North Dakota Girls State Hockey Tournaments In Williston

Hundreds of girls hockey players and their families are expected to travel to Williston next week as the city hosts two North Dakota youth state hockey tournaments.

The Williston Basin Skating Club will host the North Dakota Girls State Hockey Tournaments March 13–15, bringing 24 teams to compete for state titles in the 12UB and 12UA/14U divisions.

Games will be played at two facilities in Williston: the Pete Conlin Rink inside the Raymond Family Community Center and the Agri Sports Complex. Nearly 40 games are scheduled over the three-day tournament.

The first games are set to begin at 9 a.m. Friday at the Agri Sports Complex, with matchups continuing throughout the weekend at both rinks.

Tournament organizers also plan to hold an opening ceremony at 7 p.m. Friday at the Agri Sports Complex, where participating teams, players and coaches will be introduced. The event is open to the public.

Organizers say the weekend will highlight the continued growth of girls hockey across the state while providing a competitive environment for young athletes.

“This weekend is about these athletes. There are exciting things happening across the state in girl’s hockey and we can’t wait for that to be showcased at this level in Williston,” said Alissa Renner, a 12UB assistant coach.

Renner said both Williston teams competing in the tournament have worked hard throughout the season and are looking forward to the opportunity to play at the state level.

“Both of our teams [12UB and 12UA/14U] have worked hard this season and we’re excited to see what they can do at state,” she said.

In addition to the games, organizers say fans attending the tournament can expect food vendors, merchandise booths and other activities at both rinks. Most vendors and concessions will be located at the Agri Sports Complex, which serves as the home rink for the Williston Flyers.

Planning committee member Kayla McKeil said volunteers have worked for months to prepare the event and create a welcoming atmosphere for visiting teams and families.

“We’ve worked hard to put together a weekend that everyone will enjoy,” McKeil said. “There will be food and merchandise vendors and a silent auction with over 30 items, and growing, up for bid.”

McKeil also noted that the tournament falls during spring break for many local students, creating an opportunity for families to attend games and support youth hockey.

“With Williston schools being on Spring Break, this could be a great opportunity to get the kids out of the house and maybe even inspire the next generation of Flyer and Coyote hockey players,” she said.

Organizers say hundreds of players, coaches and spectators are expected to attend, bringing an influx of visitors to the city for the weekend tournament.

Daily gate admission is $5 for students and $15 for adults. Tournament passes are available for $10 for students and $20 for adults.