Bulgaria has made a significant mark in the world of women’s hockey by securing promotion in the IIHF Women’s World Championship. The team finished at the top of the Division III Group B World Championship held in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, showcasing their talent and determination.

Key Takeaways

  • Bulgaria won the Division III Group B World Championship.
  • The team achieved a record of three wins and one loss in the tournament.
  • Maria Runevska was the standout player, leading the tournament in scoring.
  • Bulgaria will be promoted to a higher tier in the IIHF World Championships.

Tournament Overview

Bulgaria’s journey in the tournament began with a strong performance against Israel, where they secured a 5-2 victory. This was followed by a commanding 6-0 win over Singapore. Despite a close 4-3 overtime loss to the host nation, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria bounced back to clinch their promotion with a decisive 5-3 win over Estonia.

Bulgaria’s Young Talent

One of the most remarkable aspects of Bulgaria’s team was their youth. The squad was the youngest in the tournament, with all but three players still in their teenage years. This youthful energy and talent were pivotal in their success.

  • Top Scorer: Maria Runevska, 19 years old, led the tournament with five goals and a total of 11 points across four games.
  • Best Forward: Runevska was also awarded the tournament’s Best Forward for her outstanding performance.

Notable Performances

While Bulgaria’s team shone brightly, other players also made significant contributions:

  • Lior Lesham: The 16-year-old Israeli defender, playing for the Dallas Stars Elite 16-U team, led all defensemen in scoring with 10 points in four games.
  • Aleksandra-Olga Seppar: The Estonian veteran was recognized as the Best Defender of the tournament.
  • Yael Fatiev: The Ontario Hockey Academy goaltender posted an impressive .948 save percentage, showcasing her skills between the pipes.
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Future Prospects

With this promotion, Bulgaria will move up from the bottom tier in the IIHF World Championships. They will be replaced by a nation that gets relegated from the upcoming Division IIIA World Championships, which will take place next month in Belgrade, Serbia. The teams competing for relegation include Croatia, Lithuania, Romania, Serbia, South Africa, and Thailand.

Bulgaria’s success in Sarajevo not only highlights their current capabilities but also sets a promising foundation for the future of women’s hockey in the country. As they prepare for the challenges ahead, the team and its supporters are filled with hope and excitement for what lies ahead in the IIHF World Championship landscape.

Sources

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