Hockey teams from across the Pontiac and beyond gathered at the Fort Coulonge Centre de Loisirs des Draveurs arena over the weekend for the annual Coupe Pontiac three-on-three hockey tournament.

The three-day event, organized by Danick Boisvert, is an annual fundraiser for the arena. This year there were 16 teams, down from last year’s 25 teams, six in the A Division and 10 in the B Division.

The Danford Lakers took a decisive 8-1 win in the finals for the A Division against Pontiac opponents the Litchfield Birdies, claiming the tournament title for a second consecutive year.

Cole Peck was on the team both times they won. He explained that because they won the tournament last year, they got to play again this year without a registration fee.

Peck said that playing three-on-three means that there are more opportunities for odd-man rushes and the continuous style of play makes it a much quicker game.

“The quality of players is really good,” Peck said. “Lots of high scoring and lots of fun.”

He added that the best part is getting to give back to local arenas.

“I think that’s why we keep coming back,” Peck said. “We’re not only playing against good players, but we’re also supporting local community events.”

Boisvert echoed the sentiment.

“It’s a big event for Fort Coulonge every year,” Boisvert said. “It’s good for the community, it’s good for everybody.”

Boisvert said that three-on-three hockey is getting more popular, but it’s still uncommon.

“It’s something different that the guys love because there’s more time and space on the ice,” he said.

The fun didn’t stop when players stepped off the ice. Friday and Saturday nights also featured live music from DJs Martin Leguerrier and Paul Leblanc.