Every winter, hockey enthusiasts from all over the country gather in Meredith, New Hampshire, to participate in the Pond Hockey Classic, an outdoor tournament that is considered the epitome of the sport's purest form. However, this beloved tradition is now under threat due to climate change.
The Pond Hockey Classic attracts around 2,200 players who come together for three days of intense competition on a frozen lake surrounded by picturesque snow-covered hills. While the tournament is highly competitive, many players and spectators also value the social experience it offers. One team, aptly named 'Nog,' even shares eggnog with their opponents after each game.
But the effects of climate change are becoming increasingly apparent, impacting this cherished winter event. This year, the tournament had to be relocated from Lake Winnipesaukee to the smaller Lake Waukewan due to insufficient ice thickness. Meanwhile, a sister tournament on Lake Champlain in Vermont had to be canceled due to soaring temperatures.
The threat of climate change extends beyond just winter traditions on frozen lakes. In Saranac Lake, New York, a magnificent ice palace constructed from thousands of blocks of ice had to be closed during the winter carnival due to safety concerns as it melted away. Tragically, an 88-year-old man in Maine lost his life when an all-terrain vehicle he was on broke through the ice after a fishing trip.
The impact of climate change is also evident in the Midwest, where there has been a decrease in both the extent and duration of ice cover on the Great Lakes. Smaller lakes have experienced a loss of approximately 20 days of annual ice cover over the past century. Ted Ozerksy, an associate professor at the University of Minnesota Duluth, warns that these rapid changes could have unknown consequences for wildlife and ecosystems.
Last year was the warmest ever recorded on Earth, and the current El Niño weather pattern has brought even milder winters to some regions. These climatic shifts pose a significant challenge to the Pond Hockey Classic and similar events that rely on frozen lakes.
Despite these challenges, players traveled from all over the country to participate in this year's tournament, which began on February 2nd. The games were played four per side, with no goalies and a range of skill levels, from beginners to former professionals. A total of 275 teams competed on 26 rinks, supervised by skaters armed with snow shovels and surrounded by small, portable barriers. There were no referees, and players had to aim the puck at the two tiny goals. Spectators, including a family wearing crampons for traction, enjoyed the day-long matches.
Kelly Kittredge, a former college player and member of the 'Boston Beauties' team, described the tournament as the most enjoyable weekend of the year, highlighting the warm camaraderie among participants. As temperatures rose and turned the ice to slush on the first day of competition, some players had to trade their skates for boots. However, cooler temperatures in the following days allowed for faster action on the ice.
Scott Crowder, the founder of the Pond Hockey Classic, believes that there is nothing quite like playing hockey outdoors in a picturesque setting. He describes the tournament as nostalgic, reminding older generations of their childhood experiences playing on local ponds and parks. Crowder acknowledges that the future of the event is uncertain, as they cannot control the weather, but he emphasizes the overwhelming support from players, spectators, local businesses, and the township of Meredith.
Elizabeth Burakowski, a research assistant professor at the University of New Hampshire, points out that New England is experiencing significant winter warming, disrupting traditional winter activities. She highlights the changes she has witnessed in her home state of New Hampshire, where lakes that were typically fully frozen by January are now lacking ice. Snowmobiling and ice fishing, once popular winter pastimes, are becoming less reliable due to inconsistent weather conditions.
Despite the uncertain future, players like Pete Kibble, who has participated in the Pond Hockey Classic every year since its inception 15 years ago, remain steadfast in their commitment. Kibble, now part of an over-50s age group team playfully named 'Eggs,' treasures the opportunity to relive his childhood memories of playing hockey outdoors and cherishes the camaraderie that comes with it.
As climate change continues to impact winter traditions, the Pond Hockey Classic stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of hockey enthusiasts. While the unpredictable weather poses a significant challenge, the unwavering support from players and local communities may help sustain this beloved event for years to come.
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