It’s been 27 years since Noway last competed in the top division of the IIHF World Championships. Only one player on Norway’s roster that will compete in the 2025 IIHF World Championships in Czechia was alive the last time Norway played at the highest level. While they’ll be fighting a significant uphill battle, the goal is for Norway to stay in the top division and begin to climb the world rankings.
At the federation level, Norway is looking to improve their development path. This year they became only the second national globally to fully allow bodychecking in women’s hockey following Sweden.
“We have a plan that we are following to constantly recruit more people, while at the same time developing the girls’ ladder in line with the number of athletes. It requires patience and is a long-term effort. We are therefore very pleased with the positive development we have on the girls’ side, which gives us opportunities to take new steps each season,” said Petter Salsten of the Norwegian Ice Hockey Association in a translated news release.
More Talent On Team Norway, But Is It Enough?
Norway continues to be led by Andrea Dalen and Mathea Fischer up front. Dalen is the nation’s second leading scorer all-time and recently won an SDHL title as an integral part of Frolunda. With 13 players on Norway’s roster competing this season in the SDHL or North America, Norway’s roster is gaining experience against stronger competition. The nation is still waiting for their first PWHL player as well. Emma Bergesen is likely to declare for the PWHL Draft this year and could be a depth selection. Millie Rose Sirum, a forward for Norway is also expected to declare.
In net Ena Nystrom is the backbone of this roster providing high end goaltending for the nation.
Norway’s future is already making their way to the senior national team as the nation named several teenagers to their World Championship roster including Tilde Simensen, Tiril Arntzen, and Kajsa Bråten.
