The defending national champion Red Deer Optimist Rebels Chiefs open play in the 35th annual Mac’s AAA Midget Hockey Tournament Dec. 26th.
The Rebels meet then Moose Jaw Generals at 10 a.m. at Father David Bauer Arena.
The Rebels also clash with the Calgary Royals at 11:45 a.m. on Dec. 27 and the Lloydminster Bobcats at 8 a.m. on Dec. 28 at Father David Bauer. They finish pool play Dec. 30 at 5:15 p.m. at Max Bell Arena 1 against Pirati Chomutov of the Czech Republic.
Overall there are 25 boys’ teams and 15 girls’ squads.