LONDON, England, Sept 2008 – Fantastar and Hockey New Zealand have teamed up to launch the inaugural NHL Fantasy Hockey Game for the National Hockey League which starts on 19th September.

Fantasy sport games have traditionally only been applied to mainstream sports such as football, cricket and rugby. However, thanks to Fantastar's unique website, hockey fans from across the globe can enjoy the fantasy sport experience by selecting and managing their virtual team of hockey stars.

Each time a player performs well by, for example, scoring a goal or keeping a clean sheet he will be awarded points in the game. The goal is to assemble a team of stars which you believe will be as successful as possible during the NHL tournament. After nine days of competition, some smart transfers, and with a bit of luck, one player will be named overall champion of the inaugural NHL Fantasy Hockey Game. The winner will receive a hockey pack of Mazon and Lotto gear worth over $500.

Brent Edwards, Hockey New Zealand's Marketing and Sponsorship manager, said: "The NHL Fantasy Hockey Game is the first of its kind and aims to generate further excitement and interest around the NHL tournament. In Fantastar we have found an ideal partner for delivering a great game to our hockey community."

The Fantasy Hockey Game is the work of innovative website fantastar.com, founded by internet entrepreneur Rob Tong. The game is built on Fantastar’s cutting edge technology which also allows clubs, universities and schools to set up their own fantasy sport leagues. The free service helps grass roots sport by promoting team spirit and improved performance while also providing an avenue for generating funds to help develop the sports stars of the future.

To find out more go to www.fantastar.com/hockeynewzealand