The Crystal Cup pond hockey challenge wrapped up its successful return to Charlie Lake on Sunday.
Eighty teams young and old took to the ice over the three-day event, with the Jagr Bombs taking the tournament's Crystal Cup title over Ironhide 22-18.
“It’s an awesome feeling to know that you're not just being involved in the community, you’re creating community,” said event organizer Neil Evans after the tournament had wrapped.
Winners of the Sapphire Cup were the White Schrutes, beating out Team Prospect. Eco-Web won the Coal Cup over the The Uncles, who took second place.
The tournament also include the much-loved Sid Davis Memorial Championship for youth, which honours longtime minor hockey coach Sid Davis, who died in December 2017.
Winners were the Little Puckers (U7), Toe Dragon Juniors (U9), Team Surge (U11), Flint Yeti (U13), Team Surge (U15), and Snizzy Committee (U18)
“This year’s turnout was amazing, feels like we’re picking up right where we left off,” said Evans. “So many new sponsors who remember the Cup and just want to help out in any way they can.”
The Crystal Cup first ran in 2012, and this year's event also featured a visit from sports podcasters and commentators Olly Postanin and Jacob Ardown of “On The Bench”.
“It’s so good for the kids, that’s what it’s all about," said Ardown. “I had no idea this was out here but I’m glad.”
The two hosts were set to make an appearance during the 2021 Crystal Cup, but due to Covid-19 the event was postponed.
“When I reached out to them this year, they were more than excited to show up,” said Evans.
