A March Break tradition is underway in Goderich - the 74th annual Young Canada Week youth hockey tournament.
“Young Canada Week started in 1950 as a U13 tournament. That’s where the biggest need was for organized hockey, at that time. There was no organized U13 league back in 1950 - now the biggest need is all three age groups. So we finished the U13 division over the weekend, and we have the U15’s on right now, and at the end of the week we have the U18s,” said Young Canada Week Co-Chair, and Goderich Lion member, Mike Alcock.
The annual tournament organized by the Goderich Lion’s Club was joined by Goderich Minor Hockey in 2021. The tradition has a vast history, stretching back generations of players.
“One of the coaches said, ‘this is so great. I played in this tournament 13 years ago, so I’m happy to bring my kids back.' Another team also had a grandfather that played in the 1971 tournament, so it is historic,” said Young Canada Week Co-Chair and Goderich Minor Hockey Treasurer, Tara Corriveau.
Over the nine day tournament that started on Friday, 44 teams, featuring nearly 1000 players will play over 90 games at the Sifto Arena in Goderich.
“On one rink that’s a little intense, but we try to keep it moving. A couple of years ago we had an Australian team here. So, the history of Young Canada Week, is immense,” said Corriveau.
“There’s an awful lot of NHL players that played here when they were under the age of 13... including Wayne Gretzky. Next year’s our 75th. We’re going to try to do a lot of special things, for that,” said Alcock.
The tournament - which will run through Saturday - is also a boon for Goderich’s economy, adding thousands of visitors to the region.
“It’s not only love of hockey, love of the game, but it really is a community building event, and we couldn’t be happier to be a part of it,’ said Corriveau.
“Our goal through our sponsors is to break even, and provide a very high class tournament for all these players. We have the best swag of any tournament out there,” said Alcock.
