Wayne Gretzky International Hockey Tournament has been cancelled for the second consecutive year due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
“It is with great disappointment that Brantford Minor Hockey announces the cancellation of this year’s Wayne Gretzky International Hockey Tournament. With the uncertainty caused by the Omicron variant and increasing team cancellations, it has become logistically impossible to host this year’s event. We are saddened to remove this opportunity from participants, this close to December 27,” said tournament organizers.
“We know how much hockey players and their families look forward to the bonding opportunities and excitement created by tournaments. Hotel stays, team dinners, along with the highs and lows of intense competition can’t be replaced. Our youth have paid the largest price during this pandemic and the last week has taken a little more away from everyone.”
“This is not a decision made lightly. While tournaments are fun for their participants, they are also economically beneficial for local restaurants, hotels, and facilities. They are opportunities for officials and timekeepers to earn extra income and volunteers earn hours towards their graduation. It’s a time for players to display their skills and for our 99ers family to come together, showcasing our great community and association.”
BMHA personnel will be in touch with teams in coming weeks to coordinate refunds. Please be patient as we work through this process. Brantford Minor Hockey wishes everyone a very Merry Christmas and a hockey-filled New Year. Be safe, stay healthy, and we hope to see you in December 2022.
