FORT LAUDERDALE — Florida Panthers star forward Matthew Tkachuk will host the inaugural Matthew Tkachuk Cup, a free youth hockey tournament at the IcePlex over Labor Day Weekend, the team announced.
The Matthew Tkachuk Hockey Celebration will run Sept. 4-6, featuring a Boys’ AAA (Tier 1) and Girls’ AA (Tier 2) tournament, with all games free and open to the public, Florida Hockey Now reported. Baptist Health is the presenting sponsor.
“Growing the game of hockey in South Florida means a lot to me, as I’ve seen firsthand how much this community has embraced our sport,” Tkachuk said in a statement. “This weekend is about bringing the community together, giving kids and families the opportunity to experience hockey, have fun, and inspire the next generation.”
The Panthers will offer free on-ice and off-ice programming for families on Saturday, Sept. 5, including “Try Skating For Free” and “Try Hockey For Free” sessions along with public open skating from 12-4:30 p.m. The event will also feature live chats with Tkachuk and other personalities hosted by Panthers TV voice Steve Goldstein, along with giveaways and appearances by team mascots and the dance team.
The tournament arrives as the Panthers ramp up for the 2026-27 season. NHL free agency opened July 1, and the team’s rookie camp and tournament are scheduled for late August or early September. Panthers training camp opens in early to mid-September in Fort Lauderdale.
Florida opens its preseason Sept. 20 against the Carolina Hurricanes, with the 2026-27 regular season opener set for Sept. 29 at 5 p.m. at Carolina. The Panthers’ home opener is Oct. 10 at 6 p.m. against the Minnesota Wild.