Founders Cup

The Viroqua Community Arena is proud to host the 2nd Annual Founders Tournament, a special event honoring an individual who has made a lasting impact on the Viroqua Area Hockey Association (VAHA).

For 2026, we are honored to recognize Fred Dick for his pivotal contributions to the rink, the association, and the growth of youth hockey in our community.

The tournament features Men’s and Women’s divisions and is open to players 18+. Games will run March 23–27.

Join us for Championship Night on Friday, March 27, featuring beer, raffles, tip boards, and rink burgers, as we celebrate great hockey and raise funds to support VAHA. There is no cost to admission for spectators!

Registration is $50 for the Men’s Division and $25 for the Women’s Division. Goalies play free.

To ensure strong ice time for all participants, we are targeting a maximum of 15 skaters per team. If the tournament reaches capacity, roster spots will be prioritized in the following order:

1. VAHA-affiliated players (alumni and coaches)
2. First come, first served based on registration time

If you register but the tournament fills and you are unable to participate due to capacity limits, you will receive a full refund.

The registration deadline is March 13th.

Q: How are teams balanced?

We put in effort to balance teams both in terms of numbers and skill level. We ask that you self-rate yourself during registration to help us with this process.

Q: I'm not sure how I should rate myself, can you provide more guidance?

Absolutely!

1 — Beginner

• New to hockey or just learning the basics

• Still getting comfortable stopping, turning, and positioning

• Often focused on “where do I go?” more than making plays

Typical background: less than ~1 year of hockey

2 — Novice

• Can stop and turn reliably, but quick transitions are tough

• Can receive/pass the puck, but under pressure it’s inconsistent

• Learning positioning and team play (breakouts, coverage, etc.)

Typical background: ~1–5 years of experience or occasional hockey

3 — Intermediate

• Comfortable skating at game speed (for adult rec hockey)

• Can carry the puck, make passes, and shoot with some control

• Understands basic positioning and can play both ends of the ice

• Usually makes the right play when given time and space

Typical background: 5+ years of hockey, regular rec league player

4 — Advanced

• Strong skater: quick acceleration, tight turns, good edge control

• Makes plays at speed and under pressure

• Reads the game well and can take over shifts at times

Typical background: played organized hockey through high school (or equivalent) and still plays at a high level

5 — Elite

• High-level skating, puck protection, and decision-making at full speed

• Strong hockey IQ and positioning — makes everyone around you better

Typical background: juniors, college (ACHA/NCAA), high-level club, pro/semi-pro, or comparable competitive experience

Q: What is required for equipment?

Full gear is strongly recommended though some players may choose without shoulder pads.

Q: Is it OK to invite people who are not affiliated with VAHA to come and watch?

100%. We love bringing people to our rink to experience hockey. The more the merrier and admission is free!