Skipping the ticket booth
All P.E.I. Minor Hockey players getting free passes to World Under 17 Hockey Challenge
SUMMERSIDE – Every P.E.I. child registered for minor hockey in 2020 will receive a free tournament pass to the World Under 17 Hockey Challenge in Summerside and Charlottetown.
The challenge is being billed as the largest hockey event in P.E.I.’s history and will attract talent from all over the world.
The free passes are coming thanks to a partnership between the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge Host Committee and P.E.I. Credit Unions.
It’s estimated the deal will allow more than 5,200 kids the opportunity to attend the games for free.
“I’m excited to see the teams from Russia, from farther away,” said Brooke McGuigan, one of those minor hockey kids in line for a ticket.
“They’ll be all different skill levels, probably.”
Sarah Millar, General Manager of Consolidated Credit Union in Summerside, said Island Credit Unions are excited about the partnership and are hoping a lot of great experiences are had as a result.
“We’re certain this partnership will help to create countless memories for Island hockey players and we couldn’t be more proud to be part them,” said Millar. “I wish the host committee, athletes and fans the best experience ever on P.E.I. in 2020.”
Geoffrey Kowalski, executive director of Hockey P.E.I., said that a simple ‘thank you’ hardly seems enough to convey how much the gesture means for the local hockey community. He added it will have positive influences for years to come.
“(Kids) are going to see and be exposed to the passion of the game at an international, elite level, which is a very rare opportunity for many of us here,” said Kowalski.
“This is a major milestone for the members of Hockey P.E.I., its players and the sport of hockey, generally.”
Coinciding with Monday’s announcement, it was also revealed that a commemorative five-game flex package for the event is now on sale. These are available online at cupevents.ca or eastlinkcentrepei.com and at Credit Union Place Box Office or Eastlink Centre Box Office.
The official tournament schedule will be released soon.