Nearly 800 teenage hockey players are hitting the ice in Moncton for the largest high school hockey tournament in the Maritimes.
The Moncton High School Hockey Classic has been happening for almost four decades and 41 teams from Nova Scotia and New Brunswick are vying to win the championship this year– the most teams ever registered in the tournament’s 39-year history.
“I’ve been in it for four years because I’m in Grade 12 now,” says Josie Paul of Leo Hayes High School. “It’s the same every year… it’s the best tournament.”
“I think it’s pretty neat to see everyone from the provinces… its good competition,” says Kevin Flanagan, a student at Miramichi High School.
Eight female teams are registered as well as 33 male teams that have been divided into two divisions.
Tournament organizer David Melanson says there was so much interest in the tournament this year, he had to turn some teams away.
“I had some teams I had to say ‘no’ to. I felt bad, but it’s a special tournament,” he says.
Melanson says the tournament is about more than hockey and there is more than a trophy to be gained.
An awards banquet will be held for both players and coaches in recognition of their accomplishments on and off the ice.
“We’re also going to give scholarships, $3,000 in scholarships to outstanding student athletes,” says Melanson. “There’s MVPs for the first division and second division in the boys, MVPs in the girls division.”
Parents also appreciate the focus on academics at the tournament.
“I think it’s good motivation for the girls and it gives them something to look forward to, to work towards, and it builds good character within them,” says Laurie Donovan.
Scouts from various junior leagues and universities are also in attendance meaning some players could see their hockey careers continue, thanks to exposure at the prestigious tournament.
With files from CTV Atlantic's Jonathan MacInnis
