In an effort to enhance competitive balance, game quality, and the overall tournament
experience, Defender Hockey Tournaments is introducing an updated division game format for
select divisions.

Divisions with a sufficient number of teams will follow a two-phase format:

• Pool Play: Teams will compete in scheduled pool games to establish initial seeding. Pool Play
matchups are structured after review of teams in each division. Standings are based on points
earned (tiebreakers applied if necessary).

• Bracket Play: Following Pool Play, teams will be re-seeded based on pool results and divided
into competitive brackets.

Key Benefits:
• More meaningful and competitive matchups
• Teams play opponents of similar performance levels

Additional Information:
• Division-specific game schedules and bracket diagrams are provided on the following slides
for clarity and transparency.
• Final formats are determined by the number of teams in each division