International Pride Hockey Tournament Kicks Off in the Coachella Valley

The International Pride Hockey Tournament officially kicked off today at the Berger Iceplex and Acrisure Arena in the Coachella Valley. The event, which spans three days, brings together players from 105 cities across the United States and Canada. With games starting in the smaller Berger Iceplex before shifting to the main Acrisure Arena ice later today, this tournament is a unique opportunity for players to experience the big league arena, home of the Coachella Valley Firebirds.

Saturday's games will begin early, with the first puck drop at 7:30 AM and the last game scheduled to start at 6 PM, just ahead of the Firebirds’ game. Tournament participants enjoy free admission to Firebirds games. Co-founders of the tournament are proud of its growth, noting that it has expanded to include 16 teams this year, up from 10 in its inaugural year. The growth of both the tournament and hockey participation in the Valley has been significant, especially since the Firebirds' arrival and the opening of their arena. What began as a bold idea is now a thriving event.

In Firebirds news, the team is gearing up for a pivotal weekend. After a brief break, the Firebirds returned to Acrisure Arena for practice in preparation for their biggest matches of the season. The Calgary Wranglers, the division leaders, will be in town on Saturday night, followed by a matchup against the San Jose Barracuda on Sunday afternoon. The Firebirds are motivated by their previous successes against the Wranglers and the chance for payback against San Jose, who have bested them in a series of close games this season.

Lastly, day two of the Mary Nutter Classic is in full swing at Cathedral City, where the top-ten teams of Tennessee and UCLA are facing off in an exciting game that has already gone into extra innings. Attendees are reminded to plan ahead for parking and traffic around the stadium this weekend.

Stay tuned for more updates and highlights from all the action this weekend right here on NBC Palm Springs.