ASIAN ICE HOCKEY

China has finalized its roster for the 2025 IIHF Division IB World Championship in Tallinn, Estonia. The team remains largely unchanged compared to the squads that competed earlier this year at the IIHF Asia Championship and the Asian Winter Games.

Experienced Leadership at the Helm

Veteran coach Perry Pearn will once again lead the Chinese national team. Under his guidance, China enters the tournament with clear medal ambitions, aiming to build on the solid foundation laid in previous competitions.

Strong Beijing Lions Core

The core of the roster is formed by players from Beijing Lions, the reigning champions of CIHL, China’s domestic league. The Lions’ strong presence ensures cohesion and familiarity within the team. They are supplemented by three North America-based players: goaltender Shifeng Chen, along with forwards Juncheng Yan and Yixiang “Jason” Huang, all of whom bring valuable international experience to the lineup.

Shifeng Chen Ready to Lead Between the Pipes

One notable absence is longtime goaltender Zehao Sun, who decided to retire from professional hockey at the end of the season. While Sun’s retirement leaves a void, China’s goaltending remains in safe hands with Shifeng Chen, the emerging “Chinese Wall” in net.

Several Familiar Faces Missing

Compared to their previous appearances at the IIHF Asia Championship and the Asian Winter Games, China will be without several other notable names for various reasons, including Zimeng Chen, Tianyuo Zuo, Kailin Chen, and Ming Shen Hao “Steven” Li.

China Hoping to Play the Dark Horse Role

Despite these absences, the roster remains competitive and motivated to make a strong impact in Tallinn. With a stable core, experienced coaching, and standout players like Shifeng Chen, Pengfei Zhang, Jing Wang, Yuyang Hou or Juncheng Yan, the team has every reason to aim high – and a medal finish is certainly within reach.