During a recent skiing trip in Ruka, Finland, I came across a rather surprising sight as I skiied down into Ruka Village. Loads of other people were also skiing down into the landing zone, except most were wearing ice hockey jerseys…

I’d stumbled upon PIPOLÄTKÄ, the world’s largest amateur pond hockey event!

Around 300 teams would compete across 3 days, over 8 rinks, bringing their own character and personality to every match. The whole village was awash with the bright coloured uniforms of the teams – the brighter the better – before the action commenced.

Each match is 15 minutes, no goalies allowed and fouling outlawed to keep the peace. There was a range of talent, from hardworking teams giving it a go to some players blessed with a lot of flair. Some matches were one-way traffic but overall the balance seemed spot-on and competitive!

I’ve shot sports before but it was my first time shooting ice hockey, and I couldn’t have asked for a more joyful debut – and love the photos that came from it. It’s the 10th anniversary of PIPOLÄTKÄ next year – I might have to go back!