Name of the Tournament: The Backyard Classic

Location of the Tournament: Canalside Buffalo, New York

What time of the year? February 4-5, 2023

What ages are welcomed to play? 6U - Adult 30 Over Rec and 30 Under Competitive

What's the size of the tournament? 85 Teams 600 players Divisions from 6U - Adult

How long has it been running? 14 years and it started in the founder's backyard

Any special entertainment or vendors? Live DJ all day long. T-Shirts, Buffalo Memorabilia, Sports Memorabilia, TBD

What are accommodations like nearby (hotels, Airbnb, etc.)? 5 Hotels, Dozens of Restaurants, Seneca Buffalo Casino

What makes this one unique? What sets it apart? It's the only pond hockey tournament in the area using nets and goalies. That's the way it started and the tradition has continued. 

Third Assist's Take: Buffalo is a winter town. Last week six feet of snow hit the city and the surrounding area. If you know you're dealing with a long winter and you're a hockey player, chances are you're going to look at building a rink or at least finding one with your friends. That's how it started for the tournament director Chris fourteen years ago when he built a rink in his backyard and put on a local tournament. The next year it grew, and then in each subsequent year it grew more until we have the event we're showcasing now in downtown Buffalo. This tournament goes down with one of the coolest stories from origins to its current form, and the pictures only reinforce the opinion this is one of the best winter events you'll find in the area this winter.

You can learn more about the weekend on their website www.buffalobackyardclassic.com.

Have you ever played in the tournament? Let us know your favorite aspects in the comments below.