SAVANNAH, GA. – Get ready to lace up your skates because Savannah’s beloved ice hockey tradition is making a grand return with more excitement than ever before. The much-anticipated Savannah Hockey Classic kicks off today at Enmarket Arena, marking a historic expansion to include six collegiate teams for the first time.

Since its inception in 1999, the tournament has been a staple in the local sports scene. This year, it has reached new heights by welcoming two additional powerhouse schools and introducing a fresh tournament format. The lineup now boasts teams from Georgia, Georgia Tech, Tennessee, South Carolina, Florida, and Florida State, creating the most competitive field in the event’s history.

Departing from its usual round-robin style, the tournament will now feature a dynamic setup with six thrilling games spread over two days. Hosted by the Savannah Ghost Pirates, the event promises an electrifying atmosphere at Enmarket Arena, offering college players a taste of big-game excitement they seldom experience.

Fans can enjoy the action by purchasing either single-day tickets or opting for a special discounted two-day pass to catch all the games. Organizers highlight that events like this play a significant role in boosting Savannah’s economy by filling hotels and driving business to downtown establishments.

“Our vision has always been to expand and engage more deeply with the community,” said John Thompson, Executive Vice President for Zawyer Sports. “This is just the beginning, a stepping stone towards something much larger—the tip of the iceberg.”

The action starts Friday afternoon with three matchups, followed by three more games Saturday, including the championship game at 5 p.m. Tickets are general admission with prices currently ranging from about $89 to $149.

For organizers, this weekend is about more than who lifts the trophy. Showcasing college hockey in a packed arena helps grow interest in the sport locally – especially for kids seeing the game at this level for the first time. It’s one reason this tradition has lasted nearly three decades.