Register now for Tumbler Ridge 3-on-3 tournament with WHL Star

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The leaves changing on the trees and the weather getting cooler usually means hockey season isn’t far around the corner.

Registration has begun for the inaugural Tumbler Ridge 3-on-3 hockey tournament, which Western Hockey League (WHL) forward Hayden Smith will host.

An experienced forward who has played three seasons in the WHL, Smith says he is organizing the tournament to help younger players prepare for the hockey season.

“I want to give kids the chance to get on the ice early,” said Smith.  “Usually, in the summer, there’s not a lot of ice available here in the north.”

“It’ll be a fun tournament for the kids to get ready for the season and get together.” 

The 20-year-old forward’s career has seen him go to Saskatoon and Lethbridge before landing with the Everett Silvertips. 

He scored 10 goals and had six assists for 16 points in 56 games for Everett in the 2023-24 season.

Smith hopes that hosting this tournament will allow him to mentor and foster the potential talent of the region’s next generation of prospects.

“I’m hoping to use some of the knowledge I’ve acquired to pass down to these kids,” said Smith, acknowledging the difficulties of getting “high-end” hockey IQ in the region and bringing it “back home.”

According to Smith, his goal will be for three teams in each age group with shortened periods.  With enough players registered, he can have semi-finals and a championship for participants.

He does stress, however, that there will be little more than bragging rights on the line.

But, a successful tournament may make the event an annual occurrence in Tumbler Ridge.

The tournament will run on August 24th and 25th from 5 to 8 p.m. at the District of Tumbler Ridge community centre, located at 340 Front Street.

Registration fees are $120 per player, but goaltenders can play free of charge, as, according to Smith, “it’s tough to find goalies.”

More information and registration can be found on the event’s website and Facebook page.