THE CIRCLE K CLASSIC RETURNS WITH EXCITING NEW FORMAT FOR 2024
Circle K Classic
Dec. 16, 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THE CIRCLE K CLASSIC RETURNS WITH EXCITING NEW FORMAT FOR 2024
CALGARY, AB - The Circle K Classic, the longest-running U18 AAA hockey tournament in Western Canada, is back for its 46th year, promising thrilling action from December 27th to January 1st. Hosted at Calgary’s Max Bell Arena and the Seven Chiefs Sportsplex, this year’s tournament features 32 teams from North America and Hungary showcasing the best young hockey talent from leagues including the AEHL, BCEHL, SMAAAHL, NSAAAMHL, CSSHL and NAPHL.
NEW FORMAT
This year the tournament format will change slightly, providing more teams a shot at claiming the coveted Circle K Classic Championship. In 2022 the tournament format was altered slightly to allow more teams to enter, 32 teams, up from the traditional 25 teams prior to that. During the last few years only one team from each pool advanced past the round-robin stage to compete in the “A” division. This year, however, the top two teams from each of the eight pools – dubbed the “Sweet Sixteen” – will have the chance to advance and compete for the championship. With two additional games added to the schedule, the new format increases the level of competition and ensures that 16 teams will now vie for a spot in the prestigious “A” division final.
“This new format is a game-changer,” said Hockey Calgary’s Executive Director, Kevin Kobelka. “It reflects our commitment to providing more opportunities for teams to showcase their skills and compete at the highest level without being knocked out from a slow tournament start. Fans can expect even more intense and exciting matchups this year.”
TEAM HIGHLIGHTS
The action-packed tournament schedule runs daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., with the number-one ranked team in the U.S., Shattuck-St. Mary’s returning as the defending champions. Joining them are the four Calgary-based host teams – the Calgary Royals, Calgary Buffaloes, Calgary Northstars, and UPP Calgary NW Flames – alongside other elite teams from across Canada, the United States, and Hungary.
Calgary and area teams are gearing up for the tournament as they continue league play over the next week. Players and coaches will be available for media interviews following select games during this period:
Wednesday, December 18th
Calgary Northstars vs. Okotoks Bow Mark Oilers
Max Bell - Bracko
6:45 pm MST
Saturday, December 21st
Calgary Cannex Buffaloes vs. Okotoks Bow Mark Oilers
Cardel Rec South 3
6:30 pm MST
Sunday, December 22nd
Calgary United Pacific Projects (NW) Flames vs. Airdrie CFR Bisons
Father David Bauer
3:00 pm MST
Fans won’t want to miss this unforgettable showcase of talent and determination, culminating in the finals on New Year’s Day. The Circle K Classic continues to be a highlight of the hockey season, where future stars are made, and hockey traditions are celebrated. For more information, visit www.circlekclassic.ca
TICKET INFORMATION (Tickets on sale now)
Tournament Pass:
- $55 – Visit any Calgary and surrounding area Circle K store and save $10 by scanning the in-store QR code.
- $65 – Available online or at the door.
Day Pass:
- $20 – Valid for any round-robin, quarter-final, or semi-final day.
- $25 – Valid for the final day.
(*fees + GST not included)
(**kids 12 & under - FREE)
Media Contacts:
Amy Nightingale
General Manager - Circle K Classic
ckcgm@hockeycalgary.com
#587-892-8092