Pride Match set for Melbourne Ice Women v Adelaide Rush at O’Brien Icehouse
Women’s ice hockey will take centre stage when Melbourne Ice Women skate in their Pride Match against Adelaide Rush. The fixture is scheduled for Saturday, 31st Januar,y with puck drop at 5:00pm. The match forms part of the team’s Pride Round.
The Pride Match will be played at O’Brien Icehouse in The District Docklands. The venue serves as the training and match base for Melbourne Ice Women. The event places women’s competition at the forefront of a growing national ice hockey calendar.
Melbourne Ice Women enter the match led by captain Steph Cochrane. Cochrane also captains the Australian women’s ice hockey team. Her leadership has coincided with increased visibility for women’s participation in the sport.
Ice hockey has recorded rising attendance and attention in recent seasons. This growth has been driven by interstate rivalries, expanded competition schedules and broader exposure. As a result, women’s fixtures have gained stronger recognition within the sport.
The Pride Match aligns with ongoing efforts to support inclusive participation. Melbourne Ice Women partner with Proud2Play, a national organisation focused on inclusive sporting environments for LGBTQIA+ communities. The partnership supports Pride Round activities across the season.
Steph Cochrane said Pride Round carried significance for the team and the wider ice hockey community.
“This match is about visibility, belonging and backing women who are giving everything to play the sport they love,” Ms Cochrane said.
“The more people who show up, the stronger the future of women’s ice hockey in Australia becomes.”
Players will wear specially designed Pride jerseys during the match. Following the game, the jerseys will be auctioned. Proceeds from the auction will support inclusive sport initiatives.
Pride Match partnerships and local support
The District Docklands and O’Brien Icehouse continue to support Melbourne Ice Women. Both organisations play a role in providing facilities and event infrastructure. Their involvement contributes to the team’s ability to train and compete locally.
Jonathon Codman, Director of Precincts at The District Docklands, said backing the team reflected investment in women’s sport.
“These athletes train and compete right here at The District, and we’re proud to support their journey,” Mr Codman said.
“Women’s ice hockey deserves packed stands, loud crowds and long-term backing, and Pride Round is the perfect opportunity for people to come down and be part of it.”
Community and commercial support remain key factors in sustaining competition pathways. Ongoing backing helps ensure athletes can continue to compete at a high level. It also supports development opportunities for future players entering the sport.
The Pride Match represents a scheduled interstate contest within the women’s ice hockey season. Melbourne Ice Women and Adelaide Rush maintain a competitive rivalry. The fixture adds to a calendar that continues to expand across Australia.
Location: O’Brien Icehouse, The District Docklands
Date: Saturday 31st January
Time: 5:00pm
Tickets: Available via TryBooking
