‘We always had a blast’: Crystal Cup co-founder remembers pond hockey as puck drops for 2025 tourney

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Crystal Cup co-founder Neil Evans says the annual pond hockey extravaganza starting Friday evening on Charlie Lake brings back fond childhood memories.

Evans is also a member of the board for the Crystal Cup and Sid Davis Memorial Tournament, which is celebrating its 11th year in 2025.

This year’s tournament will feature between 64 to 66 teams over men’s, women’s and youth divisions.

“[If] you look back in the past, Fort St. John had quite a few outdoor rinks,” said Evans. “Where the Pomeroy Sports Centre is today, that was an outdoor oval. It wasn’t a pond, but it was outdoor hockey.”

Evans says “countless hours” were spent outside in the winter, and the experience emphasizes the passion put into the event. 

“Everyone from [Huskies coach] Todd Alexander to [former Huskies player] Mark Hartigan. Whether it was the rink at Bert Ambrose or Baldonnel, we found an outdoor surface and always had a blast,” said Evans.

Ten sheets have been prepared for the event, as well as a toboggan hill and public skating areas for residents to skate during the event.

Food vendor Bardown Bites will be serving burgers, hot dogs, chili, and soups throughout the weekend. The Mobil 1 Beer Garden, hosted by Mr. Mike’s Steakhouse will also be on site.

Doug Lambert, the tournament ambassador for 2025, will be on hand Friday evening for a ceremonial puck drop at around 5:55 p.m. before the first games get underway at 6 p.m.

Championship games will take place on Sunday, starting at 12 p.m.

Lambert holds the title of “Waterman” for the Fort St. John Huskies, and has been involved with the organization for over 30 years.

“There’s something for everyone,” said Evans.

More information about the Crystal Cup Pond Hockey Challenge and Sid Davis Memorial Tournament is available through its website and Facebook page.

**An earlier version of this article included the incorrect last name for the organizer Neil Evans. This mistake has been corrected.