Steel Queens forge ice hockey history and inspire new generation

When Caledonia Steel Queens play Guildford Lightning at Murrayfield Ice Arena later, Scottish ice hockey history will be made.

The season opener marks the return of the UK's elite women's league to the country after 32 years.

It's a momentous day for the Steel Queens, who have gone from just seven players in 2017 to becoming the only elite team this side of the border, with more than 120 members.

The club has described the occasion as "the biggest story in UK ice hockey this year", and hopes it will make the sport more accessible for players who often have to travel hundreds of miles to England to play at the top level.

Ice hockey has been enjoying a moment in recent months, possibly thanks to hit TV shows like Heated Rivalry and Off Campus .

But the Steel Queens fell in love with the sport long before it boomed on streaming platforms and TikTok - and they told BBC Scotland News why.

Maya Low was introduced to ice hockey by her Canadian cousins before she picked up a stick herself at the age of 15.

The sport has enabled the 20-year-old to travel around the country and meet new people.

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