Maine Pond Hockey Classic raises record $52,000

Despite unseasonably warm winter weather, the 12th annual Maine Pond Hockey Classic, held at Snow Pond, in Sidney, raised a record $52,000 for the Alfond Youth & Community Center in Waterville, which serves more than 5,000 youth in Maine. Hammond Lumber Company was the presenting sponsor.

This year’s highly-popular event attracted 70 teams and 560 players from New England, other U.S. states, Canada, and as far away as Australia. Due to the success of this year’s tournament, the 2025 Maine Pond Hockey Classic has already been scheduled for February 14-16, and is now accepting registrations at mainepondhockey.org.

“We’re extremely excited that the Maine Pond Hockey Classic has become Maine’s largest pond hockey tournament,” said Patrick Guerette, the tournament director. “We are beyond grateful to have so many players, young and old, return year after year to support our tournament and cause. Their passion and loyalty allows the Alfond Youth & Community Center to have an even greater and more positive impact on the lives of Maine youth.”

Guerette also noted that the Maine Pond Hockey Classic has adjusted to the warmer weather experienced in Maine this past season. “Adapting to the conditions is part of pond hockey; this year was no different, and we were able to play the best boot hockey ever on Snow Pond,” he said. “Everyone had so much fun we actually created a ‘Boot Hockey Division’ for next year’s event.”