The Federacion Mexicana de Deportes Invernales A.C. (Mexican Federation of Winter Sports) was founded in 1984. Mexico joined International Ice Hockey Federation the following year. At the time, Mexico boasted two indoor rinks-one in Mexico City and one in Guadalajara-along with six hockey teams. The first national championship was held in 1988-89 and was won by the Association del Estado de Mexico. Currently, there is no Mexican national championship. Mexico competed internationally for the first time in 1997 when the National Junior Team competed in the "D" Pool World Junior Championships. They returned to the same tourney the following year with somewhat improved results. Under the guidance of Canadian Daniel Gendron, the National Junior Team gained valuable experience in November 1997 when they toured part of Canada. Although lacking in experience and training, the Mexican team did not shy away from the physical side of the game. In 2000, the Mexicans placed fifth on the strength of Manuel Seirra's nine goals in six games.
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