Belarusian capital for the seventh time hosts a big sports show, vivid and memorable celebration for players and fans, a unique action for the hockey world. It is a Christmas International Tournament of Hockey Amateurs for the Prize of the President of the Republic of Belarus. Minsk, paying tribute to the significant amateur hockey event and to Christmas tradition, welcomes and opens its doors for those who is devoted to its favorite game, for those who loves, enjoys and respects hockey.

In early January good friends from eight countries meet each other in Minsk. Among them — the world hockey legends, who were the idols of millions of fans, and hockey amateurs, for whom Christmas International Tournament - the most important and vital start in their careers. They will meet in honest and uncompromising struggle to define the best, to express themselves, to share emotions with stands, annually fully filled, to see Belarus and Belarusians, who becomes the truly family during the tournament for many of the participants.

In the 7th Christmas International Tournament we will see teams of Belarus, Finland, Germany, Austria, Russia, Slovakia, Switzerland and Ukraine. Each of these ice hockey teams has already participated in these competitions, and has plunged into the atmosphere of the sports festival and passion. There is no doubt, that teams have set themselves the highest goals and have done the serious preparation for this responsible start.

Formula of the tournament has not changed. At the preliminary stage, the teams play in two quartets. Second placed teams meet in the bronze match, and the winners compete in the final. Remains unchanged the need to include in team roster skilful players, because for each penalty team is punished with a penalty shot, according to the tournament rules. Successful disposal of these scoring chances offers team a good advantage in the January battles in Minsk.

Again, as it was in 2010, the tournament will involve three ice rinks. One of quartets holds matches at the Sports Palace, where the opening ceremony of the competition will take place. Another four teams will be based at the Minsk Ice Palace. The bronze medal game, the final and closing ceremony will pass on Minsk-Arena.

Hosts of the tournament — the hockey team of the President of the Republic of Belarus traditionally is one of the favorites. In the six years of competition history Belarusians five times were holding the trophy. Only once the gold was won by one of its major opponents — Russia hockey team. It is no secret that it is incredibly difficult to stay on victorious positions. Especially, when teams improve their skills and strength, as well as grows the audience interest. That is why the team of the President of the Republic of Belarus is preparing thoroughly to the main start of the season.

It is worth noting that in the six year history of the tournament the head of state did not miss a single game as a hockey player. Hosts do not only strive to win in every with eye catching combinations, tricky shots and a great number of goals. Other participants are also doing the same. So, every game becomes the real ice hockey show with lots of goals, that is definitely interesting for all.

Belarusian fans deserve the best words of gratitude. Minsk residents and guests love hockey and they welcome every player with generous applause. Participants repeatedly state that it is thanks to the sincere and emotional support of the stands tournament gets its unique atmosphere.

In addition to positive emotions, the tournament offers a large number of awards and prizes. Organizers of the competition (Ministry of Sports and Tourism of the Republic of Belarus, Ice Hockey Federation of Belarus, Minsk City Executive Committee and the Republican State and Public Association “President`s Sports Club”) are doing everything to ensure that everybody will leave Belarus only with pleasant memories.

14 memorable tournament games are ahead. Outcome of the event will be on 7th January. On this day the hockey players of one of the teams will be awarded with the gold medals with magnificent number “Seven”. And their captain supported with a standing ovation of the stands will raise the main trophy of the Christmas International Tournament of Hockey Amateurs for the Prize of the President of the Republic of Belarus.

Press office of the
Republican State and Public
Association "President`s Sports Club"