FORT ST. JOHN -- The Crystal Cup is back and is celebrating a decade as one of Western Canada’s biggest pond hockey tournaments.
The tournament takes place this weekend at the Charlie Lake West boat launch, just outside Fort St. John.
Preparations were underway this week, with crews working to set up the game rinks, beer garden, and shinny rink.
Adult and old-timer teams from across the peace region will compete in the pond hockey tournament, vying for the Crystal, Sapphire, and Coal Cups, with a kids tournament taking place on Saturday.
This year’s Crystal Cup will also see a famous Canadian face make an appearance, as former NHL player and “Shorsey” star Terry Ryan Jr. takes part in the games.
"I ended up striking up a conversation with Terry Ryan Jr. online, and he was immediately interested when he heard about the event," said Crystal Cup President Neil Evans.
Evans says this year, many out-of-town teams have signed on to participate because of the growth the event has seen over the course of its 10-year history.
The Northland Trailblazers Snowmobile Club will also be holding their 2024 “Snow & Shine” alongside the Crystal Cup.
“It's amazing the amount of work that goes into it and what the event becomes year to year,” said Evans.
The first puck drops on Ffriday, February 23 at 6:00 p.m. and the event runs through February 25th.
“People that have not been out to the event—it’s just amazing to see the smiles and kind of awe of the event,” said Evans.
