POTSDAM -- Potsdam Junior Hockey Association is hosting a tournament Feb. 2 to 4 at the three main ice arenas in Potsdam, Sandstone Arena at Pine Street, Maxcy Hall Ice Arena at SUNY Potsdam, and Clarkson University’s Cheel Arena.

PJHA is asking for in-kind contributions such as raffle prizes, supplies, and food, as well as monetary donations in order to cover the costs of the tournament, which will allow all of the proceeds to go toward maintaining or reducing the cost of registration for all players next season.

The three-day event will feature 15 teams across five divisions including squirts, peewees, and bantams.

PJHA President Matt Draper says in an announcement that the association is organizing the tournament “to solidify the PJHA membership as well as fund raise for 2018-2019. As with all things, cost of registration, ice time, referees, and supplies are rising and PJHA is dedicated to keeping registration costs within reach of any child in Potsdam that wants to play hockey.”

PJHA’s $50,000 annual budget is funded by registration fees to cover the cost of ice and referees, with all other activities supported 100 percent through volunteers -- board members, coaches, snack bar attendants, timekeepers, and so on.

The association is hoping to raise 10 to 15 percent of the total operating budget through this tournament, “a sum we can then use to reduce registration fees and buy needed supplies such as jerseys,” Draper said.

“We currently serve over 140 local children through our programs, giving them the opportunity to learn teamwork and develop both skills and confidence. This tournament aims to bring in over 200 players with their families to our community who will stay in Potsdam, eat at Potsdam restaurants, and shop at Potsdam stores,” Draper said.

He said the entire PJHA is involved to put the tournament on. “From beginners through bantams, all players and families will be involved, volunteering their time and expertise to highlight the Potsdam community.”

“Any help you can provide would be greatly appreciated and directly impact the experience of our players,” Draper said.

Donors will be recognized during the tournament, and as an IRS-approved 501(c)(3) organization, donation receipts can be provided for tax purposes.