The sheer size of the GTHL community  was reflected in larger than life celebrations at Puck Drop Weekend. The sixth annual rendition of the event saw nearly 200 GTHL teams kick-off off their 2016-17 campaigns with 10,000 of their closest friends at Canlan Ice Sports at York University.

Not to be outdone by the continuous on-ice action, attendees were also kept busy by a number interactive activities scattered throughout the six-pad arena.

Guests were able to take hockey battles into the digital world with Sony Playstation, enter for a chance to win tickets to the World Juniors with Hockey Canada, and check out hockey hardware from the Hockey Hall of Fame. Representatives from the Holland Bloorview were also on hand to provide concussion resources to players and parents.

Before hitting the ice, players took the time to strike a pose at the GTHL photobooth for a chance to walk away with a free “I Play in the G” tee.

On the ice, the weekend opened with the East Ender Ticats Minor Atom A squad taking a 5-1 win over the Toronto Shamrocks. To wrap things up on Sunday evening, the Bantam A Markham Islanders and Toronto Shamrocks left the ice undecided in a 2-2 draw.

Weekend MVPs

While there is no shortage of on-ice talent to recognize, the MVPs of Puck Drop Weekend were all of the hockey parents (and grandparents) who took the time to cheer on their favourite players.

The Rising Star
In its first appearance at Puck Drop Weekend, the GTHL photobooth saw no shortage of snaps and silly faces.

Click here for more photos from Puck Drop Weekend 2016-17.