Keefe, who has been at the helm at the Giants since 2017, says he has a “tough choice” when deciding who will make up his seven-strong panel for GB to make sure they are “right up there”.
He did, however, highlight some key traits he is looking for players to possess to cope with the demands of the faster-paced game.
“Speed is one of them, the ability to beat a player one-on-one, but you need players who can put the puck in the net too and we’re looking for a combination of those types of talent: speed, skill and sniper,” he explained.
“We have a lot of good players that are capable of participating and to play against the best countries in the world and represent their country is pretty cool.
“It’s a chance to show your skillset off, when it is five v five there are a lot of bodies out there, this format allows players to show a bit more skill and a bit more of their talent level.”
There is an expectation that, given its increasing popularity, three-on-three hockey will join the Winter Olympics from 2030, something Keefe is hopeful the success of the inaugural World Cup in Belfast can help make a reality.
“That’s what they’re pushing for, it to be a mainstream sport and adding a new event like this you can showcase real skillsets and what hockey can provide. Hopefully it can continue to grow.”