Beevers' plans won't be on ice for much longer!

University life offers students more than the chance of a good education and decent degree. Of course there is all the drinking and partying to do, but what about sports?

It's fine if football, rugby or cricket is your game but what if your interests are far more diverse? What if it's ice hockey that you're into?

That was the quandary for Adam Beevers on his return to Uni after a work placement year in Birmingham.

Beevers, 25, has been playing ice hockey for four years, including appearances for the Solihull Wolves on his placement.

His love for the sport has inspired him to attempt to create a team for the University.

He said: "I've been skating since I was two and my older brother, who was into ice and roller hockey, taught me to play.

"When we were kids we started a roller hockey league in the area (Beevers is from North Wales) and with the help of parents went from three teams to 12."

The architect student believes the Wayne's World generation is responsible for his interest.

Beevers, however, faces a tough task. There are a number of obstacles to overcome including financing the team, arranging training and finding enough competent players as well as a qualified coach.

He explained: "We can't start this season because the Student's Union hasn't got any of its budget left, but we're hopeful for next year. The American football team, who are in their first year, got pounds 3,000 and we'd be hopeful to get a similar amount.

"There is also a possibility we could share their name, the Huddersfield Hawks, and their sponsorship with Visage."

Kitting the players is the primary reason for the financial difficulties as a goalkeeper's kit can cost more than pounds 500.

But Beevers has suggested solutions to these problems.

He said: "Players can buy parts of their own kit and there are second-hand kits available."

Training facilities have also proved difficult to organise.

Beevers said: "Manchester ice rink is being redeveloped so all their players have booked time at Bradford, which is where we are due to train."

With the work at Manchester due to be completed soon, he is confident training can start and is excited at the prospect.

"We've got four or five who have played before and interest from about 30 people."

Beevers is also eyeing the return of who he calls 'our best player', Phil Hesketh.

Hesketh is currently studying in America, while continuing to play and should be back for the 2007-08 campaign.

But Beevers is unconcerned by the lack of experience among the newcomers.

He insisted: "Most people are new to the sport, but it's better to have lots of new players rather than a few, so everyone can learn together."

Every team also needs a coach and Beevers hopes to able to fulfil that role soon.

He said: "I have a roller hockey coaching qualification but that's not recognised, so I'm taking the course later this year."

Beevers' determination is creditable and added: "The problem while we're not playing or training is keeping people interested, but I'm confident that a team will be formed."