Defender Hockey Tournament - Veterans Day Shootout (Pittsburgh, PA)

OVERVIEW

Honor the Game. Celebrate the Steel.

Get ready to hit the ice in Pittsburgh for our annual Veterans Day Shootout, where youth hockey meets the heart of the Steel City! Over three thrilling days, approximately 60 teams from 10U–18U AA and A divisions will compete for division championships at Palmer Imaging Arena and Pittsburgh Ice Arena, each squad guaranteed four competitive, high-energy games. This weekend isn’t just about hockey—it’s about honoring those who serve, celebrating the city’s grit, and creating unforgettable memories for players and families alike.

When skates are off, Pittsburgh offers something for everyone: explore the iconic Duquesne Incline for breathtaking skyline views, walk the riverfront trails, dive into The Andy Warhol Museum, cheer at a Steelers or Penguins-themed fan experience, or grab a bite of the city’s legendary Primanti Brothers sandwiches. With fast-paced hockey, a city full of character, and a weekend dedicated to veterans and community, this tournament is a must-play stop for young athletes ready to compete, celebrate, and experience the best of Pittsburgh.

Featuring:
Multiple Divisions/Levels
Competitive Format
USA Hockey Sanctioned
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 4 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/or 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Disclaimer: We have noticed an increase in teams that have withdrawn from events at the last minute causing us to have to re-work the schedule.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.

ARENAS

DIVISION / RINK LOCATIONS

Each division will be scheduled for one or more games at a primary rink, a secondary rink, or a combination of rinks; additional rinks may be added or existing rinks may be removed or changed as needed, and final division assignments and rink locations will be determined at registration closure, prior to schedule release.

Palmer Imaging Arena
100 Center Ice Dr, Delmont, PA 15626

Pittsburgh Ice Arena
700 Craigdell Rd, New Kensington, PA 15068

HOTELS

As a reminder, this event is a Stay to Play Event. All teams are to utilize official event hotels. Please click on the link below to secure your team block. Please make sure to designate the number of rooms needed each night when creating the block. You will then receive a confirmation email that contains the booking information to forward to the team families so they may make their individual reservations. All hotels are convenient to arenas. Please make sure families only book via the link provided. Families are not to contact the hotel directly to book rooms for the event.

Click Here to Book Your Hotel!

Please note, the link below will allow you to initially block a maximum of 18 rooms. Once your initial block is filled, rooms can be requested . Please email ibhcbookings@gmail.com to request additional rooms (once the initial rooms have been filled).