The SBS U13 Ice Hockey Tournament was held at the Gore Multisports Complex on Sunday, attracting five teams from Otago and Southland and drawing many spectators.
Tournament organiser Warrick Morris said it was a good weekend for the sport in Gore.
"I’ve been organising [the tournament] for five years, and I think the level of play is more advanced than what it was five years ago."
Young players were picking up the rules faster and at a younger age, Morris said.
He was the referee for many of the games, getting first-hand exposure to the improvements.
"They seem to be able to pick up the rules relatively easy."
Players from Queenstown, Alexandra and Dunedin came to compete in the 21st year of the annual tournament.
The numbers were good and it was well supported, he said.
"Everyone brings their family."
The tournament began at 9am and wrapped up at 4.30pm when it was won by the Dunedin side.
Another tournament for young players who had never tried ice hockey was also held at the rink, he said.
"That was really good — really good numbers so we were pleased about that."
Three teams from Gore, one from Alexandra and three players from Tekapo competed, he said.
Those games were competed cross-ice, played across the width rather than length of the rink.
"It’s only three against three. The idea is that you’re in such an small area that even if you can’t skate very [well] you’re never far away from the action."
Players competed in cross-ice games until they turned 12, he said.
The tournament was sponsored by SBS Bank.
"I want to thank [them] for sponsoring the tournament."
