Fredericton Celebrates 50 Years of Ringette with Major Tournament

UPDATE: Fredericton kicks off the Ed Benoit Early Bird Ringette Tournament this week, celebrating an incredible 50 years of ringette in the city. This milestone event features a record 93 teams competing across seven ice surfaces in Fredericton and Oromocto, marking it as the city’s largest winter sporting event.

The tournament, which started earlier today, has attracted teams from across New Brunswick, as well as participants from Nova Scotia and, for the first time, Ontario. Last year, the competition generated an economic impact of nearly $850,000 for the local community, underscoring the sport’s significant growth and popularity.

Beth Leroux, one of the sport’s original pioneers, recalls when ringette first launched in Fredericton back in 1975. “We were a ragamuffin group with broken hockey sticks,” Leroux shared. The evolution of the sport has been remarkable, with advancements in equipment and the introduction of a shot clock, making the game faster and more dynamic.

“It’s amazing what’s happening,” Leroux exclaimed, reflecting on the sport’s expansion. “In the beginning, we had to travel far for competition. Now, we have young players under 10 years old competing, and most divisions include players under 19.”

The Ed Benoit tournament not only celebrates the sport but also highlights the community’s dedication to fostering teamwork and development among young girls. Louise Wilkins, another early player, underscores the importance of this legacy, as she prepares to watch her daughter coach and her great-granddaughters play. “It’s been a huge part of my life,” said Wilkins.

As the tournament progresses, the excitement is palpable among players and fans alike. The event serves as a testament to the dedication of parents, coaches, and players who have contributed to the sport’s growth over the decades. “I just can’t state how important it is for them to make those memories,” Leroux noted.

With the competition underway, all eyes are on the ice as Fredericton’s ringette community celebrates its rich history and looks forward to an even brighter future. Stay tuned for updates on the tournament’s outcomes and the continued evolution of this beloved sport.