Brick Hockey Tournament is a highly competitive event that has been an integral part of youth hockey for several years. This tournament attracts young players from across the country and provides them with a unique opportunity to showcase their skills and compete against some of the best young players in the game. The tournament is open to boys and girls in several age groups and provides them with a chance to compete in a safe and fun environment.
Whether you are a parent of a young hockey player, a coach, or a player yourself, understanding the ins and outs of the Brick Hockey Tournament is important. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history of the event, the age groups that participate, the rules and regulations of the tournament, and how you can register your team. We’ll also examine the role of coaches and referees in the tournament, the venue where the event takes place, and the impact of the tournament on youth hockey development.
Table of Contents
The History of the Event
The Brick Hockey Tournament has a rich history dating back to 1990 when it was first established by former NHL players, Dan and Joe Brick. The tournament was created as a way to provide young players with a platform to showcase their skills and compete at a high level. Over the years, the tournament has grown in popularity and has become one of the most prestigious youth hockey events in North America.
Today, the tournament attracts hundreds of teams from across the United States and Canada, with players ranging in age from 9 to 12 years old. The event is held annually in Edmonton, Alberta, and is a highly anticipated event for young hockey players and fans alike.
The Founders of the Tournament
- Dan and Joe Brick, former NHL players, founded the tournament in 1990.
- The brothers wanted to create a platform for young players to showcase their skills and compete at a high level.
- The tournament has since become one of the most prestigious youth hockey events in North America.
The Evolution of the Tournament
Over the years, the Brick Hockey Tournament has evolved in several ways. One of the most significant changes was the addition of a girls’ division in 201This change was made in response to the growing popularity of girls’ hockey and has helped to promote gender equality in the sport.
Another notable change to the tournament was the introduction of the “Brick Wall Award” in 200This award is presented to the tournament’s top goaltender and has become one of the most coveted individual awards in youth hockey.
- The addition of a girls’ division in 2012 promoted gender equality in the sport.
- The “Brick Wall Award” was introduced in 2007 and is presented to the tournament’s top goaltender.
- The tournament has continued to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of youth hockey.
The Impact of the Tournament
The Brick Hockey Tournament has had a significant impact on the development of young hockey players. The tournament provides a platform for players to showcase their skills and compete against some of the best young players in the game. This experience can be instrumental in helping players to develop their skills and reach their full potential.
The tournament also provides an opportunity for young players to make new friends and create lasting memories. Many players who have participated in the tournament have gone on to play at higher levels of hockey, including the NHL.
- The tournament provides a platform for players to showcase their skills and develop their potential.
- Many players who have participated in the tournament have gone on to play at higher levels of hockey, including the NHL.
- The tournament provides an opportunity for young players to create lasting memories and make new friends.
Brick Hockey Tournament Age Groups
The Brick Hockey Tournament is an event that caters to different age groups. Each group has its own set of rules and regulations, making the tournament exciting and engaging for players and spectators alike. Here are the age groups that participate in the Brick Hockey Tournament:
Mini Mite Division: This is the youngest age group that can participate in the tournament. It is for players who are seven years old and under. The games are typically shorter in length, and the rinks are smaller, making it more manageable for young players.
Mite Division: This age group is for players who are eight years old and under. The game rules are similar to the Mini Mite Division, but the games are longer, and the rinks are larger, making it more challenging for the players.
Squirt Division:
- Travel: The travel Squirt Division is for players who are nine and ten years old. The games are played on full-sized rinks, and the players wear full equipment.
- House: The house Squirt Division is for players who are nine and ten years old. The games are typically played on smaller rinks, and the players wear limited equipment, such as helmets, gloves, and shin guards.
PeeWee Division:
- Travel: The travel PeeWee Division is for players who are eleven and twelve years old. The games are played on full-sized rinks, and the players wear full equipment.
- House: The house PeeWee Division is for players who are eleven and twelve years old. The games are typically played on smaller rinks, and the players wear limited equipment, such as helmets, gloves, and shin guards.
Bantam Division: The Bantam Division is for players who are thirteen and fourteen years old. The games are played on full-sized rinks, and the players wear full equipment. This is a highly competitive age group where players showcase their skills and strategies.
The Brick Hockey Tournament caters to different age groups, providing them with a platform to showcase their talents and compete with other players in a fun and engaging environment. Whether you’re a Mini Mite or a Bantam player, the Brick Hockey Tournament has something for everyone.
Rules and Regulations of the Tournament
Tournament rules are established to ensure a safe, fair and enjoyable experience for all participants. The rules are designed to provide a level playing field and promote sportsmanship, respect and teamwork. All players, coaches and spectators are expected to adhere to the tournament rules and regulations at all times.
Team eligibility is determined by age and skill level. The tournament offers several age groups ranging from 6U to 18U. Each age group has specific guidelines regarding team composition and skill level. Teams must provide proof of age and skill level at the time of registration. The tournament reserves the right to adjust team placement if necessary.
Gameplay
- Game duration: Games consist of three 12-minute periods with a 1-minute break between periods.
- Overtime: If the game is tied at the end of regulation time, a 5-minute sudden death overtime period will be played.
- Penalties: Penalties will be assessed for any infraction of the rules. The severity of the penalty will depend on the nature of the infraction.
Safety
Equipment: All players are required to wear full hockey gear, including helmets, gloves, shin guards, and mouth guards. Players without proper equipment will not be allowed to participate.
Checking: Checking is not allowed in any age group except 18U. Any player who checks an opponent will receive a major penalty and possible suspension from the tournament.
Conduct: Unsportsmanlike conduct will not be tolerated. Any player, coach or spectator who exhibits unacceptable behavior will be subject to ejection from the game and/or suspension from the tournament.
Tournament Management
Referees: All games will be officiated by certified referees who have been trained to enforce the rules of the game and ensure a safe playing environment.
Protests: Protests will not be allowed. Referee decisions are final and cannot be overturned.
Forfeits: If a team fails to show up for a scheduled game, they will forfeit the game and the opposing team will be awarded a 3-0 victory.
By participating in the tournament, all teams agree to abide by the rules and regulations established by the tournament organizers. Failure to comply with these rules may result in disqualification from the tournament.
How to Register Your Team for the Tournament
Registering your team for the tournament is easy and can be done online or in person. Here are the steps to register your team:
Step 1: Visit the official website of the tournament and locate the registration form. Fill out the form with all the necessary details such as team name, age group, and contact information.
Online Registration
- Step 2: Pay the registration fee online using the payment gateway provided on the website.
- Step 3: After payment, you will receive a confirmation email with your team’s unique registration ID.
- Step 4: Keep the confirmation email safe as you will need to present it at the time of the tournament.
In-person Registration
Step 2: Visit the tournament office and pay the registration fee in person. The office address and timings will be mentioned on the official website.
Step 3: After payment, you will be given a registration form to fill out. Provide all the necessary details and submit the form.
That’s it! Your team is now registered for the tournament and ready to compete. Make sure to keep all the important documents and information safe for future reference.
The Role of Coaches and Referees in the Tournament
Coaches and referees play a critical role in ensuring that the tournament is fair, safe, and enjoyable for all participants. Coaches are responsible for managing their team, ensuring that all players follow the rules and regulations, and encouraging good sportsmanship. Referees, on the other hand, are responsible for enforcing the rules of the game, ensuring that all players are playing safely and within the rules, and making impartial decisions.
Coaches must attend a mandatory meeting prior to the tournament to receive important information and updates. They are responsible for submitting their team’s roster, ensuring that all players are properly registered, and providing the necessary equipment. Coaches must also ensure that their team is aware of the tournament rules, and that they are in compliance with all regulations. Coaches must also be prepared to handle any disciplinary issues that may arise during the tournament.
Responsibilities of Referees
- Enforce the rules: Referees must ensure that all players are playing within the rules of the game, and make impartial decisions.
- Maintain safety: Referees must ensure that all players are playing safely and within the rules, and stop the game if necessary to prevent injury.
- Provide feedback: Referees may provide feedback to coaches and players after the game to help them improve their skills and understanding of the game.
Responsibilities of Coaches
Coaches have several responsibilities during the tournament, including:
- Managing the team: Coaches must ensure that all players are present and ready to play, and manage substitutions and playing time.
- Ensuring compliance with rules and regulations: Coaches must ensure that their team is aware of the tournament rules, and that they are in compliance with all regulations.
- Promoting sportsmanship: Coaches should encourage good sportsmanship among their players, and take disciplinary action if necessary.
Coaches and referees play vital roles in ensuring the success of the tournament. By working together, they can ensure that the tournament is fair, safe, and enjoyable for all participants.
The Venue: Where the Tournament Takes Place
The venue is one of the most important factors when it comes to a successful tournament. It should be easily accessible for all the teams and spectators, with ample parking and public transport options. Additionally, the venue should be equipped with all the necessary facilities to accommodate the tournament, including restrooms, changing rooms, and first aid stations.
When selecting a venue, it’s also important to consider the size and layout of the space. The venue should have enough space to accommodate all the teams, spectators, and officials comfortably. The layout of the venue should be designed to ensure a smooth flow of traffic, both inside and outside the venue, to avoid congestion and confusion.
Facilities at the Venue
- The venue should have adequate restrooms for all participants and spectators.
- There should be ample parking facilities available for all attendees.
- The venue should be equipped with first aid stations in case of medical emergencies.
Location and Accessibility
When selecting a venue, it’s important to consider the location and accessibility of the space. Choose a venue that is centrally located and easily accessible for all teams and spectators, with plenty of public transport options available. This will ensure that everyone can get to the venue quickly and easily, without any unnecessary delays or inconvenience.
It’s also important to consider the surrounding area of the venue. Choose a location that is safe and convenient, with plenty of amenities and attractions nearby. This will help to ensure that all attendees have an enjoyable and memorable experience at the tournament.
The Impact of the Brick Hockey Tournament on Youth Hockey Development
The Brick Hockey Tournament has had a significant impact on the youth hockey development in the United States. The tournament attracts some of the best young hockey players from across the country and provides them with an opportunity to showcase their skills in front of scouts, coaches, and other hockey enthusiasts. This exposure helps to increase the visibility of youth hockey programs and motivates young players to continue to develop their skills and pursue their dreams of playing at higher levels.
Participating in the tournament also allows young players to gain valuable experience playing against top-level competition. This experience helps players to develop their skills, learn new strategies, and become more confident on the ice. Additionally, the tournament provides a platform for young players to network and build relationships with coaches, scouts, and other influential figures in the hockey community, which can lead to future opportunities for growth and development.
Benefits of Exposure
- Increased visibility of youth hockey programs
- Motivation for young players to pursue their dreams
- Increased interest in the sport of hockey
Benefits of Playing Against Top-Level Competition
Playing against top-level competition in the Brick Hockey Tournament provides young players with a challenging and rewarding experience. They are able to test their skills against some of the best players in the country and learn from their successes and failures. This experience can help players to develop a better understanding of the game and improve their decision-making abilities on the ice.
Networking Opportunities
Participating in the Brick Hockey Tournament provides young players with the opportunity to network and build relationships with coaches, scouts, and other influential figures in the hockey community. These connections can lead to future opportunities for growth and development, including scholarship offers, invitations to elite training programs, and invitations to try out for higher-level teams.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Brick Hockey Tournament?
A: The Brick Hockey Tournament is a youth hockey tournament held annually in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. It brings together some of the best 10-year-old hockey players from around the world to compete against each other.
When was the first Brick Hockey Tournament held?
A: The first Brick Hockey Tournament was held in 1990. It was created by hockey coach Brick Wollman with the goal of providing young hockey players with an opportunity to compete at a high level and develop their skills.
How are teams selected for the tournament?
A: Teams are selected through a rigorous tryout process. Coaches and scouts from around the world evaluate players based on their skill level, speed, agility, and teamwork. The top players are then selected to compete in the tournament.
How long does the tournament last?
A: The tournament lasts for seven days. During this time, teams compete in a round-robin format, followed by playoff and championship rounds. It is a grueling competition that requires skill, stamina, and mental toughness.
What is the impact of the Brick Hockey Tournament on youth hockey development?
A: The Brick Hockey Tournament has had a significant impact on youth hockey development. It provides young players with the opportunity to compete at a high level and develop their skills. It also helps to promote the sport of hockey and inspire young players to work hard and achieve their goals.
Who are some of the notable players who have competed in the tournament?
A: Many notable players have competed in the Brick Hockey Tournament over the years. Some of these players include NHL stars such as Jonathan Toews, Steven Stamkos, and Drew Doughty. The tournament has a reputation for developing some of the best young talent in the game today.