Snoopy's Senior World Hockey Tournament - A Summer Hockey Tradition

The History of Snoopy's Senior World Hockey Tournament

For over 30 years, hockey fans have gathered in Santa Rosa, California each summer for an epic tournament featuring teams of hockey legends over the age of 50. This beloved event is known as the Snoopy's Senior World Hockey Tournament. It offers fans a chance to see their hockey heroes from years past lace up their skates and take to the ice once more.

The tournament was founded in 1989 by Peanuts creator Charles M. Schulz, a longtime sports fan and hockey enthusiast. Schulz was a Santa Rosa resident and would often attend games of the local junior hockey team, the Rohnert Park Rhinos. As a tribute to his beloved Peanuts character Snoopy, Schulz established the Senior World Tournament as a way to celebrate the sport he loved.

The first event in 1989 featured 8 teams and was held at the Redwood Empire Ice Arena. It drew hundreds of spectators excited to watch NHL veterans playing the game they excelled at in their youth. While initially intended as a one-time event, the tournament's popularity led Schulz to make it an annual tradition.

Notable Tournament Moments

Over the years, the Snoopy's Senior World Hockey Tournament has featured many memorable games and outstanding performances by hockey legends. Some highlights include:

• In 1991, hockey great Gordie Howe took to the ice at age 63 along with his sons Mark and Marty, making the Howes the first father-son trio to compete together.
• The 1996 tournament saw the first women's game when USA hockey trailblazer Cammi Granato led her team to victory.
• In 2004, 73-year-old Maurice "Rocket" Richard delighted fans by scoring a hat trick.
• The fastest goal was scored in just 5 seconds by Mike Rogers in 2001.

In addition to hockey action, the tournament has also featured special tributes to past legends. Bobby Orr, Wayne Gretzky, and Mario Lemieux have all been honored over the years at the event.

Tournament Format and Festivities

The Snoopy's Senior World Hockey Tournament takes places each July at the Redwood Empire Ice Arena. It features 10 men's teams divided into two divisions, along with a women's division.

Teams compete in a round robin format over the span of several days. The top teams in each division advance to the playoff rounds to compete for the championship title. Games consist of three 15-minute periods played on the Olympic-sized ice rink.

Festivities around the tournament include player autograph sessions, skills competitions, and ceremonies honoring past hockey greats. Fans also have the chance to meet Snoopy himself when he makes appearances around the arena!

The family-friendly atmosphere and chance to see legends back in action make the Senior World Tournament a one-of-a-kind summer hockey celebration.

Who Plays in the Tournament?

The Snoopy's Senior World Tournament brings together hockey legends who still love the thrill of competition. To qualify, players must be at least 50 years old. Most are former NHL players, but the tournament also attracts stars from European professional leagues and the Olympics.

Some of the big name players who have hit the ice over the years include:

• Bobby Hull - Hall of Famer nicknamed "The Golden Jet" who starred for the Chicago Blackhawks.
• Mark Messier - Six-time Stanley Cup winner considered one of the greatest leaders in NHL history.
• Mike Bossy - Elite goal scorer who won four straight Stanley Cups with the New York Islanders dynasty.
• Cammi Granato - Pioneering women's player and Olympic gold medalist for Team USA.
• Jari Kurri - Legendary Finnish winger who lit up scoreboards alongside Wayne Gretzky in Edmonton.
• Martin Brodeur - Hockey's all-time winningest goaltender and three-time Stanley Cup champion.

In all, over 600 former pro players from 14 countries have taken part in the tournament over the years. Fans never know which heroes from years past will make a return to the ice each summer!

Community Support for the Tournament

The Snoopy's Senior World Hockey Tournament has become a popular summer tradition drawing fans from across Sonoma County and beyond. Tournament organizers work closely with local businesses and organizations to promote the event and make it an accessible community experience.

Hotels in Santa Rosa offer special hockey fan discounts and packages during tournament week. Restaurants and bars host viewing parties for games. Local youth hockey associations run youth skills clinics featuring tournament players. It's a week-long hockey celebration!

Tournament proceeds are donated to a variety of local charities focused on youth sports and recreation. Over $675,000 has been raised for community organizations since 1989 thanks to the Senior World Tournament.

For locals who fondly remember Charles Schulz's Peanuts comic strips, the tournament is a meaningful way to honor his creative legacy. By combining Schulz's passion for hockey with his beloved Snoopy character, the event encapsulates the best of Santa Rosa.

Planning Your Visit to the Tournament

Planning a visit to Santa Rosa for the Snoopy's Senior World Hockey Tournament is easy and enjoyable. Here are some tips to help you enjoy tournament week:

Get Tickets

Tickets can be purchased at the Redwood Empire Ice Arena box office leading up to and during the tournament week. Prices are family-friendly. Multi-day and week-long passes are available. Golf tournament and banquet dinner tickets can also be purchased.

Book Local Accommodations

Hotels often sell out months in advance, so book your room early. Popular options include the Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Country and Flamingo Conference Resort & Spa. RVs and campers can stay at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds.

Explore Santa Rosa

When not at the arena, check out local attractions like the Charles M. Schulz Museum, Luther Burbank Home & Gardens, and Russian River Brewing Company. Stroll through downtown Santa Rosa's shops and restaurants.

Follow the Action

Use the tournament's mobile app and social media feeds to track schedules, scores, and player news. Visit the merchandise booth at the arena for collectible souvenirs.

Catch a Game Night Energy

Grab dinner downtown before games at hotspots like Stark's Steakhouse or Parish Cafe. Hang out with other fans at nightspots like Belly Left Coast Kitchen + Bar. Be part of the hockey night atmosphere!

With its lively hockey action and Northern California setting, the Snoopy's Senior World Hockey Tournament promises visitors an unforgettable summer getaway. Join in the festivities during this Santa Rosa tradition!

FAQs

How can I get tickets to the tournament?

Tickets can be purchased at the Redwood Empire Ice Arena box office leading up to and during tournament week. You can also buy tickets online through the tournament's website.

What players can I expect to see?

The tournament attracts hockey legends over age 50 like Bobby Hull, Cammi Granato, Martin Brodeur, and many other NHL, Olympic, and international stars.

What else happens during tournament week besides games?

There are special events like skills competitions, autograph sessions with players, ceremonies honoring past legends, and appearances by Snoopy!

Where do players and fans typically stay during the tournament?

Popular hotel options include the Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Country and Flamingo Conference Resort & Spa. RV camping is available at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds.

What is there to do in the area when not at games?

Santa Rosa offers lots of attractions like the Charles M. Schulz Museum, Luther Burbank Home & Gardens, downtown shopping and dining, and nearby Sonoma Valley wineries.