UP Pond Hockey

Every year the UP Pond Hockey tournament begins at noon on a Friday in mid-February with over 150 teams facing off on Moran Bay in St. Ignace, Michigan.

Thousands of spectators attend each year to watch over 30 rinks of exciting hockey throughout the weekend. All registration fees go to helping St. Ignace Hockey Association. This event is one of the largest North America pond hockey championship and tournaments held! So, don't miss!

Amazing Moran Bay, St. Ignace is the 
UP Pond Hockey Location

Organizers hope that the ice on Moran Bay is around 16 inches thick closer to the shore and at least one foot where the games are being played. The Upper Peninsula's weather usually cooperates but when it does not the hockey games are moved to a lake that is located in the town of St. Ignace. Both locations have perfect conditions for attendees to enjoy the beautiful winter weather in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Although the Bay is the best location and choice location!

Mackinac Island in the Background

Let the UP POND HOCKEY Games Begin!

And May the Best Team Win!

This UP Pond Hockey tournament is growing in popularity not only with men but also women who love and play the sport as well. There are over 800 players who will play in the four-on-four tournament games - men and women.

Watch this incredible trailer about Pond Hockey history documentary...

Three Terrific DVD's To Watch At Home TO Get Inspired

The first tournament began in 2007.  Organizer, Mark Sposito of St. Ignace has great praise for all the volunteers who have helped create this terrific fun and exciting hockey event for all to enjoy. Once again St. Ignace is showing true community spirit in providing a memorable special event even in the dead of the winter!

The scheduled tournament events are:

• Friday and Saturday games begin at 9 a.m. and run until 5 p.m.
• Sunday champtionship games begin at 11 a.m. to about 1 p.m.
• The award presentation will occur after the last game in the warming tent which is between the Star Line Ferry and Sheplers Ferry.

There is food and drink at the warming tent for everyone to enjoy. Other fun events are "ice bowling" which begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday. It's just like the real game but only on ice! The fee to participate in the bowling tournament is $25 for a team of four. Proceeds will benefit the St. Ignace Recreation Department which is a great cause.

For more information on UP Pond Hockey events please click here.

and to locate hotels open year round in St. Ignace click here.

Mackinac Island Vacation Insider Tip: The ice is slick so make sure you wear boots that have some tread on them or walking will be tough! Also don't forget to wear sunglasses for the glare on the ice is blinding. Oh, and don't forget sun screen for your face and chap stick for your lips!