Thunder imports Cole Beckstead, Luke Stegmann and Sam Loiselle will suit up for Canada during the Tasmania fixtures of the international series before returning to New Zealand to continue their commitments in the New Zealand Ice Hockey League.
Their selection places three current NZIHL players on the international stage and highlights the growing calibre of talent competing within New Zealand’s premier ice hockey competition.
Beckstead, from Morrisburg, Ontario, continues to build on an outstanding NZIHL career.
The reigning NZIHL most valuable player is widely regarded as one of the league’s most influential forwards, known for his physical presence, offensive creativity and ability to perform in key moments.
Stegmann, a defenceman from Gatineau, Quebec, has become one of the league’s most dominant two-way players.
His ability to control play from the blue line and transition the puck efficiently has been central to the Thunder’s success.
Loiselle, from La Malbaie, Quebec, has emerged as one of the NZIHL’s most dynamic offensive threats in 2026, combining speed, creativity and finishing ability.
Remarkably, Stegmann and Loiselle currently occupy first and second place respectively on the NZIHL scoring leaderboard, underlining the impact both players continue to have on the competition.
The Ice Hockey Classic opens in Hobart, where MyState Bank Arena will be transformed into an international ice hockey venue for the first time.
The opening three games will be played on July 2, 3 and 4 before the series moves to Melbourne and Canberra.
The Canadian side will be captained by former NHL defenceman Simon Despres, while the US will be led by NHL veteran David Booth.
Ice Hockey Classic director Kerry Goulet said the inclusion of NZIHL players demonstrated the quality of talent now competing throughout the region.
‘‘The Ice Hockey Classic has always been about bringing world-class hockey to new audiences while creating opportunities for players competing in the southern hemisphere,’’ Goulet said.
‘‘We’re excited to have Cole, Luke and Sam represent Team Canada in Hobart. They have all made significant contributions to the growth of the game in New Zealand and are outstanding ambassadors for the sport.’’
Goulet also revealed plans to bring the Ice Hockey Classic to New Zealand in 2027.
“Auckland, Dunedin and Queenstown are all being considered as potential host cities as we actively work towards bringing the Ice Hockey Classic back across the Tasman.
‘‘New Zealand has passionate hockey communities, and based on the response we’ve seen there in the past, we’re confident these events will be a great success.” — Allied Media
