The Liberty Bell Games, a premier summer hockey showcase annually stationed at the Red Bank Armory, has postponed its 2020 edition until this winter.
Due to social distancing mandates induced by COVID-19 concerns, the 2020 event for youth skaters ages 14 to 17 will occur on consecutive December weekends, wrapping around the Christmas holiday.
- December 21-22 – Future Prospects (2006 birth year)
- December 27-29 – Prospects (2003-2005 birth years)
“At this time there is a moratorium in place until August 31, which precludes college, junior and Pro scouts from attending our event,” Liberty Bell Games President and CEO Lew Mongelluzo said in a video address. “Based on federal, state and CDC guidelines, we were not permitted to hold the Liberty Bell Games in June.”
Founded in 2009, the event features top youth players ages 14 to 17 from New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York and other surrounding communities.
Since its launch, the Liberty Bell Games has had more than 150 players move on to play at the NCAA level, and 28 skaters earn NHL draft selections.
The event boasts a roster that includes such notable alumni as Johnny Gaudreau (Calgary Flames), Tony DeAngelo (New York Rangers), Kevin Labanc (San Jose Sharks) and Anthony Stolarz (Philadelphia Flyers).
“These are difficult times for many families. We know COVID-19 is real and know how it has affected our country, community and world,” Mongelluzo added. “Looking back over last months and what we will have to endure has been unprecedented, certainly in my lifetime. We’re ready to go, we know the players are hungry to get on the ice, and we completely understand. This (delay) is very difficult for us and the players.”
