Hello, hockey player!
I don’t know who you are or where you’re from, but I do know what unites us: our shared love for hockey. And because of that, it feels like we already know each other.
Let me share a short story about the creation of the Tartu 3vs3 Hockey Cup, held in the beautiful and historic city of Tartu, Estonia.
My name is Martin Terna, and I am the main organizer of the tournament. I’m 30 years old, a former professional hockey player, and currently a children’s hockey coach, as well as an organizer of camps for children and tournaments for amateur hockey players. Assisting me in this endeavor is my father, Oleg Särki, who at 73 years old is the founder and owner of Kajakas, a children’s hockey club established in 1980 in Tartu.
Photo taken in 1986.
At the beginning of 2024, I had the idea of creating a one-day tournament where amateur players of the same hockey skill level could compete. By April and May 2024, we successfully organized four tournaments. In total, 20 teams—around 210 players—participated in these events.
Looking ahead to 2025, our goal is to host four tournaments, each featuring 8 teams and bringing together approximately 350 players. As always, our primary focus is to ensure that all teams competing have a similar level of hockey skill, creating an enjoyable and fair experience for everyone involved.
Why Short Hockey Tournaments?
- Short hockey is gaining popularity worldwide thanks to its dynamic nature—it features a high number of scoring opportunities, active involvement of all players on the ice, and frequent shots on goal.
- One of the key advantages of short hockey is the ability to organize tournaments for a large number of players in just one day.
- Additionally, many players look forward to trying their hand at short hockey at the end of the hockey season, making it an exciting and engaging experience for all skill levels.
Our tournaments location
Tournaments take place in Tartu, Estonia
- Our tournaments are held in the charming city of Tartu, which has been named the European Capital of Culture for 2024. With a population of 93,000, Tartu is known for its vibrant atmosphere and rich cultural heritage.
- The city offers a wide range of attractions, including numerous bars, restaurants, nightclubs, shopping centers, and entertainment venues. Tartu is also home to the Estonian National Museum and boasts a SPA and aquatic center for relaxation.
- Visitors will find a variety of hotels to suit all preferences, making it a perfect destination for a 1–2 day stay. Tartu is a beautiful and welcoming tourist city, offering something for everyone to enjoy.
A few facts about the ASTRI ARENA ice hockey rink.
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- ASTRI ARENA is located in the heart of the wonderful shopping center LŌUNAKESKUS, surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. Playing ice hockey in our arena is both convenient and comfortable, and spectators enjoy a warm and cozy environment.
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- The shopping center offers free parking, making it easy for everyone to attend the tournaments. Inside LŌUNAKESKUS, you’ll also find the SOFIA Hotel for a convenient stay.
- When you come to our tournament, you can expect plenty of spectators and fans, creating an exciting atmosphere. On weekends, LŌUNAKESKUS always has visitors eager to watch hockey.
- Before, after, or during the game breaks, you’ll have plenty of dining options. There are about 15 cafes and restaurants within the shopping center, offering a variety of food choices.
- If your family comes with you to the tournament, they will definitely not be bored. LŌUNAKESKUS has a large number of shops and entertainment places, such as a cinema, games room and amusement park.
- For your convenience, there’s also a FREE BUS service that will take your loved ones from LŌUNAKESKUS to the center of Tartu and back while you enjoy your favorite game.
