The 2023 U11 Winter Classic Pond Hockey Tournament. (Elk Ridge Resort/Facebook)

By Jaryn Vecchio

Unforgettable Experience

Elk Ridge set to host second U11 Winter Classic Pond Hockey Tournament

Jan 10, 2024 | 12:12 PM

Six hockey teams from across Saskatchewan will soon be headed to Elk Ridge to take part in a unique tournament.

The resort village is set to host the second annual U11 Winter Classic Pond Hockey Tournament which sees each team represent one of the NHL’s original six teams on the ice.

The U11 Humboldt Broncos, which won the inaugural competition in 2023, are hosting the event. This means they’re bringing up the referees and are responsible for getting the jerseys for each team.

Head Coach Chad Knaus told paNOW the first tournament was an unforgettable experience.

“The hockey was excellent but also the whole environment up at Elk Ridge. We had an awesome time doing some snowshoeing, outdoor skiing, curling, and going skating on the pond.”

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The Broncos will represent the New York Rangers. Returning player Blake Knaus said his team is excited for the opportunity.

“Last year, we were the Toronto Maple Leafs, and it was cool but this year we thought the New York Rangers colours would be cool for the toques and stuff,” he added.

Ben Hinz, who also played at the previous tournament, explained he’s been looking forward to coming back for a while.

“Being able to hang out with everybody and play hockey on the outdoor rink was amazing.”

Not every player on the Broncos got to play in 2023. This includes Avery Michel who’s looking forward to getting on the ice for the first time.

“I’m excited to have an experience on an outdoor rink.”

Thanks to sponsors Elk Ridge, CCM Hockey, and Al Anderson’s Source For Sports in Saskatoon, each player will get to keep their jersey which will have their name and number on it.

The other five teams competing are the Wakaw Lakers, representing the Toronto Maple Leafs; the Lloydminster Blazers, representing the Montreal Canadians; the Martensville Prowlers, representing the Detroit Redwings; the Lumsden Lions, representing the Boston Bruins; and the Watrous Hawks, representing the Chicago Blackhawks.

The tournament will take place from Jan. 19 – 21.

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Jaryn.Vecchio@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow