Nottingham Panthers

 

 

 

Nobody likes being interrupted, but when the interruption is World War II you can't really argue. After several aborted attempts, The Nottingham Panthers was finally formed in 1946. Home fixtures were played at the old Ice Stadium (built in 1936) which was demolished and replaced by the plush National Ice Stadium in 2000. 

Considering the modern team's ferocious rivalry with the Sheffield Steelers, many fans might be surprised to discover that the Panthers were actually resurrected by Sheffieldonians. The old Panthers had disbanded in 1960 when the British National League ceased operations, but in 1980 a group of players and officials from the Sheffield Lancers moved to the midlands and brought the old brand back into play.

Now sponsored by the GMB Union, the Panthers attract a fantastic, fanatical following who somehow manage to garner an atmosphere that's both passionate but family-friendly.
 

Follow Panthers on Twitter @GMBPanthers