Every December, around 3,000 spectators gather to experience the Ice Hockey Uni-Cup as a highlight of the winter semester. As usual, tickets sold out completely within minutes, as the EUC is well-known for its electrifying atmosphere, unique shows, and exciting games. RWTH Rector Prof. Dr. Ulrich Rüdiger has been a proud visitor of the event for years: “Even during my own student days, I witnessed the early beginnings of the Ice Hockey Uni-Cup. What was once a small tournament has now become an identity-shaping tradition for the entire RWTH Aachen.”
thyssenkrupp Trophy & the Cheer Cup
In the end, the Medical Strikers from the student body of Medicine secured the coveted thyssenkrupp Trophy with 33 points. The Aachen Steelers (Mechanical Engineering) took second place with 13 points, while the ET-Lions finished third with 7 points. In cheerleading, the Aachen Steelers claimed victory.
Costumes on the Ice
Not only the cheerleaders’ spectacular choreographies and the gripping duels between the faculties captivated the audience. The secret costumes unveiled by the teams each year also generated plenty of excitement. The Aachen Steelers sped across the ice dressed as elves and Christmas trees. The Medical Strikers enchanted the arena with a Harry Potter theme, while the ET-Lions brought a touch of summer to this winter-semester highlight.
The RWTH Aachen University Sports Center (HSZ) organized this large-scale event together with the three participating student bodies—Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Medicine. For HSZ director Judith Blau, it was her first University Ice Hockey Cup, and she followed the action with great anticipation: “It is especially wonderful to see how the three student bodies bring this impressive event to life together with the HSZ.”
Aachen Ice-Emperors Win the Opening Match
The evening of the 35th University Ice Hockey Cup kicked off with an action-packed opening match: the “Aachen Ice-Emperors” faced the “Nottingham Mavericks” in a thrilling duel, which ended with a final score of 8 to 4 in favor of the Aachen team. Markus Moser, representative of the Aachen ice hockey team, expressed his delight about the international exchange made possible each year by the Ice Hockey Uni-Cup.
Respect in University Sports
To ensure an unforgettable evening for all participants, the Sports Department attended with an on-site awareness team. “Respectful interaction should not only be expected at major events like the EUC, but also in everyday university life in Aachen. For this reason, we launched a new project together with the HSZ: Respect in University Sports,” reported Janine Weide from the Aachen Sports Department.
Sponsores
Each year, the RWTH University Sports Center is grateful for the support of various sponsors who help ensure the success of this iconic event. Thyssenkrupp Steel has been involved for more than 20 years and also lends its name to the trophy. Lisa Ollesch praised the vibrant atmosphere at this unique event and the long-standing cooperation with the HSZ. The University Ice Hockey Cup also received support from long-time partner STAWAG, as well as ABB Group and NetAachen, who enabled the livestream.
Donation Recipients
Traditionally, a portion of the event’s proceeds is donated to two charitable organizations. For 17 years, part of the donation has gone to the organization “Right to Play.” Misbah Hina, a coach at Right To Play Pakistan, reported on the project: “Through our sports programmes, we give children the opportunity to develop themselves and stand up for their own rights.” The other part of the donation goes to the Kai Havertz Foundation in Aachen. This year’s contribution will support Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice in London, explained Lea Havertz, Managing Director of the Kai Havertz Foundation.
The University Sports Center looks back proudly on an eventful 35th Ice Hockey Uni-Cup and is already looking forward to lacing up the skates again next year.
Further information and photos from the event can be found on the event page.