The Brick Invitational Hockey Tournament, an annual showcase for elite youth hockey teams, begins Sunday at West Edmonton Mall's Ice Palace. The tournament draws teams from across North America, featuring players aged 10 and under competing in a week-long event.
Tournament Details and History
Now in its 36th year, the Brick Invitational has become a premier event for young hockey talent, with many alumni going on to play in the NHL. The tournament will feature 10 teams divided into two divisions, playing a round-robin format followed by playoffs. Games are scheduled daily from June 28 through July 4.
According to organizers, the event is expected to draw thousands of spectators to the mall's ice complex. "We're thrilled to host another year of incredible hockey," said tournament director Mark Wilson. "This event showcases the best young players and gives families a chance to enjoy world-class competition."
Impact on Local Community
West Edmonton Mall, one of North America's largest shopping and entertainment complexes, benefits from increased foot traffic during the tournament. Local hotels and restaurants report higher bookings during the event, which coincides with Canada Day celebrations. In 2025, the tournament contributed an estimated $2.5 million to Edmonton's economy.
The Ice Palace, which features four NHL-sized rinks, will host all games. Admission is free for spectators, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. The tournament also includes skills competitions and autograph sessions with former NHL players.
Notable Alumni and Future Stars
Past participants include Connor McDavid, Sidney Crosby, and Nathan MacKinnon, who all played in the Brick Invitational before becoming NHL superstars. This year's field includes several highly touted prospects, including forward Liam Chen of the Toronto Titans, who led his team in scoring during the qualifying rounds.
"It's an honor to play in this tournament," Chen said. "I've watched it on TV since I was little, and now I get to be part of it. The competition is intense, but that's what makes it fun."
Schedule and Viewing Information
The puck drops Sunday at 9:00 AM MT with a matchup between the Vancouver Vipers and the Calgary Flames. Games run throughout the day, with the championship final scheduled for July 4 at 2:00 PM MT. Fans unable to attend can watch live streams on the tournament's website.
For more information, including full schedules and team rosters, visit the Brick Invitational official site.
