Pee-wee Hockey Tournament
The Pee-Wee Quebec Tournament, founded in 1960 by the visionary Gérard Bolduc, is not just a hockey tournament; it’s a legendary celebration of youthful spirit and ice-cold passion that has captured the hearts of fans and players alike for over six decades.
Imagine the year 1959 when Bolduc, tired of traveling to Goderich, Ontario, with his team, decided to bring the hockey spotlight to his beloved Quebec City. With a heart brimming with conviviality, he birthed the idea of a Pee-Wee hockey tournament right in the heart of Quebec. It was a dream realized, and in 1960, 28 teams and 20,000 enthusiastic spectators gathered to kickstart this extraordinary journey.
But the magic didn’t stop there. In an audacious move, the tournament joined forces with the world-famous Carnaval de Québec, turning the frosty February air electric with excitement. This fusion of hockey and carnival created an unmatched spectacle that united the entire city in a frenzy of joy.
Coach Haggerty and Mid-Fairfield
Our Own Coach Sean Haggerty, once graced the tournament as a participant in 1989. And now, he’s back, not as a player, but as a guiding force, sharing his wisdom and experience with the young talents. His story is a testament to the tournament’s enduring legacy.
Mid-Fairfield carved their name into the tournament’s history books by claiming the championship in 2017, leaving a trail of inspiration for aspiring Pee-Wee players.
The First Female and Global Participation
As the years rolled on, the tournament took on a life of its own. In 1977, it bid farewell to its partnership with the Carnaval de Québec. Then, in 1980, M. Légaré introduced the Coupe Amérique, followed by the Coupe Québec, Classe International, and Coupe Internationale in the subsequent year.
In 1984, the tournament witnessed a groundbreaking moment when Manon Rhéaume donned the goalie gear and became the first female player to protect her team’s net, shattering barriers and inspiring future generations.
And then came 1989, an astonishing year when the world watched in awe as Russian and Japanese teams crossed oceans to participate in the tournament. The global reach of the Pee-Wee Quebec Tournament was undeniable.
Giving Back
But it’s not just about the game; it’s about giving back. The tournament has always held the Patro Roc-Amadour Foundation close to its heart. Over five decades, it donated an astonishing sum of over $2,133,000 to the foundation. The Temple of Friendship within the Patro Roc-Amadour stands as a testament to the tournament’s commitment, adorned with photos and trophies that echo the tournament’s storied history.
From its humble beginnings with 20,000 spectators in 1960 to a staggering 211,178 in 1999, the tournament’s ability to rouse passion and emotion remains unparalleled. It’s the spirit of the tournament that fuels this fervor, igniting the dreams of young players and fans alike. It’s a celebration of youth, camaraderie, and the sheer love of the game that has kept the Pee-Wee Quebec Tournament burning brightly for over six sensational decades.
Participating Countries since 1960
