The U-18 Asian Hockey Cup started in Bishkek

The 2026 IIHF U18 Asia Cup, held under the auspices of the International Hockey Federation, started in Bishkek on the ice «Nomad Arena».Six teams are taking part in the tournament: Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Mongolia, India, Indonesia and Macau (China). During the week, teams will compete for the main trophy, demonstrating various playing styles — from technical hockey to power and dynamic play.The opening ceremony was held with the participation of officials and included a parade of teams and a concert program, which set a solemn atmosphere for the competition.As part of the group stage, a match has already taken place between the national teams of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. The match was attended by the rector of the university Sergei Volkov, supporting the tournament participants.Particular attention to the tournament at the Kyrgyz-Russian Slavic University is due to the fact that the captain of the junior team of Kyrgyzstan is first-year student of the Faculty of Economics Dmitry Shumakov.The participation of the KRSU student in international competitions of this level reflects the growing involvement of young people in professional sports and confirms the potential of the national hockey school.The U-18 Asian Cup is held in accordance with IIHF international standards and is seen as an important platform for the development of hockey in the region, as well as preparing young athletes to perform at a higher level.