Ryker Ferguson, a fourth-grader at Shaler Area Elementary, is a dedicated hockey player, lacing up his skates with the local youth team the Pittsburgh Penguins Elite. Ryker recently qualified to compete with the Pennsylvania Brick team in Edmonton, Alberta over the 4th of July. Earning a spot to compete in this group is a significant achievement. Toby Nehnevajsa, Coach of the Pittsburgh Penguins Elite, explains, “Ryker went through three years of tryouts and was picked to be on the team out of the thousands of kids in our market.”

The Brick Tournament is the most prestigious event for hockey players at the 10 & under age-level. Select teams from all over the North American continent attend this renowned summer tournament. The Brick offers many young promising hockey players and parents their first opportunity to compete in an elite international environment. Team Pennsylvania will be made up of the top players from the state of Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia and is one of only 14 teams able to compete with players from around the world.