Ringette enthusiasts, brace yourselves for an exhilarating weekend as Sault Ste. Marie plays host to Ringette Ontario’s Northeast Regional Ringette Championships. The tournament is set to take place from Friday, March 22nd to Sunday, March 24th, 2024, boasting participation from 52 teams across the northern region, including 5 local teams. This event promises to unite athletes, families, and fans alike, offering a spectacle of skill, sportsmanship, and camaraderie on the ice.
“We are thrilled to welcome ringette players, coaches, officials, and spectators to our vibrant community,” states Mark Richardson, NER Tournament Organizer. “Our club is committed to delivering an exceptional experience for all participants and showcasing the finest aspects of our community.”
The impact of the tournament goes well beyond the rink, bringing many economic benefits to our local community. “These championships provide hundreds of young athletes the opportunity to compete against their peers from Northern Ontario, while also delivering a substantial economic boost to our local businesses, hotels, attractions, and restaurants,” highlights Alana Kenopic, Manager of Tourism and Travel with the City of Sault Ste. Marie.
Hosted by the Sault Ringette Club, recipients of the 2022 City of Sault Ste. Marie Sports and Recreation Community Builder Award, the tournament will unfold at the John Rhodes Community Centre and the Northern Community Centre, our community’s newest recreation facility acclaimed as the ‘Home of the Sault Ringette Club.’ In addition to gripping on-ice action, the event will offer a range of engaging activities, including local vendors showcasing artisanal goods and delectable treats, providing spectators with opportunities to peruse and indulge between games.
“We take pride in hosting an event that celebrates not only the sport of ringette but also the essence of community and collaboration,” expresses Bruce Graham, President of the Sault Ringette Club, whose ringette credentials include coaching Team Sweden to gold in the World Ringette Championships in 2019. “While we aspire for our athletes to excel, our primary goal is to spotlight the sport we love to our community and visitors.”
The success of this event and the continued support for the Sault Ringette Club would not be possible without the generous contributions from community sponsors, including the City of Sault Ste. Marie’s tourism development fund. The backing of local sponsors plays a pivotal role in promoting youth sports and nurturing community involvement.
For more information regarding the Northeast Regional Ringette Championships or to learn more about the sport of ringette, please visit the Sault Ringette Club’s website at www.saultringette.com.
