The largest annual youth hockey tournament, the Bell Capital Cup, started in Ottawa, bringing together the Canadian hockey world for nearly a quarter of a century.

This tournament has been recognized multiple times by the Guinness Book of World Records as the 'Largest Hockey Tournament in the World.' In 2019, it set a new Guinness World Record with over 200 teams and 5,340 players participating.

This year’s 23rd international tournament is particularly special. It includes over 200 teams from different continents – North America, Asia, and Europe – competing in U10-U13 leagues and A, AA, and AAA competitive divisions.

Additionally, the tournament will feature games involving athletes with visual impairments (Canadian Blind Hockey), para-athletes (sledge hockey), and athletes with special needs (adaptive hockey).

This year, the Ukrainian youth hockey team, U13 Ukraine Team, is participating in the competition.

Today, ahead of the tournament's start, a special event took place – the championship opening ceremony and a friendly match between the U13 Ukraine Team and Ottawa Myers.

Ukraine’s Ambassador, Yuliya Kovaliv, together with His Excellency Whit Fraser, Viceregal consort of Canada, had the honor of participating in the ceremonial puck drop between the two teams.

Hundreds of Ukrainians came to the main hockey arena of Canada’s capital to support the young hockey players. Ukrainian fans warmly cheered for our team, chanting "Glory to Ukraine! Glory to the Heroes!" from the stands.

Ahead, the Ukrainian hockey players will play several more games as part of the tournament in Ottawa, Montreal, and Quebec.

We wish our young athletes continued successful matches and bright victories!