TIMMINS, ON – For the first time, the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge will return to a previous host city when Timmins plays host to the 2010 tournament from to . Timmins first hosted the tournament in 2000, when Russia – led by future first-overall NHL pick Ilya Kovalchuk – won gold.

In addition to Timmins, the surrounding communities of Cochrane, Iroquois Falls, Kapuskasing, Kirkland Lake and New Liskeard will also play host to games during the tournament.

“We’re excited to be the first community to welcome back the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge,” said Kris Kullas, chair of the host organizing committee. “Timmins and the partner venues have a love for our nation’s game, and we look forward to hosting teams from around the world later this year.”

The 2010 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge will include 10 teams – five regional Canadian entries (Pacific, West, Ontario, Quebec, Atlantic) – and five international teams. The first three international teams have been confirmed – Finland, Russia and the United States. The remaining two teams will be announced at a later date.

The schedule for the tournament will also be announced in the near future.

Tournament packages are available in Timmins, as well as the five partner communities. Tickets are available at all venues, beginning Saturday, March 28.

Timmins – 16 games – $240

Iroquois Falls – 4 games – $60

Cochrane, Kapuskasing, Kirkland Lake, New Liskeard – 3 games each – $45

Corporate sponsorship opportunities for the 2010 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge are now available. Opportunities range from $1,000 to $10,000. For more information, interested businesses should contact Kris Kullas at (705) 360-8715 or [email protected].

The 2010 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge will mark the 18th tournament since it debuted as the Quebec Esso Cup in 1986. Ontario has won a tournament-high seven gold medals, including back-to-back gold in 2008 in London, ON and 2009 in Alberni Valley, BC.