By / Darren Bayrack
Many future National Hockey League stars have showcased their talents during the 15-year history of the Stampede Challenge AAA Hockey Tournament.
This month, tournament alumni Shea Weber, Travis Zajac and Braydon Coburn won silver medals at the 2009 International Ice Hockey Federation World Championship in Switzerland.
All three previously played for their respective club teams at the Stampede Challenge.
This year’s tournament – played at Calgary area arenas – will begin June 26 and finish up with finals on June 29.
The tournament is comprised of nine male divisions (Major Tyke, Minor Novice, Major Novice, Minor atom, Major Atom, Minor Peewee, Major Peewee, Minor Bantam and Major Bantam) and two female brackets (Peewee and Bantam).
The Stampede Challenge has traditionally attracted teams from throughout North America and 2009 should be no exception.
In addition, to the aforementioned players on Team Canada, many other National Hockey Leaguers have previously played in the Stampede Challenge including Zach Parise of the New Jersey Devils, who is one of three finalists for the Lady Byng Trophy as the NHL’s most sportsmanlike player.
Past Stampede Challenge players include Ryan Getzlaf of the Anaheim Ducks, Brent Seabrook and Jonathan Toews of the Chicago Blackhawks, Robert Nilsson and Kyle Brodziak of the Edmonton Oilers, Dion Phaneuf of the Calgary Flames, goalie Cam Ward of the Carolina Hurricanes, Josh Gorges of the Montreal Canadiens and Mason Raymond of the Vancouver Canucks.
With such a rich history of future superstars lacing up their skates at the Stampede Challenge, next month would be a great time to visit your local rink to enjoy the action. Visit www.stampedechallenge.com for game times and locations. |