The 6th Annual Michigan Pond Hockey Classic Returns to Whitmore Lake

WHITMORE LAKE, MI; FRIDAY, JANUARY 24, 2013 – The 6th Annual Michigan Pond Hockey Classic held at Mac’s Marina on Whitmore Lake, has been RESCHEDULED.  The new tournament dates are FEBRUARY 8 – 10, 2013.  Although there are already several inches of ice, and no open water on the lake, the safety of our players and guests is our first priority.  The projected forecast for the next few weeks, is very good for ice conditions, therefore, we are confident the lake will be more than ready by February 8th.

The 2013 MPHC promises 3 days of nonstop 4-on-4 hockey action. The games will take place on manicured 75’ x 150’ rinks and will be 30 minutes long with no off-sides, no icing calls and no goalies. The tournament consists of 6 divisions to satisfy all skill levels.  This tournament is the largest 4-on-4 pond hockey tournament in Lower Michigan and continues to grow.  

In addition, the MPHC is the primary fundraising event for the Michigan Pond Hockey Sports Charities (MPHSC).  MPHSC is a non-profit organization that supports families in need of financial assistance for their children to participate in youth athletic programs. 

New to the tournament this year, the MPHC has forged a strategic partnership with Red Bull to host the only US qualifier for the Red Bull Open Ice International World Pond Hockey tournament.   The winner of the Red Bull division will receive a trip to Helsinki, Finland, courtesy of Red Bull, to compete against the European champion for the title.

Thousands of players and spectators are expected to enjoy the games and attend the festival-like atmosphere. The competition starts Friday night with the semi-finals and finals Sunday afternoon.  An opening ceremony will precede the Friday night games.  The weekend will be packed with non-stop fun for all with fireworks, heated entertainment tents, a live band, concessions, raffles, family activities and a skills competition on Saturday.                      

Updates and event information can be found at www.michiganpondhockey.com, or on the MPHC Facebook page at www.facebook.com/michiganpondhockeyclassic.