EAGLE RIVER — Players from Waupun and Beaver Dam brought home three division championships at the USA National Pond Hockey Tournament in Eagle River last weekend.
The National Pond Hockey Tournament was made up of 23 different men’s and women’s divisions using 18 outdoor hockey rinks. This included 231 teams from thirty-one U.S. states and three Canadian provinces with more than 420 total games.
The three area teams that won their divisions were Williams Construction (Silver 21+), the Ice Cocks (Silver 30+), and Silver Eagle Bar (Silver 40+).
“Eagle River did a great job hosting the event,” said Cory Buchholz, who played on the Silver Eagles Bar team for the tournament. “When we go up to pond hockey, it’s like a hockey family reunion. Our family keeps growing and memories keep building. That’s what it’s all about.”
The tournament was a friendly competition with a small list of prizes including a trophy, beanies, and a commemorative jersey. The winning teams also received a case of beer.
“It was a great weekend back together with the guys, having fun, and playing hockey!” said Nick Tank, who played on the Williams Construction team.
This year’s tournament was played at the Eagle River Derby Complex due to warm weather, but the organizers are planning to move the tournament back onto Dollar Lake for next year.
