FORT MCMURRAY. — Grab your stick and lace up the skates as four on four pond hockey returns to the Snye later this winter, with registration now open for the annual Shootout on the Snye tournament.
The event is part of WinterPLAY, one of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo’s largest winter celebrations, and runs Feb. 20 to 22. Organizers say the tournament is designed to celebrate a classic Canadian pastime while offering a fun, non contact competition for both youth and adults.
Players are encouraged to register early to take advantage of discounted fees. Early bird registration costs $40 per player until Jan. 21, rising to $50 per player after that, with the final registration deadline set for Feb. 2. All participants must register in advance through the municipal website, and each registered player will receive a Shootout on the Snye jersey.
Adult players aged 18 and older may register as a full team or as individuals, with the option to join either competitive or non competitive divisions. Youth players under 18 must register individually, with balanced teams formed based on division and skill level.
Each team will consist of six players, with games played four on four and a maximum of two substitutes. All teams are guaranteed at least three games over the first two days of play, with additional games available during Sunday playoffs.
The tournament begins with a ceremonial puck drop at 6 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 20, and wraps up at 5 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 22. Organizers stress the event is non contact, with an emphasis on safe and respectful play.
Officials are also recruiting referees, offering $25 per 35 minute game, and say additional fundraising opportunities for local groups and organizations will be announced later in January.
Shootout on the Snye is one of several attractions planned during WinterPLAY, which runs Feb. 20 to 24 and features free family friendly activities including fireworks, ice sculptures, horse drawn wagon rides, and cultural programming.
More information and registration details are available at rmwb.ca/WinterPLAY.
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