Speak loudly and carry a mini stick.
OK, that’s not quite how the old saying goes, but on Dec. 18 it will aptly describe hundreds of Thunder Bay kids taking part in the fourth annual Epic Mini Sticks Tournament in the Port Arthur Collegiate Institute gymnasium.
Staged in support of several charities, organizer Tom Warden said about 450 wannabe hockey stars took part last year, and for good reason.
"It’s a great, fun day for them," Warden said. "Money goes to minor hockey and this year the Special Olympics, and the Boys and Girls Club.
"It’s an event that we tried as a lark to see whether or not it would work. Our committee, every year, we’re surprised and amazed at how big it gets and how great it is. It’s a must-do for anybody between seven and 12."
The tournament will feature up to 100 teams of four, competing for a variety of prizes. The winning team from each age group receives a prize pack valued at $60 from Play It Again Sports. Warden said there are a bunch of "cool" NHL-themed prizes up for grabs as well.
Albert Aiello, executive director of the Boys and Girls Club, said the tournament just keeps growing and growing.
"We expect this year’s mini stick tournament to be bigger and better," he said.
To register, visit www.ministicks.ca or sign up at Play It Again Sports.