The Pat Larock Memorial Tournament, a cherished event in the Peterborough youth hockey community, made a triumphant return this weekend, after a hiatus due to COVID-19 restrictions and spring tryouts.
Organized by dedicated committee members including Seamus McDougall, the tournament served as a platform for teams to kickstart their seasons, foster team camaraderie, and honor the legacy of Pat Larock.
The AAA tournament spanned three days from Friday to Sunday, hosting teams from various regions across the province, including Ottawa, Kitchener, and London, with the Quinte Red Devils winning the U10 Division and the Hamilton Steel taking home the title for the U11s.
McDougall says the diverse participation allowed teams to face new opponents, creating an exciting and competitive atmosphere for all involved.
One of the notable aspects of this year’s event was the inclusion of the U10 age group, which marked the first-ever AAA tournament for these young athletes. The tournament offered them a unique experience that they will undoubtedly remember throughout their hockey journeys.
While the games were undoubtedly the main attraction, the favorable weather conditions encouraged players and their families to enjoy some outdoor activities during downtime. Parents and kids were seen bonding in the parking lot, tossing footballs, and relishing the opportunity to simply be kids.
McDougall says this is the first of three tournaments being hosted in Peterborough this season, with the goal of having four next year.
McDougall, who is part of a four-member committee overseeing the tournament, adds that they are fortunate to have multiple hands on deck to assist with the leadership throughout these tournament weekends, ensuring that responsibilities are shared and manageable.
The tournament’s namesake, Pat Larock, was celebrated throughout the weekend. Larock, a lifetime member and executive in the Peterborough hockey community, had a lasting impact on the city and the organization. The decision to name the tournament in his honor underscores his enduring legacy and his contributions to the sport.
As the Pat Larock Memorial Tournament concluded successfully, it served as a reminder of the resilience of the youth hockey community in Peterborough, with teams, families, and organizers coming together to celebrate the sport and honor the memory of a beloved figure, ensuring that Pat’s name will forever be associated with this annual event.
(Written by: Scott Arnold)