Pond hockey sometimes seems like one of those events you only read about in books--a bunch of players get out on a frozen lake and drop the puck, honing their skills in the open winter air in friendly rivalry. You might go your whole life without ever seeing a game played outdoors--or you can just head to St. Ignace Feb. 17-19.
The city of St. Ignace will be hosting one of North America's largest pond hockey tournaments on the frozen water of Lake Huron during those three days with the Labatt Blue U.P. Adult Pond Hockey Championship.
The event takes place over 16 acres, all cleared by zamboni and divided into 30 rinks--all just steps away from downtown St. Ignace. Spectators can watch the games, which are played in four-on-four action, from atop hay bales while taking breaks inside warming tents to help stave off the frigid temperatures.
"Our location on Lake Huron, the condition of our ice, and the event’s close proximity to downtown are what keep people coming back," says Mark Sposito, chairman of the St. Ignace events committee.
This marks the sixth year of the tournament and 2012 will see approximately 160 teams take to the ice. Divided by age and gender, the youngest players are 21 and there is no cap on age limit--players are as young as they feel.
In addition to hockey and the warming tents, spectators can also enjoy a food and beverage tent, outdoor ice bowling, a snow cab and live entertainment.
For complete information, rules and a schedule of events, visit the
tournament website.
Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Mark Sposito, St. Ignace Visitor's Bureau
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