies
The Haringey Huskies were formed in 2017 by Lee Mercer in partnership with Alexandra Palace, the iconic Victorian venue in North London that remains their home rink. The team competes in the National Ice Hockey League, Division 2 South.
Home ground: Alexandra Palace Ice Rink
Upcoming home games:
- 7 February: Cup Game — Haringey Huskies vs Lee Valley Lions
- 14 February: Haringey Huskies vs Peterborough Phantoms
- 28 February: Haringey Huskies vs Invicta Mustangs
- 7 March: Haringey Huskies vs Chelmsford Warriors
- 21 March: Haringey Huskies vs Cardiff Canucks
Full fixture list: Haringey Huskies Ice Hockey at Alexandra Palace
Whether you arrived via a TV drama, a social media post, a long-held love of the sport, or sheer curiosity, London’s ice hockey scene is ready to welcome new fans – North and South of the river. Foam fingers optional.
Feature image: Ice hockey players (Credit: Logan Weaver via Unsplash)
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