Sun. Sand. Sizzle. Compete at the Shore. The heat is rising as Defender’s Summer Sizzler Series rolls into its second stop at the Jersey Shore! After an electric kickoff in Chicago, the action shifts east for a true beach-and-hockey experience—where 8U A/B/C and 10U–18U AA/A/B teams battle it out for division championships with a 4-game minimum. Games take place at Jersey Shore Arena and Howell Ice Arena, delivering fast-paced competition just minutes from the sand.
July at the Jersey Shore is the ultimate summer destination—perfect weather, ocean breezes, and nonstop energy. When players step off the ice, families can hit the beaches and boardwalks, enjoy rides and games at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, explore local shops, or grab classic shore favorites like pizza, ice cream, and fresh seafood. It’s the perfect balance of high-level hockey and summer vacation vibes.
This stop is where the series truly comes alive. After Chicago’s big-city kickoff, the Jersey Shore brings a mid-summer surge of energy, blending competition with a relaxed, fun atmosphere that players and families love. And with 8U games played on the pond, space is limited—so our 8U teams need to act fast to lock in their spot before it’s gone.
Three destinations. Three unique experiences. One unforgettable summer of hockey.
The Shore is calling—don’t miss your chance to bring the heat!
*Players must play their age group for the 2026-2027 season.
Featuring:
Multiple Divisions/Levels
Competitive Format
Certified Referees
Championship Awards
Online Stats & Standings via Defender GAME CENTER powered by Time To Score
Live Streaming via Black Bear TV
Round Robin with Playoffs (Minimum of 3 games). Teams may play one or more round robin games DAY 1, one or more round robin games on DAY 2 with consolation/semi-finals and championship games on the final day. NOTE: Semi-Final rounds and/or consolation games are not guaranteed.
Divisional allocation is based on USA Hockey roster/age group classification for the upcoming season. However, the tournament operations staff may adjust placements to fit individual team competitiveness on a case-by-case basis.
Tournament game schedule will be released 7-10 days prior to the event start date.
Teams must arrive and be available in the local area by the day before the tournament begins and be prepared to play at 7:00 AM local time on the first day of the tournament. Departure should be scheduled on or after the final tournament day, with final games expected to finish by roughly 5:00 PM local time.
Disclaimer: We have noticed an increase in teams that have withdrawn from events at the last minute causing us to have to re-work the schedule. Please DO NOT make any plans that cannot be refunded based on the schedule you receive.
