Defender - Denis Duplanti Memorial Tournament is BACK!

Defender Tournaments value sports and entertainment and believe our events should be fun and competitive.

One of the most in-demand spring tournaments is back — and if you’ve been around Defender events, you already know:

The Denis DuPlanti Memorial Tournament sells out every year.

Spots are already filling for May 8–10, 2026, and once divisions are full, registration will close. If this event is on your schedule, now is the time to lock it in.

More than just a tournament, this event honors Denis DuPlanti — a passionate member of the hockey community whose love for the game left a lasting impact. A devoted fan and familiar face at the rink, Denis shared that passion with everyone around him, especially while supporting his son’s hockey journey. He also dedicated his time giving back to the game, creating a welcoming and positive environment for players and families alike.

Today, the tournament continues that legacy — bringing teams together for a high-energy weekend of competition, community, and great hockey. With games played across top-tier facilities in the Philadelphia area and plenty to do off the ice, it’s a true destination tournament experience for teams and families.

Tournament Highlights

10U – 18U Divisions (AA, A & B levels)
Round Robin format with playoffs
Live stats & standings through Defender Game Center
Live streaming available on Black Bear TV
Championship awards for division winners

The Denis DuPlanti Memorial Tournament is back for 2026 — and if past years are any indication, it won’t stay open for long. This event sells out every year, so now is the time to secure your team’s spot.

Join teams from across the region May 8–10, 2026 for one of Defender Hockey’s most anticipated spring events. This tournament brings together strong competition and a great tournament atmosphere across 10U through 18U divisions.

Tournament Highlights

10U – 18U Divisions (AA, A, and B levels)
Round Robin format with playoffs
Online stats & standings through Defender Game Center
Live streaming available on Black Bear TV
Championship awards for division winners

Why not turn your next tournament into a weekend down the shore?

The New Jersey Spring Thaw returns May 15–17, 2026, bringing teams together for a great weekend of competitive hockey just minutes from the Jersey Shore. Hosted at rinks including Jersey Shore Arena and Howell Ice Arena, this event combines strong competition with a fun destination for players and families.

Spend the day battling on the ice and the evenings enjoying everything the shore area has to offer — great restaurants, shopping, and a classic spring weekend atmosphere along the coast.

Tournament Highlights

8U–18U Divisions
Round Robin format with playoffs (minimum 3 games)
Live stats & standings via Defender Game Center
Live streaming available on Black Bear TV
Championship awards for division winners

Make it more than just a tournament — make it a team trip to the shore. Bring your players, families, and fans for a weekend of hockey and springtime fun on the Jersey Shore!