Youth Hockey Tournaments to Host an Influx of Visitors in Erie County

Youth hockey tournaments are expected to create major impact for Erie’s hospitality industry this fall and winter, as the Erie Sports Commission (ESC) has booked 10 tournaments from September through March. Seven of the tournaments will be hosted by local hockey tournament organizer Lake Effect Hockey, including the 28^th Annual Sarah Backstrom Memorial Tournament.

“Youth hockey has taken off in Erie recently, and we’re thrilled that Lake Effect Hockey can host monthly tournaments to meet that demand,” said Jason Fowler, owner of Lake Effect Hockey. “Our tournaments have welcomed teams from Arizona, Colorado, California and beyond. They know our tournaments provide a competitive and positive experience, and that our region is an outstanding place to visit, which keeps them coming back.”

Scheduled hockey tournaments include:

• TCS Hockey Erie Bay Cup – September 10-12
• Lake Effect Hockey Back to School Challenge – September 17-19
• Lake Effect Hockey Fall Challenge – October 8-11
• Lake Effect Hockey Veterans Day Weekend Jr. Otters Showcase – November 12-14
• Erie White Out Weekend (hosted by Premier Ice Prospects) – December 10-12
• Lake Effect Hockey Iceberg Mite Challenge – December 17-19
• TCS Hockey Erie MLK Ice Cup – January 14-17
• Lake Effect Hockey Winter Challenge – January 21-23
• 28^th Annual Sarah Backstrom Memorial Tournament – February 18-21
• Lake Effect Hockey Spring Invitational – March 25-27

Combined, the tournaments are expected to have an economic impact of nearly $5 million.

“The addition of the twin-pad ice rink at ERIEBANK Sports Park, as well as renovations to Erie’s other outstanding ice facilities, have made it possible for us to host and support major youth hockey events. These tournaments draw an enormous number of athletes to our region during the months when our tourism industry needs it most, and create a much-needed influx of visitor spending to Erie County,” said Mark Jeanneret, Erie Sports Commission executive director.

For a complete list of events, visit www.ErieSportsCommission.com.

The Erie Sports Commission is committed to promoting the Erie region as a prime destination for sports and recreation. The major goals of the ESC are to attract, create, support, and host sporting and recreational events that have a positive economic impact on the region, and assist in maximizing the potential of all regional sports facilities and venues. The ESC strives to enhance the image of Erie by showcasing the community, promote wellness through healthy lifestyles, and improve the quality of life for community members of all ages.