Get ready for a double dose of high-stakes roller hockey action! Paredes is set to become the epicenter of European roller hockey this September. Both the Men’s and Women’s European Championships are coming to town. This major event promises thrilling competition and a historic new feature.
The Portuguese Roller Sports Federation (FPP) shared the news on Friday. They are organizing the championships with World Skate Europe (WSE) and the Paredes City Council. The tournaments will run from September 1st to September 13th. Fans can catch all the excitement at the Rota dos Móveis Pavilion in Lordelo. This venue can hold about 2,000 eager spectators.
Men’s Tournament Kicks Off the Action
The men’s tournament takes the stage first, running from September 1st to September 6th. Portugal’s Men’s National Team, led by coach Paulo Freitas, is in Group A. They will face tough rivals: Spain, France, and Italy. Portugal’s opening match is against Italy on September 1st. They will then play France on September 2nd, followed by Spain on September 3rd.
The group stage wraps up on September 3rd. After that, the knockout rounds begin. Quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the grand final are scheduled between September 4th and 6th. The highly anticipated men’s final is set for September 6th at 9:45 PM. Group B features Switzerland, Germany, Andorra, and Austria, ready to challenge the Group A teams in the elimination phase.
Women’s Teams Ready for Their Turn
The women’s tournament follows immediately, playing from September 8th to September 13th. Portugal’s women’s team also finds itself in Group A. Their group stage opponents are Spain, France, and Italy. Group B includes England, Switzerland, Germany, and the Netherlands. Both Portuguese teams are aiming for glory on home soil.
A New Era for Roller Hockey
This year’s European Championship will feature a significant innovation. For the first time, a video arbitration system, or Video Review System, will be in use. This groundbreaking technology aims to boost transparency and ensure fair calls by referees. It’s a move set to improve sportsmanship and the overall credibility of the competition.
Leaders Speak on Readiness and Vision
Leaders from the organizing bodies expressed their excitement and pride. Luís Sénica, president of the Portuguese Roller Sports Federation, highlighted the strong teamwork. “As we get closer to the European Championship, I am thrilled to see the excellent teamwork,” Sénica stated. He specifically praised World Skate Europe, Paredes City Council, Porto Roller Sports Association, and Sigma Stars. “With teams ready and referees prepared, everything is set for us to celebrate the best of European roller hockey,” he added. He hopes the event will inspire everyone involved.
Orlando Panza, president of WSE Rink Hockey, emphasized Paredes’ pivotal role. “Paredes will be the hub of European roller hockey from September 1st to 13th,” Panza explained. The city hosts the 56th Men’s and 18th Women’s European Championships. He noted the high level of competition and excellent organization. Panza also celebrated the new video review system. He believes it will promote fair play and strengthen the sport’s reputation.
Alexandre Almeida, president of the Paredes City Council, applauded the focus on sports. “With honor, pride, and responsibility, Paredes is ready for the European Championship,” Almeida affirmed. He hopes Paredes will be the setting for Portugal’s victories. “Our investment in big sports events has paid off,” he claimed. Almeida pointed to the Rota dos Móveis Pavilion and the Paredes Multipurpose Hall as examples of top-notch facilities.
How to Watch and Get Tickets
The FPP confirmed that matches will be broadcast live. Fans can tune in on DAZN and WSE TV. For Portugal’s matches, RTP will also provide live coverage.
Tickets for Portugal’s games are already on sale. You can purchase them online at meoblueticket.pt. For all other matches, tickets will be available at the Rota dos Móveis Pavilion box office starting August 29th. Don’t miss out on this fantastic event!