Peterborough Hockey Association to Continue Annual Liftlock U11 Hockey Tournament In 2027
/A cherished tradition will continue after all, as the Peterborough Hockey Association (PHA) will host the Annual Liftlock U11 Hockey Tournament for 2027, announced on Wednesday.
Photo by David Tuan Bui.
The decision came after close collaboration with the City of Peterborough.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to the current and past volunteers and board members of the Liftlock Atom Tournament for their many years of dedication, which have sustained this cherished event,” according to a statement made in a press release.
The original tournament organizers announced that the 66th edition would be the last back in late July due to a lack of volunteers and the shifting landscape of minor hockey.
The past organizers stated that “finding and retaining enough individuals to manage the extensive logistics, from scheduling to arena operations, has become increasingly difficult.”
They also mentioned that “changes within the broader minor hockey landscape may have also contributed to the challenges faced by the Peterborough Liftlock Atom Tournament.”
Eighty-seven alumni participated in the tournament and went on to play in the National Hockey League.
They include:
Wayne Gretzky - The Great One and was one of hockey’s greatest goal scorers
Eric Lindros - NHL MVP
Bob Gainey - Multiple Stanley Cup winner and successful coach
Corey Perry - Hometown Stanley Cup champion with the Anaheim Ducks
Steve Larmer - An ‘iron man’ forward who played 884 consecutive games for the Chicago Blackhawks
John Vanbiesbrouck - Stanley Cup goaltender and finalist
Tie Domi - Renowned Toronto Maple Leafs enforcer
Mickey Redmond - Montréal Canadiens forward and Detroit Red Wings colour commentator
Cory Stillman - A two-time Stanley Cup champion
Mike Fisher - An 18-season NHL veteran
