On January 29th, the 2005 Pittsburgh Penguins Elite team enjoyed a practice at PPG Paints Arena. The next night, the team gathered at the Pittsburgh Penguins game and were shown on the scoreboard in front of a sold out crowd. All of this excitement is due to the fact that the team will be heading to the annual Quebec International Pee-Wee Tournament in Quebec City.

The Quebec International Pee-Wee Tournament is known as one of the most prestigious minor hockey tournaments in the world for Pee-Wee aged players (11 and 12 year olds). The tournament spans 12 days in February and dates all the way back to 1960. Some of the greatest names in hockey have played in this tournament including Penguins owner and Hall of Famer Mario Lemieux as well as Wayne Gretzky, Guy Lafleur, Marcel Dionne and many more.

The members of the team will have the opportunity to play against Pee-Wee teams from around the world but will also enjoy the cultural experience. The tournament is held during Quebec’s Winter Carnival and players will be staying with local families. Experiencing Canadian culture will be another highlight of attending this tournament.

The Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation has contributed to making this trip a possibility for the Penguins Elite kids. “We’re very excited; it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity” said Cameron Herr, a grateful member of the 2005 team.

The Penguins Elite team will have their first game of the tournament on Saturday, February 10th against the North Shore Winter Club, a team from North Vancouver, British Columbia. We all wish the Penguins Elite team the best of luck as they head north of the border!

Follow this link to watch the video of the 2005 Penguins Elite kids receiving their new gear for the tournament!: https://www.nhl.com/penguins/video/2005-penguins-elite-receives-gear/t-277437428/c-57117503