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“We are very pleased to be bringing State Wars back to the Darien Sportsplex,” said National Director Tim McManus. “We signed an agreement with the city to bring in $20,000 of additional air conditioning into the facility for the event and along with some interior renovations made, and we knew that Darien would be the perfect location for 2013. The ability to have 3 NHL-sized rinks under one roof – all with full size locker rooms – Is very rare and to have such a facility in such an affordable location as the Windy City made this an easy choice.”
“Anytime you can have 3 full size rinks rocking under one roof, you are going to have an insane atmosphere, and that is what we look for at State Wars,” added National Director Greg Thompson. “Illinois is a perfect location for families to get to; many can drive, and those that must fly, can do so affordably.”
Illinois State Director Pete Messina added, “Having State Wars in Illinois is so big for the sport in this area and I expect huge numbers this summer from our local players. The Darien Sportsplex is such a terrific venue for State Wars; I recall some of the largest crowds I have ever seen at the event in 2010. I am pumped!”
The State of Illinois has always been a great home to State Wars, as this will be the 5th time in nine years that it will be held in the Prairie State. Back in 2010, State Wars had its largest participation total of 267 teams playing at the Darien Sportsplex, only to be surpassed last summer in St. Peters.
“We expect our largest and most competitive event to state in 2013, we are coming off our best year ever and we plan on continuing that trend,” said Tim McManus. “State Wars has become THE tournament of the summer for many players and teams. Having the event in such an accessible area, where the cost to visit is very reasonable for families is so important in today’s world.”
Specific block dates for each division are available at www.statewarshockey.com.
Players Will Feel Like Pros Skating Here on NHL-Size Rinks
We know what the players want, BIG Floors and the chance to show off their speed and skill. Along with that, we want an incredible atmosphere for the players and fans to be a part of. We have ALL of that at the Darien Sportsplex and more. With only one way in and one way out of the facility, and all 3 rinks close to one another, the atmosphere in the building will be unbelievable. That is music to the ears of our sponsors and the players who love showing off their talent in front of large packed crowds. Two of the rinks are connected by an overhead balcony where fans can walk back and forth and watch both games from a bird’s-eye view.
Many Great Things to See and Do in Chicago Area
• Visit the Navy Pier
• Check out Wrigley Field, America's 2nd Oldest Ball Park
• Tour the Museum of Science and Industry
• Stroll Through Many Beautiful Parks
• Play at LEGOLAND in Schaumburg
• Visit the DuPage Children's Museum
• Listen to Some Incredible Blues Bands
• Take a Bite of Chicago Pizza and Some Other Great Food
• and plenty more...
TWO Major Airports in Chicago to Fly Into
The Chicago O’Hare and Midway Airports are Both Great Choices
It is always great to have choices in life and having the ability to choose between TWO major airports when flying to State Wars is a HUGE advantage this year. Both O’Hare Airport (ORD) and Midway Airport (MDW) are ideal for flying into, so you should research times and prices for both, as each service certain airlines more than the other. Midway is a bit closer at 16 miles away from the Sportsplex, as O’Hare is listed as 21 miles away.
Darien is an Easy Drive for Many Families
No Bag Fees or Car Rentals!
When choosing a location for this prestigious event there are many factors but the one we choose not to ignore is affordability and ease to get there. We purposely choose central locations that are either easily drivable or reasonable to fly to, hence the central location.
Darien is a great place to drive to for many families in many states. So pack up the SUV or minivan and get to State Wars! Oh, and if you do drive, make sure you dress up your vehicle and show your support for your home state or province!
REGISTER FOR YOUR STATE/PROVINCIAL TRYOUT
Registration Will Open January 1
Remember tryouts are RISK FREE, so there is no reason for anyone not to give it their best shot and have an opportunity to play in this awesome event. Any player who attends the full tryout and is not selected will receive a full refund of the tryout fee.
Each tryout is two-hours long and all players receive a State Wars Hockey tryout jersey.
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