Koitmaa: if we hadn't won with this team, we would have had to look in the mirror
The Estonian women's ice hockey team secured their advancement to a higher level by defeating the Philippines in a decisive match at the World Championship.
The Estonian women's national ice hockey team achieved a significant victory against the Philippines, scoring nine unanswered goals during a match in the B group of the third division World Championship held in Kohtla-Järve. This win not only showcased their dominance on the ice but also underscored their successful campaign, which had already ensured their promotion to a higher tier for next year. The standout performance was by Aleksandra Stolyarova, who netted four goals in the match, bringing her total to 14 for the tournament.
Head coach Villem-Henrik Koitmaa expressed that the team’s ultimate goal was not just to win the tournament but to prepare for the next World Championship. He indicated that their focus was shifting towards maintaining their place at the next level, emphasizing that their recent performance served as a foundation for upcoming challenges. Koitmaa’s message was well received by the players, who demonstrated their readiness and determination in this match, aiming for survival in the upcoming competition.
This victory is momentous for Estonian ice hockey, as it marks a step forward for women's sports in the country. With the team’s successful tournament behind them, they are now gearing up for the future, setting higher standards and expectations as they work towards solidifying their position among the elite in women’s ice hockey. The combination of skill shown in this match and a clear vision from the coaching staff sets a promising stage for the Estonian women's team moving forward.