The UK Ice Hockey Players Association (UKIHPA) is a newly established, independent, not-for-profit organisation built by those with lived experience of the game.
We are player-led and welfare-driven - committed to raising standards across UK ice hockey by placing wellbeing, safeguarding, transparency, and duty of care at the heart of the sport.
We are independent of clubs and governing bodies. Our sole focus is the people within the game.
We are proud to have ambassador roles that have been individually chosen to represent each generation of British ice hockey.
Collectively, our experience spans seven decades of the sport, giving UKIHPA a strong and knowledgeable voice to represent and support its members.
From GB Senior athletes and GB coaches, to reporters, semi-professional players, junior representatives, and those with experience across all levels of the game, our foundation is built on genuine understanding and lived experience.
Our approach has been carefully considered, with a clear mindset: to advise, support, and represent everyone associated with UKIHPA and the wider British ice hockey community.
Our overseas representatives, particularly those based in Canada, bring a wealth of respected experience from the highest levels of the game.
From Stanley Cup success to coaching at Olympic level with Team Canada, their knowledge and achievements provide UKIHPA with valuable insight, guidance, and opportunity.
Having trusted and well-respected leaders from the world of ice hockey is extremely important to us as UKIHPA continues to grow. Experience is key, and by drawing on knowledge from every aspect of the sport, we are better placed to advise, support, and create opportunities for our members.
The team behind UKIHPA
Meet the directors
UKIHPA is led by individuals with lived experience of the game, professional backgrounds outside of sport, and a shared commitment to raising standards across UK ice hockey.
Together, the directors bring credibility, integrity, and a clear vision for the future of player welfare and representation.
Gareth Hale
DIRECTOR
Gareth has been immersed in UK ice hockey since the 1990s, beginning as a supporter of the MK Kings before following the sport through its evolution in Solihull with the Kings and Barons.
With decades of involvement around the game and extensive experience supporting players behind the scenes, Gareth brings both passion and perspective to UKIHPA. His background in business provides a measured, strategic approach to governance, structure, and long-term sustainability.
Having witnessed first-hand the challenges faced by players at all levels - particularly around welfare, duty of care, and support beyond the rink - Gareth was driven to establish UKIHPA as a credible, independent body that places people before politics.
His vision is simple: to ensure that no player, official, or family member in UK ice hockey is ever left without support or a voice.
Marc Twaite
DIRECTOR
Marc Twaite brings elite-level playing experience and lived resilience to UKIHPA.
A GB Senior International, Marc competed at the highest levels of British ice hockey across multiple UK leagues, including the prestigious Superleague. His career reflects dedication, professionalism, and a deep understanding of the demands placed on players at the very top of the game.
However, Marc’s journey also highlights the realities many athletes face behind the scenes.
Following a life-threatening injury that ultimately forced his early retirement from professional ice hockey, Marc experienced first-hand the challenges of transition out of the sport. The sudden loss of identity, structure, and support led to a difficult period where life after hockey spiralled — an experience far too common in elite sport.
His story is not one of weakness — it is one of awareness.
It exposed a critical gap: the absence of an independent, player-led voice to support athletes through injury, crisis, transition, and life beyond the rink.
Marc’s lived experience is a driving force behind UKIHPA’s commitment to:
• Player welfare and safeguarding
• Mental health advocacy
• Duty of care reform
• Support beyond the final buzzer
He stands as proof that success on the ice does not remove vulnerability off it — and that British ice hockey must do better in protecting its own.
Marc’s passion for building a stronger, safer future for players across all levels of the game is central to UKIHPA’s mission.
One Game. One Family. One Association.
Scott Plews
DIRECTOR
Scott is a former professional ice hockey player who competed at both club and national level, bringing elite playing experience and international representation to the board of UKIHPA.
With strong Scottish roots and a deep understanding of the northern hockey landscape, Scott provides a direct connection to players, clubs, and communities across Scotland and the wider North of the United Kingdom.
Since concluding his professional playing career, Scott has remained actively involved in the sport through coaching and mentorship, maintaining close relationships within the game and continuing to support player development at grassroots and senior levels.
His lived experience - from professional competition to coaching leadership - ensures that UKIHPA remains grounded in the realities of modern ice hockey. Scott is committed to strengthening player welfare standards and ensuring members across all regions feel represented, supported, and heard.
ABOUT UKIHPA
Our Purpose
We are structured as a Company Limited by Guarantee, operating on a not-for-profit basis, with governance and transparency at our core.
UKIHPA operates independently from clubs, leagues, and governing bodies. We are committed to constructive collaboration - but our primary responsibility will always be to our members.
Our values
Integrity – We act independently and ethically.
Transparency – We operate openly and responsibly.
Welfare First – Player safety and wellbeing come before all else.
Inclusivity – All ages, levels, and genders are supported.
Respect – For the game and everyone within it.
Independence
Our Purpose
UKIHPA operates independently from clubs, leagues, and governing bodies.
We are committed to constructive collaboration - but our primary responsibility will always be to our members.
MEMBERSHIP
Why JOIN UKIHPA?
Membership gives you access to independent support, guidance, and representation.