TORONTO, ON - The 2000 IIHF Women's World Hockey Championship, scheduled for Mississauga, ON from April 3-9, will serve as the qualifying event to seed the countries that will compete at the 2002 Olympic Winter Games in Salt Lake City, Utah, the Canadian Hockey Association announced Thursday.

The top 6 countries that place at this year's Women's World Championship will qualify for the 2002 Olympic Winter games. This year's Championship includes eight countries: Canada, USA, Finland, Russia, Japan, Sweden, China and Germany.

The International Ice Hockey Federation rules state that Pools A and B of the Women's World Championship must take place annually during the months of March and/or April. Olympic qualification must terminate one year prior to the Winter Olympics, which is held in February. Therefore, the 2000 IIHF Women's World Championship will be regarded as the ëpreceding' World Championship and decisive for the 2002 Olympic seeding.

"This year's Women's World Championship in Mississauga,ON is an important step for all participating countries, including Canada, in preparation for the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City," said Bob Nicholson, President, Canadian Hockey Association.

Fran Rider, Chairperson of the 2000 World Championship, is aware of the special aura associated with the Olympics. "Women's hockey has struggled for widespread public credibility and the Olympics has taken the women's game to a new level", she said.

Tickets are currently on sale for the 2000 IIHF Women's World Championship at all TICKETMASTER outlets or by calling 416-872-5000.

CN TOWER TAKES WOMEN'S HOCKEY TO THE TOP OF THE WORLD

The CN Tower in Toronto, ON will celebrate women's hockey during the NHL All Star Week in Toronto. As part of the weeklong festivities, from January 28th- February 6th the CN Tower will feature displays and activities of women's hockey throughout the halls of the world's tallest free-standing structure. For more information on CN Tower activities, contact the CN Tower at 416-868-6937.

GO CANADA GO BANNER TO BE UNVEILED

Hockey fans and the general public will have an opportunity to send good luck greetings to Canada's National Women's team as they prepare for the 2000 IIHF Women's World Hockey Championship in Mississauga, ON, April 3-9. A 4-feet by 6-feet banner will be set up at the CN Tower in Toronto during NHL All-Star Week for visitors to sign and wish good luck to the Canadian players and coaches. Banners will also be available at the Canada vs. USA game on February 4th at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto, and at NHL FANtasy in Collector's Corner.