Syracuse Pond Hockey Classic set to return to the ice of Hiawatha Lake (hopefully) in January

The Syracuse Pond Hockey Classic will return to the ice of Syracuse’s Hiawatha Lake on Saturday, Jan. 27, 2024.

And, just in case Mother Nature does not cooperate like last year, an alternate spot has been chosen that will guarantee the tournament goes on as scheduled.

The tournament returns for a third competition, with 16 teams set to compete on six outdoor rinks.

Three spots are still available for the 2024 tournament. Registration is open at https://syracusepondhockeyclassic.com/register.

Last year, the Pond Hockey Classic was postponed a week and then cancelled because warm temperatures prevented the lake’s ice from forming.

This year, organizers have made a solid contingency plan.

If the weather prevents play on Hiawatha Lake, the tournament will be moved to Clinton Square in downtown Syracuse on the same date, Jan. 27.

The presenting sponsor of the 2024 tournament is Vinny Lobdell and Family. Portions of the proceeds from the tournament benefit the St. Baldrick’s Foundation/Luke’s Army Pediatric Cancer Research Fund.

“Our teams are chomping at their mouthguards to get back out there for the Syracuse Pond Hockey Classic,” said Tim O’Donnell, tournament director. “We thank our presenting sponsor, Vinny Lobdell and Family, for supporting our community.”

Round robin play will begin at 10 a.m. Championship round play is scheduled to start around 3:30 p.m.

Onondaga Park has space for a large crowd of spectators on the banks of Hiawatha Lake. The event will also feature music, food, and beverages.

Joining Vinny Lobdell and Family as tournament sponsors are the Syracuse Crunch, syracuse.com/The Post Standard and JSK Enterprises. Partners are the City of Syracuse Department of Parks Recreation and Youth and Greater Strathmore Neighborhood Association (GSNA).

Tournament information is at https://syracusepondhockeyclassic.com/ or by email at syracusepondhockeyclassic@gmail.com.