Thanksgiving Classic New Jersey Championship Recap
The Thanksgiving Classic in New Jersey, held from November 29 to December 1, 2024, featured intense competition across divisions ranging from 10U to 14U. Each championship game showcased the effort and determination of youth hockey teams striving for victory. Here’s a recap of the final matchups.
10U A Championship Recap
The Metro Militia (4-1-0) captured the 10U A division title with a commanding 5-1 win over the Cutting Edge Cobras (3-2-0). After a tied first period, the Militia surged ahead in the second and added two more goals in the third, sealing their championship victory with consistent offensive pressure.
10U B Championship Recap
The NJ Jets (4-1-0) emerged victorious in the 10U B division with a narrow 4-3 win over the NJ Falcons (3-2-0). The Falcons led after the first period, but the Jets responded with a dominant second period, scoring all four of their goals to secure the title.
12U A Championship Recap
The Mercer Chiefs (Brown) (4-1-0) dominated the 12U A division championship with an 8-1 victory over the Jersey Shore Wildcats (Red) (2-3-0). The Chiefs pulled away in the second period with four unanswered goals and maintained their momentum in the third to capture the championship in decisive fashion.
12U B Championship Recap
The Skylands Kings (White) (4-1-0) claimed the 12U B division championship with a thrilling 6-5 win over the NJ Colonials (3-2-0). Both teams exchanged goals in the first two periods, but the Kings managed to edge out the Colonials with a late third-period goal, securing the victory in a tightly contested game.
14U AA Championship Recap
The NJ Jets (5-0-0) took home the 14U AA division title with a 4-1 win over the Hunterdon Bears (2-3-0). The Jets set the tone early, scoring two goals in the first period and adding another in the second. Despite a third-period goal from the Bears, the Jets’ solid defense and efficient offense carried them to victory.
14U A Championship Recap
The Jersey Shore Wildcats (Red) (5-0-0) secured the 14U A division championship with a 2-1 overtime win against the NJ Jets (Black) (3-2-0). After a tightly contested regulation, the Wildcats found the game-winning goal in overtime, capping off an undefeated tournament run with a thrilling championship victory.
14U B Championship Recap
The NJ Bandits (Lemieux) (4-0-0) dominated the 14U B division championship with a 7-3 win over the Cutting Edge Cobras (White) (4-0-0). The Bandits pulled away with a strong third period, scoring four goals to cement their title in a high-scoring final.
The Thanksgiving Classic in New Jersey highlighted the dedication and skill of youth hockey players across all divisions. Congratulations to the champions for their impressive performances and to all teams for their hard work throughout the tournament.
Thanksgiving Classic Delaware Championship Recap
The Thanksgiving Classic, held in Delaware from November 29 to December 1, 2024, featured competitive matchups across the 8U B, 10U A, 12U A, 12U B, 14U A, and 16U A divisions. Teams showcased their skills and determination in pursuit of championship titles. Here’s a recap of the final games.
8U B Championship Recap
The Delaware Ducks (Koss) (3-0-1) captured the 8U B division title with a dominant 7-1 victory over the Delaware Ducks (Guinan) (1-2-0). The Koss team set the tone early, scoring three goals in the first period and adding four more in the second. Their strong start and balanced play secured the championship.
10U A Championship Recap
Team Philadelphia (3-0-0) claimed the 10U A division title with a 5-2 win over the Delaware Ducks (1-3-0). After a close first two periods, Team Philadelphia pulled away with three goals in the third. Their disciplined defense and offensive execution earned them the championship.
12U A Championship Recap
The Delaware Ducks (Dodd) (3-1-0) emerged victorious in the 12U A division, defeating the Hollydell Hurricanes (2-2-0) by a score of 8-2. After a tied first period, the Ducks took control, scoring three goals in the second and four more in the third. Their commanding offensive performance secured the championship.
12U B Championship Recap
The Cape May Kraken (4-0-0) secured the 12U B division championship with a 5-2 win over the Grundy Senators (Ulmer) (2-2-0). After trailing in the first period, the Kraken took the lead in the second and sealed the game with two more goals in the third, earning the title with a strong finish.
14U A Championship Recap
The Bowie Bruins (4-0-0) captured the 14U A division title with a 3-1 victory over the Old Bridge Jr. Knights (Livett) (3-1-0). The Bruins struck first and maintained their lead throughout the game, with consistent scoring across all three periods and a strong defensive effort.
16U A Championship Recap
The Philadelphia Blazers (4-1-0) took home the 16U A division championship with a 4-1 win over the Hollydell Hurricanes (3-2-0). The Blazers controlled the pace of the game, scoring in every period and limiting the Hurricanes to a single third-period goal to secure the championship.
The Thanksgiving Classic in Delaware delivered competitive matchups across all divisions, showcasing the effort and teamwork of each participating team. Congratulations to the champions for their hard-earned victories and to all players for their dedication and sportsmanship throughout the tournament.
Defender Hockey Tournaments Black Friday Sale
November 22–December 2, 2024
This holiday season, take advantage of our biggest deals of the year to secure your team’s spot in upcoming tournaments! Whether you’re gearing up for the Spring/Summer 2025 season or looking to join premier events like the President’s Cup or St. Paddy’s Smackdown, we’ve got the perfect offers for you.
Black Friday Deals
30% Off Tournament Registrations
From now until December 2, save 30% on one tournament registration per team.
Eligible Tournaments:
- Spring/Summer 2025 Tournaments
- President’s Cup
- St. Paddy’s Smackdown
Coupon Codes by Age Group:
- 10U: 10U-30%OFFBlackFriday
- 12U: 12U-30%OFFBlackFriday
- 14U: 14U-30%OFFBlackFriday
- 16U: 16U-30%OFFBlackFriday
- 18U: 18U-30%OFFBlackFriday
- 19U (Girls): 19U-30%OFFBlackFriday
- Adult: 30%OFFBlackFriday
Buy One Get One Free Offer
Starting November 29, take advantage of our exclusive Buy 1 Get 1 Free deal for Spring/Summer 2025 tournaments.
Here’s how it works:
- Register for one Spring/Summer 2025 tournament at full price.
- The free tournament will be added to your account as a benefit. This benefit can then be applied to a second tournament registration, making it $0 at checkout.
Important Details:
- Offer is limited to the first 10 teams.
- Applies only to tournaments ending by August 1, 2025.
- Both registrations must be for teams in the same age group (not two from the same organization).
How to Take Advantage
1. Find Your Event:
Explore our tournament lineup:
2. Register Your Team:
During registration, enter the coupon code for your team’s age group to receive the discount, or follow the process for the Buy 1 Get 1 Free offer.
Special Offers for Organizations
Registering multiple teams? Contact our sales team for exclusive organizational discounts:
- Chad: ccostello@defenderhockey.com
- Nick: nick@theshowts.com
Act Now—Sale Ends December 2, 2024!
Tournament slots are limited, and discounts are subject to availability. Don’t wait to secure your team’s place at a discounted rate.
Columbus Day Invitational Hershey Championship Recap
The Columbus Day Invitational, held in Hershey, PA, from October 12-14, 2024, brought together youth hockey teams across divisions from 8U to 18U. Each team competed fiercely to earn the championship title. Here’s a recap of the championship games in each division.
8U B Championship Recap
Potomac Patriots (3-0-0) faced off against Frederick Freeze-2 (2-1-0) in a highly anticipated 8U B division championship matchup.
10U A Championship Recap
The Palmyra Black Knights (Merrill) (5-1-0) captured the 10U A division title with a 6-0 victory over the Igloo Jaguars (5-1-0). The Black Knights set the tone early, scoring four goals in the first period and two more in the second. Despite strong efforts from the Jaguars, they were unable to find the back of the net, and Palmyra’s defense held strong to secure the shutout.
10U B Championship Recap
The Palmyra Black Knights (Stephenson) (4-1-0) claimed the 10U B championship with a 6-1 win over the NJ Colonials (Koze) (4-1-0). After a scoreless first period, the Black Knights struck twice in the second period and added four goals in the third to take control of the game. The Colonials managed one goal in the second period but couldn’t keep pace with Palmyra’s offense.
12U AA Championship Recap
The York Devils (2-2-0) earned a narrow 2-1 victory over the Royals (0-4-0) to win the 12U AA division championship. The game remained scoreless after the first period, but the Devils took a 1-0 lead in the second. Both teams exchanged goals in the third, but the Devils held on for the victory.
12U A Championship Recap
Flyers Youth (6-0-0) captured the 12U A division title with a 3-1 win over the PAL Blue Knights (4-2-0). Flyers Youth took control early, scoring two goals in the first period and one in the second. The Blue Knights managed a third-period goal, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Flyers’ solid defense and strong offensive performance.
12U B Championship Recap
The Palmyra Black Knights (Mullins) (6-0-0) secured the 12U B championship with a close 2-1 win over the Hamburg Hawks (4-2-0). The Black Knights took an early lead with a goal in the first period, but the Hawks responded in the second. Palmyra scored the game-winner in the third period, and their defense shut down the Hawks’ efforts to force overtime.
14U AA Championship Recap
The Jersey Shore Wildcats (3-2-0) claimed the 14U AA division championship with a thrilling 3-2 comeback win over the Palmyra Black Knights (4-1-0). The Black Knights took a 2-0 lead in the first period, but the Wildcats scored three unanswered goals in the second to secure the victory and the title.
14U A Championship Recap
In an all-Palmyra matchup, the Black Knights (13U) (5-1-0) defeated the Black Knights (Putt) (4-2-0) with a 3-2 win in the 14U A division. The Putt team scored first in the opening period, but the 13U Black Knights answered back in the second and third periods to edge out their clubmates and take home the championship.
14U B Championship Recap
The Grundy Senators (McDavid) (4-1-0) captured the 14U B division title with a 6-3 win over the York Devils (4-1-0). Both teams exchanged goals in the first period, but the Senators pulled away in the second with four goals. York tried to close the gap in the third, but Grundy’s lead proved too large to overcome.
18U A Championship Recap
The South Pittsburgh Rebellion (5-0-0) dominated the 18U A championship game with a 5-0 shutout over the Peconic Wildcats (3-2-0). The Rebellion took control early with a first-period goal and extended their lead with two more goals in each of the second and third periods. Their solid defensive play and relentless offensive pressure secured the championship title.
The Columbus Day Invitational in Hershey, PA, showcased the talent and determination of youth hockey players across all divisions. Each team brought their best effort, creating an exciting weekend of competitive hockey. Congratulations to all the champions and participants for their hard-fought performances and for making this tournament a memorable success.
Columbus Day Invitational, Connecticut Championship Recap
The Defender Columbus Day Invitational, held in Connecticut from October 12-14, 2024, brought together youth hockey teams across divisions from 8U to 18U. Each team fought hard to claim the championship title in their respective divisions. Here's a recap of the championship games.
8U B Championship Recap
The CT Clippers (4-0-0) defeated ECHO (3-2-0) 9-3 to claim the 8U B division title. The Clippers dominated the first period, scoring six goals and setting the game's tone. While ECHO scored three goals in the second period, the Clippers maintained their lead with a balanced attack to secure the championship.
8U C Championship Recap
The CT Clippers (4-1-0) secured their second division championship with a 7-3 win over the Peconic Wildcats (4-1-0) in the 8U C division. Both teams traded goals in the first period, but the Clippers pulled away in the second, scoring three unanswered goals. The teams remained scoreless in the third, and the Clippers captured the victory.
10U A Championship Recap
The Hartford Jr. Wolfpack (4-0-0) captured the 10U A championship with a 9-4 win over the Northwest Icehawks (3-1-0). The game saw the Wolfpack get off to a strong start with a three-goal first period and maintain their momentum throughout the game. Despite the Icehawks’ efforts, the Wolfpack's consistent offense and defensive control earned them the title.
10U B Championship Recap
MassConn (6-0-0) claimed the 10U B division title with a 6-0 shutout victory over the Hartford Jr. Wolfpack '15 (5-1-0). MassConn built a strong lead with three goals in the first period and never looked back, adding three more goals across the remaining periods while holding the Wolfpack scoreless to secure the championship.
12U A Championship Recap
The Long Island Royals (5-1-0) took home the 12U A division championship with a 6-1 win over the Hartford Jr. Wolfpack '12 (4-2-0). The Wolfpack started the game with a first-period goal, but the Royals responded with six unanswered goals, dominating the second and third periods to claim the title.
12U B Championship Recap
ECHO (5-0-0) edged out the CT Clippers (4-1-0) in a close 3-2 win to secure the 12U B championship. ECHO came out strong in the first period with two goals and managed to hold off a second-period surge by the Clippers to secure the victory with a decisive third-period goal.
14U A Championship Recap
The Northwest Icehawks (5-0-0) claimed the 14U A division title with a 4-1 win over the Reston Raiders (4-1-0). The Icehawks built a substantial lead early, scoring two goals in the first period and two more in the second. The Raiders managed one goal in the second period, but the Icehawks’ defense shut them down in the final period to take home the championship.
16U A Championship Recap
The Reston Raiders (4-1-0) captured the 16U A championship with a 4-2 victory over the Hartford Jr. Wolfpack (4-1-0). The Raiders’ explosive first period saw them score all four goals, while the Wolfpack managed two in response. Despite a hard-fought game, both teams were held scoreless in the final two periods, allowing the Raiders to clinch the title.
18U A Championship Recap
The Northwest Icehawks (5-0-0) dominated the 18U A division championship with a 6-0 shutout win over West Seneca (3-2-0). The Icehawks controlled the game from start to finish, with a solid second period where they scored four goals. West Seneca couldn't find the back of the net, and the Icehawks' solid defense secured their championship victory.
The Columbus Day Invitational, Connecticut, showcased youth hockey players' competitive spirit and impressive skills across all divisions. Each game brought excitement and memorable moments, with teams giving their all to pursue the championship. Congratulations to all the champions and participants for their hard work and outstanding performances throughout the tournament.
College Exposure Showcase Championship Recap
The College Exposure Showcase, hosted by Defender Hockey Tournaments, took place from September 6-8, 2024, in York, PA. This event brought together top-level teams from the 15U to 18U age groups, providing a platform for players to showcase their talents in front of college scouts. Each division featured intense competition, and the games were a testament to the hard work and dedication of the young athletes. Below are the highlights from each division's championship game.
15U AA Championship Recap
The Grundy Senators (5-0-0) secured the 15U AA division title with a 3-0 victory over the Mercer Chiefs (2-3-0). The Senators struck early with a goal in the first period and kept up the pressure throughout the game. Two more goals in the third period sealed the win for the Grundy Senators, showcasing their solid defense and effective offense.
16U AA Championship Recap
The Loudoun Knights (5-0-0) claimed the 16U AA division championship with a narrow 3-2 win against the Igloo Jaguars (3-2-0). After a scoreless first period, both teams came alive in the second. The Jaguars took the lead, but the Knights mounted a strong comeback in the third period with two goals, ultimately securing the championship.
16U A Championship Recap
The Baltimore Youth Hockey Club (5-0-0) emerged victorious in the 16U A division, defeating the York Devils (4-1-0) by a score of 3-1. The Baltimore team established their lead early, netting two goals in the first period. Despite a late goal by the Devils in the third period, Baltimore's early offensive push and tight defense held firm to claim the title.
18U AA Championship Recap
The Pittsburgh Vengeance (5-0-0) emerged as the 18U AA division champions with a 5-3 victory over the Lancaster Firebirds (4-1-0). The Firebirds took an early lead with two goals in the first period, but the Vengeance fought back to level the score by the end of the second. The third period saw Pittsburgh pull ahead with two more goals, securing their hard-earned championship win with solid teamwork and relentless play.
18U A Championship Recap
Chester County Cougars (5-0-0) triumphed over the Reston Raiders (Silver) (4-1-0) with a 3-1 win in the 18U A division. The Cougars jumped to an early lead with two goals in the first period. The Raiders attempted a comeback with a goal in the second, but the Cougars added another goal in the third period to maintain their lead and win the championship.
The College Exposure Showcase was a fantastic display of competitive youth hockey, where players gave their all on the ice and demonstrated their skills to college scouts. The determination and effort of each team made this event a remarkable experience. Congratulations to all the teams and players for their outstanding performances.
Delaware Summer Sizzler Championship Recap
The Delaware Summer Sizzler, held from July 19-21, 2024, in Newark, DE, brought together youth hockey teams from various age groups, showcasing their talent and passion for the sport. The event featured competitive matchups across six divisions, with teams striving to claim the championship titles. Each game was filled with remarkable performances and spirited efforts. Here are the highlights from each division's championship game.
10U A Championship Recap
The MT Laurel Jackals (3-0-0) displayed dominance in their 8-1 victory over CV3 Hockey Development (1-3-0). The Jackals set the tone early with three goals in the first period and continued to control the game, adding three more in the second and two in the third. CV3 Hockey Development managed a lone goal in the first period but couldn't match the Jackals' relentless offense.
10U B Championship Recap
CV3 Hockey Development (3-0-0) secured a 7-3 win against Atlantic Fire (2-2-0) in the 10U B division championship. CV3 took an early lead with two goals in the first period and maintained their momentum throughout the game. Despite Atlantic Fire's efforts to come back, scoring in the second and third periods, CV3's strong performance ensured their victory.
12U A Championship Recap
The Delaware Patriots (3-1-0) triumphed over the Brandywine Outlaws - 1 (3-1-0) with a 3-2 comeback win. After trailing 1-0 at the end of the first period, the Patriots rallied in the third period with three goals to secure the championship. The Outlaws fought hard, adding another goal in the third, but the Patriots' resilience led them to victory.
14U A Championship Recap
Brandywine Outlaws - 1 (4-0-0) edged out the Regency Ice Cats (2-2-0) in a close 3-2 game to win the 14U A division title. The teams were tied at 1-1 after the first period, and the second period saw no goals. The Outlaws managed to pull ahead in the third period with two goals, securing their win despite a late goal from the Ice Cats.
16U A Championship Recap
The Brandywine Outlaws - 2 (5-0-0) dominated the SJ Stingers (3-2-0) with an 11-1 victory in the 16U A division championship. The Outlaws exploded with six goals in the first period and never looked back, adding two more in the second and three in the third. The Stingers scored once in the first period but were overwhelmed by the Outlaws' offensive onslaught.
18U A Championship Recap
The Chesapeake Bulldogs (3-0-0) emerged victorious in the 18U A division with a 3-1 win over the SJ Stingers (1-3-0). The game remained scoreless through the first period, but the Bulldogs took control in the second with two goals. The Stingers managed to score once in the second period, but the Bulldogs sealed the win with another goal in the third period.
The Delaware Summer Sizzler showcased exceptional hockey talent, with each game reflecting the dedication and hard work of the teams and players. The competitive spirit and sportsmanship displayed throughout the tournament were commendable. Congratulations to all the champions and participants for making the event a memorable success.
New Jersey Summer Sizzler Championship Recap
The New Jersey Summer Sizzler, held from July 12-14, 2024, showcased some of the best youth hockey talent across various age groups, from 8U to 18U. Teams competed fiercely over the weekend, demonstrating impressive skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Each division witnessed closely contested matches, with players giving their all to clinch the championship titles. The following are the recaps of the championship games for each division.
8U A Championship Recap
Parker’s Army (4-0-0) dominated the Road Runners (2-2-0) with a decisive 8-1 victory. Parker’s Army set the tone early, scoring five goals in the first period and maintaining their momentum throughout the game. The Road Runners managed to net one goal in the second period, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Parker’s Army’s strong offense.
10U A Championship Recap
The Cutting Edge Cobras (4-0-0) secured a hard-fought 6-4 win over Nutley Clifton (White) (2-2-0). The Cobras jumped to an early lead with two goals in the first period. Nutley Clifton fought back in the second period, scoring three goals, but the Cobras held their ground and added three more goals in the final period to clinch the title.
10U B Championship Recap
Mill St. Monsters (4-0-0) claimed the 10U B division title with a convincing 9-3 victory over CNY Squid (2-2-0). The Monsters displayed a balanced attack, scoring three goals in each period while maintaining a strong defense. The CNY Squid managed to score in the first and third periods but couldn’t match the Monsters’ relentless offense.
12U A Championship Recap
Saugerties Kraken (4-1-0) triumphed over PA Horsemen (4-1-0) in a thrilling 4-3 overtime victory. Both teams were evenly matched, with the score tied at 3-3 at the end of regulation. The Kraken secured the championship with an overtime goal, demonstrating their resilience and determination in a closely contested match.
12U B Championship Recap
PA Horsemen (4-0-0) dominated the Mohawk Valley Warriors (1-3-0) with a 7-0 shutout to win the 12U B division. The Horsemen scored three goals in the first period and four more in the second, maintaining a solid defense throughout the game. The Warriors struggled to break through the Horsemen’s defense and were unable to score.
14U AA Championship Recap
Metro Militia (3-1-0) edged out the Cutting Edge Cobras (2-2-0) in a high-scoring 6-5 match to win the 14U AA division title. The Cobras took an early lead with two goals in the first period, but the Militia responded with consistent scoring in each period. Despite a strong third period by the Cobras, the Militia held on for the victory.
14U A Championship Recap
22 Elite (4-0-0) narrowly defeated the Bikini Bottom Bruisers (3-1-0) with a 4-3 win to capture the 14U A division championship. The Elite took control early with two goals in the first period and maintained their lead throughout the game. The Bruisers mounted a comeback in the third period but fell just short.
16U AA Championship Recap
Brick Hockey Club (3-2-0) emerged victorious against Saugerties Kraken (Little) (3-2-0) in a tightly contested 4-3 game. The Brick Hockey Club set the pace early with three goals in the first period. Despite a strong effort from the Kraken, including goals in the first and third periods, the Brick Hockey Club secured the win with solid defensive play.
16U A Championship Recap
NJ Anchors (4-0-0) clinched the 16U A division title with a 2-1 victory over 22 Elite Selects (3-1-0). The Elite Selects scored first in the opening period, but the Anchors responded with goals in the second and third periods. The Anchors’ defense then held firm to maintain their lead and secure the championship.
The New Jersey Summer Sizzler provided an exciting weekend of hockey, with each team showcasing their talents and fighting hard for the championship titles. The event highlighted the competitive spirit and dedication of youth hockey players, promising a bright future for the sport. Congratulations to all the teams and players for their outstanding performances.
College Hockey Exposure Showcase at York Ice Arena: The Premier Pathway to Collegiate Success
This September, the ice at York Ice Arena will come alive as the College Hockey Exposure Showcase takes center stage from the 6th to the 8th. This highly anticipated event is a must-attend for 15U-18U players eager to make their mark and catch the eyes of college scouts.
The showcase guarantees each team a minimum of four games in a competitive round-robin format, providing ample opportunities for players to demonstrate their skills and teamwork. With scouts from leading ACHA and AAU programs in attendance, the event serves as a critical platform for young athletes to advance their hockey careers.
Last year, the showcase drew coaches and scouts from prestigious programs such as UMBC, Neumann, University of Maryland, Saint Joseph's University, West Chester, Bryn Athyn College, Central Michigan University, Kentucky, Kent State, and Denison University. This year, we anticipate an even greater turnout as we continue to expand our network of college affiliations.
Participants are required to submit detailed rosters and recruiting profiles, which will be shared with attending coaches. This ensures that every player has the opportunity to be thoroughly evaluated, making the showcase an essential step for those aiming to play at the collegiate level.
In addition to the on-ice competition, the event offers invaluable interactions with coaches and scouts. Players will receive insights and guidance on navigating the path to college hockey, making the showcase not only a competition but a comprehensive development experience.
College and junior scouts are encouraged to register for the event by completing the College Exposure Showcase Scout Registration form here.
Mark your calendars for the College Hockey Exposure Showcase at York Ice Arena. This event is more than just a tournament—it's the gateway to collegiate hockey success.