Jēkabpils hosts hockey tournament bringing Latvia’s defenders together

Latvia’s National Armed Forces has held its annual “For Latvia!” hockey tournament in Jēkabpils for the first time, bringing together representatives of defence and security institutions, NATO allies and local players, LSM reported.

The two-day tournament is being held for the third year in a row to mark the start of Latvia’s national celebration month. Previous editions took place in Rēzekne and Liepāja. Eight teams are competing this year, with organisers saying the event also aims to strengthen cooperation and ties with the public.

The tournament opened with the Latvian and Canadian national anthems. Agnis Šteinbergs, a senior sergeant in the National Armed Forces Staff Battalion, said the participation of Canadian forces reflected their strong hockey tradition. Sebastien Foche, a logistics specialist with Task Force Latvia, said he was glad to play alongside Latvians and experience something new.

State Police Chief Armands Ruks said the event offered a chance for people who serve together to meet in a different setting. He said participants could show the public that they are not only service members but also people who enjoy sport and friendly competition.

The tournament also drew Jēkabpils residents who had not previously visited the city’s ice rink. Women took part among the players, too.