The Hastings Civic Arena was a busy place over the weekend as the Hastings Hockey Association wrapped up another successful Big Chill tournament, bringing together youth teams, families, and volunteers for two full days of competition and community spirit.
Sixteen teams took part in the tournament, filling the schedule with 32 games that kept the rink active from morning through evening. Players, coaches, and spectators packed the arena as teams from across the region competed in the Bantam A and Bantam B1 brackets.
When the final pucks dropped, Minneapolis Storm Hockey skated away with the Bantam A championship, while Osseo Maple Grove claimed the Bantam B1 title. Bloomington Jefferson finished second in the Bantam A bracket, followed by Forest Lake, Hastings, Apple Valley Burnsville Eastview, Rosemount, Spring Lake Park Coon Rapids, and Blaine. In Bantam B1 play, Forest Lake earned second place, with Mankato, North Branch, Roseville, Hastings, Farmington, and Moose Lake rounding out the standings.
Individual performances also stood out during the weekend. Owen Petzel of Minneapolis was named Bantam A most valuable player, and Charlie Johnson of Bloomington Jefferson earned top goalie honors in that bracket. In Bantam B1 action, Will Peterson of Osseo Maple Grove was recognized as most valuable player, while Forest Lake goalie Vincent Carney received the goaltending award.
Behind the scenes, a large group of volunteers helped keep the tournament running smoothly. Organizers made a point to recognize that effort afterward.
“BIG THANKS to the tournament sponsor Dugarel's Bar & Grill, our Tournaments Coordinator Verena Busch and the more than 100 parent volunteers that worked long hours to put on this fabulous tournament,” the association said. “It takes a lot of work to host 16 teams and put on 32 games and create a memorable experience for our guest players and parents. Great work!”
Local food vendors and supporters also played a role throughout the weekend, helping create a welcoming atmosphere for visiting teams and families.
“Thanks to The Brick Oven Bus and the Lock And Dam Eatery bagel truck and Universal Sports Auctions for supporting our tournament!” organizers added.
With the Big Chill now complete, attention is already turning to the next major event on the calendar. The association plans to host another large youth tournament later this winter, welcoming Peewee C and Bantam C teams to Hastings for several days of hockey.
“Thank you for supporting Hastings Hockey and see you at the rink!” the group said.
As players packed up their gear and families headed home, the weekend closed with a familiar feeling around the arena, tired legs, proud smiles, and the sense that another winter hockey tradition had once again lived up to its name.