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Puerto Rico becomes 83rd member of International Ice Hockey Federation

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Cooper Godin
September 29, 2022  (8:21 PM)
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The International Ice Hockey Federation announced on Thursday that they are welcoming Puerto Rico as an associate member, becoming the 83rd nation to join.

"We are extremely honoured to be admitted as a member of the IIHF. Our goal is to represent Puerto Rico at the highest level possible on the international stage and this brings us one step closer to doing that," said Scott Vargas, the Executive Director of the PRIHA. "In just 28 months we have accomplished a lot for a small hockey nation and this official recognition will give us a greater ability to grow the game of ice hockey in Puerto Rico."

Until they are a full member, Puerto Rico won't participate in IIHF tournaments such as the World Championship, World Juniors, etc. Once they do become a full member, they would be placed in the lowest division of each IIHF sanctioned tournament.

Puerto Rico isn't a stranger when it comes to hockey. Back in 2006, the capital city of San Juan hosted an NHL pre-season game between the Florida Panthers and New York Rangers.

In addition to welcoming Puerto Rico into the fold, the IIHF Semi-Annual congress announced that Iran has been upgraded to full membership and will be allowed to participate in all sanctioned tournaments.

Source: IIHF