The Town of Oyster Bay will host the large school division of the New York State Club School Hockey Tournament – sanctioned by the AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) from Friday, Feb. 28 through Sunday March 2, according to Town Supervisor John Venditto. Some of the best high school teams from throughout New York State will come to the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center, 1001 Stewart Ave. in Bethpage, for this prestigious tournament. The admission/donation for the event will be $10 for adults for the day or $15 for the weekend. Students with school ID will be $5 and children under 12 are free.
“Ice Hockey, throughout Long Island and New York State, is continuing to grow in popularity, producing accomplished players who have gone on to compete at very high levels,” Venditto said.
Steve Rupp, President of the Nassau County High School Hockey League, said he was looking forward to the upcoming tournament.
“It’s great for the game,” Rupp said. “Many areas from throughout New York State, including Long Island, are proud of their local hockey programs and this tournament gives teams from across New York the excitement of competing for the state crown. In addition, our players in Nassau County are looking forward to playing at the Town of Oyster Bay’s Ice Skating Center, which is among the finest rinks in the country.”
Massapequa High School and Syosset High School are among the local teams slated to compete. Two years ago, Massapequa High School won this tournament.
Venditto said the tournament will have a special atmosphere.
“We have a lot of respect for the traditions of hockey in New York State,” he said. “I am pleased to help facilitate these championship games, which will surely create lasting memories for the players.”
The supervisor said the tournament will also serve as a fine example for the Town’s young hockey players in attendance, who can one day aspire to compete against the best.
“The game will feature terrific role models for our young hockey players,” said Venditto. “It will be a great weekend of hockey and we’re pleased to have it right here in the Town of Oyster Bay.”
