KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – While much of the excitement in the area about hockey has been focused on the Western Michigan University team’s trip to the Frozen Four later this month, Kalamazoo is set to host the USA Hockey 14U Tier II National Championship Tournament from April 2-6 at Wings Event Center and Wings West Ice Arena.
The tournament, hosted by the Kalamazoo Optimist Hockey Association (KOHA), will bring in 44 teams and approximately 800 participants from across the country to compete for a national title.
“We are extremely honored to host a USA Hockey National Championship once again here in Kalamazoo,” says Matt Kakabeeke, KOHA’s Executive Director. “It is an incredible way for our local players—many of whom grew up learning to skate and play with KOHA—to cap off their Tier II hockey journey.”
KOHA kicks off their Nationals journey on Wednesday with a matchup against the Clearwater Ice Storm (FL), led by Luke Bafia—a Western Michigan University Bronco Hockey alumnus and former KOHA coach.
Tournament Timeline:
Round Robin Divisional Play: April 2-4
Quarter & Semi-Finals: April 5
Championship Games: April 6 at Wings West
KOHA’s 14U AA K-Wings Schedule:
Wednesday, April 2 – 5:15 PM | Wings Event Center
Thursday, April 3 – 1:15 PM | Wings West
Friday, April 4 – 11:15 AM | Wings Event Center
This national tournament comes on the heels of KOHA welcoming the Irish National 17U Hockey Team during the Green Ice Classic in mid-March.
View the full schedule for USA Hockey Nationals in Kalamazoo here.
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