The Irish Ice Hockey League was the highest league tier of ice hockey in Ireland, founded in 2007.[1] The official league was founded in 2007, yet amateur leagues have existed since the early 1980s.[2] The league collapsed in 2010 due to funding issues as they were unable to maintain the major arenas they played in. The league is now run by the IIHA with all games played at Dundonald International Ice Bowl due to closure of other rinks.[1]
Prior to the Irish Ice Hockey League's formation, the only Ice Hockey team in Ireland playing competitive hockey was the Belfast Giants of the UK's Elite Ice Hockey League. Many Irish hockey players seeking to play the sport at a competitive level have had to travel abroad.