Benji and Charlie Labradors bring hockey dogs fandom to England

Dog O’Day talks to Benji and Charlie Labradors about how a pair of British dogs got into following the sport of ice hockey. Turns out, it’s a family connection. 

Dog O’Day – How did you and your family get involved in ice hockey? We didn’t know it existed in England until you mentioned it.

Benji and Charlie Labradors – Dad has watched hockey since he was a teenager, and his first “official” date with Mum was to watch an ice hockey game; the Sheffield Steeldogs vs the Manchester Phoenix.

What are some of Dad’s career highlights?

From a hockey perspective Dad’s highlights are playing for Team Great Britain in the 2006 Paralympic Games in Turin and 2009 World and 2011 European Championships. He retired in 2011 and then in 2013 he helped create the Widnes Wild who won 4 trophies in 3 seasons including the league and playoff double in the 2018/19 season. You can read more about Dad on his Wikipedia page.

It’s worth knowing Mum and Dad got married on the ice at Widnes Ice Rink in 2015 and as part of the wedding celebrations they hosted a pre-season friendly (exhibition game) between the Widnes Wild and the Altrincham Aces (the Wild won 2-0).

Could you tell us more about Dad’s team, the Widnes Wild?

The YKK Widnes Wild were created in 2013 and entered the English National League North Division 2.  They are the most successful team in the league, although last season they had their worst league season in years, when they finished fourth. Dad was upset but said it was because they had played less games than anyone else before the league ended early due to COVID-19.

Do you have a favorite National Hockey League team you follow?

We’re Edmonton Oilers fans.