Penn State Youth Ice Hockey Tournament
Ice hockey is a beloved sport in the United States, with many young players dreaming of one day making it to the NHL. The Penn State Youth Ice Hockey Tournament is one of the top events for young players aged 18 and under, offering a chance to showcase their skills and compete against some of the best teams from across the country.
History of the Tournament
The Penn State Youth Ice Hockey Tournament was first held in 1996 and has since become one of the premier events on the youth ice hockey calendar. The tournament is held annually in State College, Pennsylvania, at the Pegula Ice Arena on the Penn State University campus.
The tournament attracts teams from across the United States, with some of the top programs sending their best young players to compete. Past participants include the Chicago Mission, Honeybaked, and the Detroit Little Caesars, all of which have produced numerous NHL players over the years.
The tournament is sanctioned by USA Hockey, the national governing body for the sport in the United States. This means that all players and teams must adhere to USA Hockey's rules and regulations, ensuring a level playing field for all participants.
Tournament Format and Rules
The Penn State Youth Ice Hockey Tournament is a round-robin style event, meaning that teams play a set number of games against other teams in their division. The top teams from each division then advance to the playoffs, with the winners of each playoff game advancing to the championship game.
Each game consists of three 15-minute periods, with a five-minute intermission between periods. All games are played on regulation-sized ice rinks, with five skaters and one goalie on the ice per team. The tournament also employs USA Hockey's rules for checking and penalties, meaning that players are subject to ejections for dangerous hits or unsportsmanlike conduct.
Registration and Eligibility
Teams wishing to participate in the Penn State Youth Ice Hockey Tournament must register online through the tournament's website. The registration fee varies depending on the age division and can be paid via credit card or check.
Players must be aged 18 or under as of December 31 of the year in which the tournament is held. Teams can have up to 20 players on their roster, but only 18 skaters and 2 goalies are allowed to dress for each game. All players must also have valid USA Hockey registration and must provide proof of age and residency before the start of the tournament.
The Excitement of the Tournament
The Penn State Youth Ice Hockey Tournament is not just a chance for young players to showcase their skills - it's also an opportunity for fans to see some of the top young talent in the country. The tournament draws large crowds of spectators, with fans from all over the United States coming to support their teams and cheer on the players.
From the fast-paced action on the ice to the excitement in the stands, the Penn State Youth Ice Hockey Tournament is a thrilling event for players and fans alike. So mark your calendars and get ready for some top-notch youth ice hockey!
