Busy weekend for minor hockey in Greater Sudbury

Ian Campbell has a look at Friday's OHL and NOJHL action in the region, including a big night for the Soo Greyhounds and some exciting NOJHL action.

A busy weekend is underway in Sudbury at three local arenas with the Houseleague Classic Tournament hosted by the Sudbury Minor Hockey Association.

Jason Innis, the association’s president, told CTV News that there are 125 games on tap this weekend alone involving 55 teams from across northern Ontario.

“Communities coming from as far as Wawa, Timmins, Schumacher – we have East Nipissing, West Nipissing,” Innis said.

“So good representation all around.”

Some players from the Schumacher Bears said they were excited for the jam-packed weekend that they hope will extend to the semifinal and finals.

Innis said this year’s tournament is a great opportunity for team bonding, while showing off the community to travelling teams.

“Tournaments like this teach the kids teamwork, positivity,” he said.

“There’s no body contact. So, there’s a lot more games, skill. It gives the kids an opportunity to showcase and have fun. There’s a lot more smiles out here than tears. So, it’s always a good time to see these kids come out and play.”

Soo Pee Wee Arena Huskies trainer Kiersten Villenueve said the weekend is a chance for the players to expand their skills.

“And the kids get to experience team bonding and everything from travelling out of town and hanging out in the hotels and then getting to try and play all these teams,” she said.

This year, U9s, U11s, U13s, and U15s are competing for gold. But it’s especially fun for U9s getting a chance to win on a full-sized ice pad, igniting some competitive attitudes.

“I don’t know if I’m going to win,” said one player from the Porcupine Quills, before adding he was going to do his best to come home victorious.

The tournament runs until Sunday, so there is still a lot of time for friendly competition.