The Burnaby Wildcats are easy to spot this weekend.
The minor hockey group – part of the Burnaby Minor Hockey Association – is hosting its 12th annual Remembrance Day tournament at Burnaby 8-Rinks.
And, while the name says ‘Remembrance Day,’ the event actually takes over six sheets of ice over three days, beginning Saturday bright and early.
A full flock of 52 teams will be participating in the girls rec hockey tourney, providing a fun weekend of action, camaraderie and community-building, both on and off the ice.
Five divisions – from novice to midget – will take part, with teams from as far away as northern B.C. and Washington State competing for tourney banners.
Lee Poizer, director at large for the female Wildcats division, said the focus is on providing a fun atmosphere and a variety of activities for the players and volunteers.
“It’s a great tournament, especially for young girls who are just getting involved in the sport,” he said.
Teams apply early to be part of the festivities, resulting in a waiting list.
Making it a great experience is the dedication of the volunteers who return year after year as well, Poizer said.
“A lot of the framework is already in place, so we’re not re-inventing the wheel every year,” he noted. “It takes countless hours, months before the tournament to put things together.”
Funds raised from the tourney – which turns a profit for the association – are directed towards funding goaltending clinics and extra ice for members of the female hockey community. The action begins Saturday and continues until Monday.
