The decision was made this past Saturday to change the Labatt Pond Hockey Tournament to a Street Hockey Tournament. Who would have thought that the lack of snow and cold would impact the event to such a degree? Fortunately, Labatt will still host the tournament at the Erie Basin Marina, but instead of lacing up skates, players will be lacing up sneakers – Buffalo is lucky in that regard because there are other towns and cities where the tournaments have already been canceled altogether.
The plan is to still host 144 teams, all of which will be refunded the full amount of the $250 fee to play. Labatt is considering this move a goodwill gesture that will tap into the camaraderie of the players. Teams that opt not to play at all can, of course, pull out completely, but Brett Carlsen (photo), North American Breweries Associate Brand Manager for Labatt, isn’t worried because there are still 50 teams waiting to get in on the action, and others that will gladly come out out and play for free in the new street version of the tournament.
Of course there is still an overall feeling of disappointment… but this is still a glimmer of hope that the action will take place out on the ice. If Buffalo experiences a sudden prolonged freeze, there is a chance to switch the action back out onto the lake. The ice would have to freeze to the 12″ mark well before the day of the tournament in order for City crews to groom the rinks properly. It could be a last minute call, although it is highly unlikely.
As for the street hockey, all of the same rules and regs will apply. Helmets are a must on each of the dozen ‘rinks’. Teams that are still planning on attending must confirm with Labatt by January 23 at 9am. Those looking to add a team to the waiting list are encouraged to send an email to ed@labattbluepondhockey.com.
Proclamation read aloud by Brett Carlsen at this morning’s press conference