Built on grit. Defined by competition.
The Defender Veterans Day Shootout brings tournament hockey to the heart of the Steel City for a weekend that celebrates competition, community, and those who have served.
Approximately 60 teams from 10U–18U AA and A divisions will take the ice at Palmer Imaging Arena and Pittsburgh Ice Arena, bringing three days of hard-nosed hockey to one of America's great sports cities.
With four guaranteed games, competitive divisions, and championships on the line, this is a weekend built for teams that aren't afraid to battle. Every shift is earned. Every game matters. And when championship day arrives, only the toughest will be left standing.
But the Veterans Day Shootout represents something bigger than the scoreboard.
Throughout the weekend, we come together to recognize and honor the men and women who have served our country while celebrating the teamwork, commitment, and perseverance that make hockey special.
Off the ice, Pittsburgh delivers a tournament destination with a character all its own. Explore the city's riverfronts, take in the skyline from the Duquesne Incline, experience its sports traditions, discover its neighborhoods, and enjoy everything the Steel City has to offer between games.
60 teams. Four guaranteed games. One hard-earned championship weekend.
Bring the compete. Embrace the battle.
Honor the game. Celebrate the steel.
The Veterans Day Shootout features round-robin play followed by playoffs, with each team guaranteed a minimum of four games.
Teams may play one or more round-robin games on Day 1 and Day 2, followed by consolation, semifinal, and/or championship games on the final day. Semifinal rounds and consolation games are not guaranteed.
Divisions are initially organized according to USA Hockey roster and age-group classifications for the upcoming season. Defender tournament operations may adjust placements on a case-by-case basis to create the most competitive matchups possible.
Schedule Release: Tournament schedules are expected to be released approximately 7–10 days before puck drop.
Teams should plan to arrive in the local area by the day before the tournament begins and must be prepared for games beginning as early as 7:00 AM on the first day.
Departure should be planned for after the final tournament day. Final games are expected to conclude by approximately 5:00 PM local time.
Travel Planning Notice: Tournament schedules may require adjustments leading up to the event. Teams and families are strongly encouraged to make refundable or flexible travel arrangements and avoid making non-refundable plans based solely on the initial tournament schedule.
Palmer Imaging Arena
100 Center Ice Dr, Delmont, PA 15626
Pittsburgh Ice Arena
700 Craigdell Rd, New Kensington, PA 15068
Shop merchandise ahead of the event!
