USA Hockey Adult Hockey

I'm writing in the Chanticleer Inn lodge just over an hour removed from handing out the last championship banner and I'm already looking forward to 2010's event as everyone I've talked to is as well.

Playing in the event was as much fun as I've had playing hockey and truly a weekend worth repeating as long as I'm able. But even just being a fan had to have been fun.

Here are a few parting thoughts as we pack up and head back to Colorado:

1. Play until the lights go out

After Saturday's games ended, a handful of players stayed out for some pickup games until it was too dark to see the puck. I think that scene is what makes this tournament hit home with so many players. Whether you grew up with outdoor ice or played street hockey (Like Neal Broten), you are sure to have memories of playing until you simply couldn't see anymore.

2. Eagle River loves pond hockey

From the Eagle River Fire Department (Thanks Pat!) to the folks at the Chanticleer Inn (A great place to stay summer or winter), the players and fans have had nothing but good things to say. The locals really welcome the huge crowds into their restaurants and lodges and help make the event bigger than hockey.

3. Get in line for 2010

This morning as I was typing up some articles in the lodge, I watched a line of players come to the front desk to check out and all but one team was putting down a deposit on rooms for next year's tournament. The veterans all say they are hooked and every rookie team I spoke to said they were planning to come back again. Want a head start? Fill out our 2010 interest form to get your name on the list to receive registration information later this year.

A special thanks goes out to my adopted team, the Yaks, who made the tournament even more fun. A great bunch of guys and a great team. Maybe we'll take the ice again next year.

The photo at right just about says it all. Any team that brings a full Yak skull as their mascot is dedicated. Thanks Mike G., Mike D., Tom, Jordan, Brian, Joe, Matt, Scott, Jeff and a special thanks to the fan club Dave and Tom.

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I hope you enjoyed the tournament if you were out here in Eagle River, and if not, I hope you enjoyed reading about the event. We're accepting photos online at photos@usahockey.org and if you have questions or want to share your comments about the event, please e-mail me at camerone@usahockey.org