We had a theory that the BookTok favourite romances like Heated Rivalry and Off Campus might be fuelling Canberra’s current ice hockey boom. So we went straight to the source. Speaking with CBR Brave player Bayley, it’s clear something’s shifted. Games are selling out, tickets are harder to get, and there’s been a noticeable wave of new fans jumping on board.

While the books might not be the only reason, the timing lines up. A bigger venue, a growing community, and a fresh audience discovering the sport all at once have created serious momentum, and the Brave are feeling it. Whether it’s booktok hype or just the vibe at the Brave Cave, one thing’s certain: Canberra is all in on ice hockey right now.