This year marks the 65th anniversary of the International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament in Quebec, featuring appearances by notable former Nordiques players like the Stastny brothers and Peter Forsberg. Scheduled from February 12 to 23, the tournament will host 120 teams across various categories, including participants from 17 countries. Highlights include NHL mascot day and online streaming of games. Despite high demand, the tournament will maintain its size, focusing on quality and future growth opportunities.
Celebrating 65 Years of Pee-Wee Hockey
This year marks a significant milestone as we celebrate the 65th anniversary of the International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament in Quebec. To honor this special occasion, the tournament will welcome a host of esteemed former Nordiques players, including the legendary Stastny brothers, Peter Forsberg, and Ron Tugnutt.
The traditional press conference announcing the event, scheduled to take place from February 12 to 23 at the Videotron Centre and Guy-Lafleur Pavilion, revealed an exciting lineup of former hockey stars.
Reconnecting with Hockey Legends
One of the highlights for hockey enthusiasts will be the return of Peter Forsberg. The former Swedish forward, who played just one season with the Nordiques in 1994-95, made a lasting impression by scoring 50 points in 47 games during his rookie year. It’s been over two decades since he last took to the ice in Quebec, participating in a preseason game with the Colorado Avalanche against the Canadiens back in 2002.
“Having Forsberg back is definitely exciting. Just like we welcomed Lindros on a previous occasion, we’re thrilled to bring Peter home,” expressed Patrick Dom, the tournament’s general manager.
In addition to Forsberg, fans can also meet Mathieu Olivier from the Blue Jackets and the iconic Joe Thornton, who has played for the Bruins, Sharks, Maple Leafs, and Panthers. They will be available during the traditional photo sessions, engaging with the community and sharing their love for hockey.
Moreover, the Stastny brothers will participate in the Sports Cards Expo at the Grand Marché in Quebec City on February 15, followed by Forsberg, Ron Tugnutt, and Mats Naslund on the following day.
Dom has been actively reaching out to current players, as the Pee-Wee Tournament coincides with the NHL break for the Four Nations Cup. He stated, “Mathieu Olivier expressed his excitement to return, having participated in the Pee-Wee Tournament himself. I’m in talks with several other players, and I would love to welcome two or three more active players.”
Expanding Horizons for the Tournament
This year’s tournament will maintain its current format, featuring 120 teams across five categories: AAA, AA-Elite, AA, BB, and female. Notably, a record 67 new teams have registered, showcasing the event’s growing popularity.
Representatives from 17 countries, including unique participants from China, South Korea, Spain, Hungary, and Kazakhstan, will join the festivities. The tournament will also feature returning favorites such as NHL mascot day and various family activities outside the Videotron Centre.
Fans can enjoy the matches on a giant screen at Place D’Youville, where the Hockey Hall of Fame will also showcase NHL trophies. “We wanted to extend our reach beyond the Videotron Centre and create a vibrant atmosphere throughout the city,” Dom added.
For the first time, tournament games will be streamed online on the PeeWeeTV.com platform, with an anticipated economic impact of $16 million from this prestigious event.
Managing Growth and Future Plans
Despite the overwhelming interest, the Pee-Wee Tournament management had to decline participation from 200 teams this year. Patrick Dom clarified, “Expanding the tournament isn’t feasible due to volunteer availability, scheduling, and costs. We’re committed to maintaining the quality of the event.”
While the women’s division remains at 12 teams, there are aspirations to expand. Dom mentioned, “We received 40 requests and aim to increase to 16 teams, but balancing this with existing commitments is complex.”
Looking ahead, Dom is optimistic about developing new projects associated with the tournament and promises exciting announcements in the near future. “Stay tuned for updates on initiatives we plan to undertake, not just in Quebec but beyond,” he concluded.
Notable Personalities to Attend
The International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament will also feature several prominent figures from the hockey world, including coaches and former players who will be present to support teams and engage with fans. Some noteworthy names for this 65th edition include:
- Jason Allison, Anaheim Jr. Ducks (coach and son)
- Aaron Asham, New York Islanders (coach)
- Bryan Berard, Colorado Extreme (coach)
- Michaël Bournival, Vert et Or of Séminaire Saint-Joseph (coach)
- Raymond Bourque, Boston Top Gun (grandson)
- Alexandre Daigle, Sorel–Sainte-Julie Mariners (coach and son)
- Jim Dowd, New England Prospects (coach)
- Martin Erat, Nashville Jr. Predators (coach)
- Alexander Frolov, Los Angeles Jr. Kings (coach)
- Sheldon Keefe, Oakville Rangers (son)
- Kim St-Pierre, Lac-Saint-Louis Lions (son)
- Alex Tanguay, Detroit Jr. Red Wings (coach and son)
- Joe Thornton, Davos Hockey Club (son)
- Scottie Upshall, Colorado Extreme (coach)
- Blake Wheeler, Connecticut Jr. Whalers (coach and son)
- Travis Zajac, New Jersey Devils (coach and son)
The atmosphere is sure to be electrifying as the tournament brings together young talent and hockey legends for an unforgettable celebration of the sport.