Seven 12U youth hockey teams from around the state will be converging in Manitowoc this weekend for the Pee Wee 4A State Tournament.
Tournament Director Emma Erickson is using this opportunity as a chance to highlight all of the great things Manitowoc has to offer.
“There’s eight teams total that make it to the state championship tournament,” she explained. “Give or take 14 kids on each team, that’s roughly 112 youth, and then add in their coaches, the families that come in and support, that’s a lot of people comming to Manitowoc.”
She tells SeehaferNews.com that they have been planning for this tournament for the past two years, and the committee has been hard at work making sure the families of the players and coaches have plenty to do outside of the rink all weekend long.
“We send out a newsletter to the teams highlighting what Manitowoc has to offer outside of the hockey games,” she said. “We want them to go out and enjoy the city as well. We’ve got a lot to offer.”
This includes restaurants and cafes, but also attractions like the Maritime Museum, Strand Adventures, and the YMCA.
Erickson has sent a letter to all of the teams highlighting all of the things to do and see, which she says will make sure everyone is prepared to make a fun mini-vacation out of what could be some of these player’s only chance at a state title.
Erickson noted, “It’s not just about hockey, even though that is the priority.”
As the host of the tournament, the Breakers squad got a free pass into the Tournament, but played well enough throughout the season that they earned the #2 seed, and will open up the action at 8:00 Saturday morning (March 8th).
The public is invited to come enjoy some of the best youth hockey in the state, and support the local squad as they look to raise a banner at the Manitowoc County Ice Center.
