On the tournament's first rest day, Tuesday, Mayor Birgit S. Hansen invited representatives from the U18 World Ice Hockey Championships to a reception in the council chamber. See pictures from the reception here.

There were speeches and an exchange of gifts, and the most touching moment came when a representative from Ukraine spoke about their participation despite the war and destruction.

Many of the young Ukrainians have lost family members, and several have fathers currently in combat. It was a truly moving account, emphasizing that here in the peaceful and safe Frederikshavn, ice hockey can displace the fear of war for a few days.

As per tradition, guests were served homemade fish cakes with accompaniments from the canteen.