On Aug. 8, the Pinehurst Hockey Association (PHA) held its inaugural hockey tournament, bringing six teams together for an evening of roller hockey in Pinehurst at the Rassie Wicker Rink. The tournament drew teams from surrounding counties, with around 200 players, family members, and spectators attending, according to PHA in a press release.
The tournament ultimately came down to the Green Machines and the Sandhills Snipers. The Snipers entered their semifinal matchup undefeated, but the Green Machines handed them their first loss in convincing fashion, winning 6–1. Because of the double-elimination format, the Snipers remained alive and earned another opportunity to face the Green Machines in the championship.
The rematch was a completely different game. After being separated by six goals in their first meeting, the Snipers rallied and battled the Green Machines to a 3–3 tie at the end of regulation. The championship went to overtime and ultimately a shootout, where the Sandhills Snipers completed their comeback and captured the tournament championship.
The Snipers were presented with the championship trophy, capping off the Pinehurst Hockey Association’s first double-elimination tournament with a dramatic finish.
The PHA is set to launch its third regular season on Sept. 5. Interested players can join the waitlist at https://sites.google.com/view/pinehursthockeyassociation or follow for updates on their social media.
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Contributed article/photo.
