mihwa 2024 world cup

Today kicks off the start of the Masters Inline Hockey World Association Championships in Jaco, Spain. For those who aren't familiar with MIHWA, it is the biggest international inline hockey tournament for the Masters, Veterans, and Legends of inline hockey. In association with FIRS, David Ninzatti met with several other board members for a "special meeting" in which they discussed the passion for the game and ways to bring the MVL (Masters, Veterans, Legends) to a World Cup status. By providing resources and offering great service to everyone involved, the organization has created a quality tournament far beyond the traditional standard of inline hockey. They started meeting with referees, managers, and several different countries to develop a plan of attack and create an electric atmosphere. MIHWA has also done a tremendous job with their partners such as; Bauer, Labeda Hockey, Stilmat, Champion Hockey and Joker Floors. At Rollerdad News we want to take a deep dive into each division based off the results of last year and prior history.

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Masters

I remember watching last years event and thinking to myself, I want to play on this team one day. The camaraderie that every team showed was truly amazing. The games were competitive, guys were laying out to block shots and most importantly, showing pride in their country. In the World Rankings, Team USA currently sits at the top of the board for the Masters Division. USA is always a threat in these tournaments at every level and this year is no different with a stacked roster featuring players like Andy Cripps, Juaquin Chavira, JP Susco, Jim McGrath and Skyler Hoar. All of these players have played pro in their careers and have been staples in the inline hockey community. They will take on Spain in the opening game which will be a huge test facing a team in their home country. Aside from Team USA both (2nd) Canada  and (3rd)France are forces this year. Canada has two of their most recognized players in Dave Hammond and Kyle Henderson locking it down for the true north. Both Henderson and Hammond are leaders for this group doing anything it takes to win. Meanwhile, France has a deep roster that can skate with any team in the tournament. France has a systematic approach that makes every game a battle. I think their biggest strength is in net with both Ozouf and Proteau.

Champion Prediction - I think Team USA is too deep and has too many weapons this year. With a star studded line up and leadership, they are 100% the favorite in this years event. I will place Canada in 2nd and France in 3rd. 

Veterans

The Vets are already on their way with 4 games played. USA, Canada, Czechia, Sweden all have secure wins in their first games. As of last year the World Rankings have (1st) France (2nd) USA (3rd) Canada and its worth mentioning (4th) Czechia. France along with USA and Canada hold a top 3 spot in each division.Team France's Veteran team may be the strongest of them all. IN their first game they will take on a rival in Italy who has already suffered a lost. As most teams from France, they pride themselves on their skating and structure. There is a very specific break-out Team France runs and it can be a nightmare if you aren't ready to skate. Both USA and Canada will be tough tests for France as they have deep rosters that can score at will. 

Champion Prediction - I think USA makes its way to the top after missing out last year. Yes, this is somewhat bias, but USA is desperate for a Gold Medal in this division. Scott Slone is between the pipes and has been playing unbelievable the past year and is my pick for the X-Factor in this years event. I think France falls to the 3rd seed and Canada will take 2nd. 

Legends

Now last, but certainly not least. The Legends of inline hockey. This is another division that has three games played thus far with USA, Canada and France all finding themselves in the win column. USA had an absolute blow against Australia, meanwhile both Canada and France in somewhat closer games winning 6-2 (Canada v Germany) and 5-3 (France v Spain).  Last years ranking have (1st) France (2nd) Canada (3rd) USA. USA had a heartbreaking lost in 2023 and are looking to come back with a vengeance. We recently spoke with Daryn Goodwin on the RDN Roller show and he was extremely excited about this roster. With a +11 GD to start the tournament, they are the heavy favorites thus far. Don't look too far as Canada has a deep roster that is physical and skilled. Mike Hunt, Phil Boudreault and Eric Vilio all are names that stand out on the roster. Vilio , you may recognize from his sons who play in the NSIHL for the Vancouver Blazers. If Eric is anything like his sons, GOOD LUCK. 

Champion Predictions - I am going for the clean sweep (though unlikely) with Team USA taking home the third and final Gold Medal. Yes, this is bias, but what did you expect? In all seriousness, I think USA has the best roster they've had in years. They're deep, mean, skilled and most importantly a FAMILY. I can't see them suffering pain like last year again, which is why I will be picking them to bring home Gold!