Great Britain has enjoyed unprecedented success in this season's Champions Hockey League. First, the Nottingham Panthers beat Mountfield HK away, then backed it up at home with an OT win - and then beat Swiss champions SC Bern 4-2. A day later, the Cardiff Devils beat HC Davos in OT to help push the league up a couple of places in the CHL League Ranking system.
We asked Elite League Chairman Tony Smith for his thoughts on the exploits of British teams so far.
"It's been absolutely fantastic! It's a great achievement for both of the UK teams and also for the EIHL. They've played very well, really good hockey, and done themselves and the league very proud," he began.
The wins have made waves around Europe, but as explained it's also helping to raise the brand at home, too.
"Firstly, it confirms to the fans that what they see in the UK is great hockey. We have very educated fans in the UK, and they know what's good hockey and what isn't, and what they watch in the Elite League is good hockey," explains Tony. "It also puts into context for them where our league fits in Europe. Five years ago, most teams were carrying three lines; now we're seeing teams playing four line hockey so the fans are seeing excellent games."
GMs, players, and coaches often talk about learning from the best, and it's something that all teams from the UK have noted as part of the Champions Hockey League.
"Obviously, you enjoy the experience. We have been able to have some excellent teams visit us, but of course, you want to win games too," says Smith, owner of the Sheffield Steelers, who beat Red Bull Salzburg last season. "We look at what these teams do, how they're organised, and try to bring back the good things and replicate that in our own teams and the league as a whole."
"It would be the greatest achievement so far if Nottingham qualified for the next round"Tony Smith (Elite League Chairman)
Aside from on-ice, the off-ice has also been pleasing for both UK teams with good crowds coming to these early-season games.
"It's what we're here for. We're all businessmen and want to see rinks and arenas full. Attendances in the Elite League were up last season, and they've increased now three years in a row," he explains. "This isn't by accident, you have to put a good product out there, and I believe the product is getting better all the time. Fans know now that weekend nights are hockey nights."
Finally, what would it mean to the league if Nottingham were to make it through the group stage?
"It would be the greatest achievement so far for the Elite League if Nottingham got to the 'last 16'. They're a great organisation; Neil Black (Owner) is part of the European Hockey Alliance and the IIHF now so is very close to what's happening in Europe, and I'm very pleased for the organisation to have this chance to get through to the next round. It sends the message that the UK league is getting better, and I believe will continue to do. I would be thrilled if they can make it," the league Chairman concluded.