The Polar Pond Hockey Association has extended the sign-up deadline for its annual tournament in Hay River, Northwest Territories, until 5:00 p.m. on March 18, 2026. This final extension gives local teams more time to register for the outdoor event, which will take place on the ice from March 20 to March 22, 2026.
Since it was founded in 2008, the tournament has focused on the simple roots of the sport and raising money for community projects. Organizers created the event to give residents a fun activity during the northern winter and to celebrate hockey in its original outdoor setting.
While the tournament is a major social event in the community, it relies on cold weather to keep the outdoor rinks safe. In 2019, weather that was warmer than usual forced organizers to cancel the games entirely, showing how much the event depends on cold winter temperatures.
Over the years, the tournament has grown to include dozens of teams playing on many rinks across the river. The money raised from these games helps support local facilities and equipment, such as the town recreation centre.
