Street hockey teams will be trying to play their way toward Hometown Hockey.
The Rogers Sportsnet TV program is coming to Nanaimo on Feb. 26 and the day before, two local teams will compete for the Selby Cup trophy signifying street hockey supremacy.
Event producer Cait McDonald said idea for the Selby Cup came from the Old City Quarter Association, and the Downtown Nanaimo Business Improvement Association liked the idea, especially after Nanaimo was selected as a Hometown Hockey host.
The Selby Cup playoffs will consist of three separate seven-team tournaments, for a total of 21 teams vying for the cup. Organizers are encouraged about the level of interest, though the first tourney Nov. 19 hadn’t completely filled up as of earlier this month.
“I think we all know that Nanaimo is a hockey city and it’s going for a good cause, so the response has been great,” said McDonald.
All proceeds from the tournament benefit the Boys and Girls Club of Central Vancouver Island.
There is a $250 entry fee, which allows a team to sign up as many as eight players aged 16 and over. The games will be played on Selby Street between Fitzwilliam and Franklyn streets. Teams can expect to play six 20-minute games of three-on-three hockey.
After the first Nov. 19 tourney, the event will continue Dec. 17 and Jan. 21. The two teams that fared the best will meet in the Feb. 25 final.
“Weather might be an issue, but I think Nanaimo’s used to sporting events rain or shine…” McDonald said. “It’s going to be fast-paced and fun. We want everyone to come and have a good time and come and hang out with one another.”
For more information about entering a team or sponsoring the event, please visit www.dnbia.ca.