Ronald’s House of Champions hockey tournament comes to town
- Ron Giofu
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read

A special hockey tournament came to the area over the weekend, all to benefit the Ronald McDonald House in Windsor.
Young hockey players were at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg and the Essex Centre Sports Complex last weekend, using both ice pads at both arenas for the Ronald’s House of Champions hockey tournament. Advanced Hockey Program owner Jeff Nantais said they help run the tournament, though pointed out it was founded by Matt Tatomir and Ashley Incitti, the latter two being an owner of McDonald’s franchises in the area and the other a manager.
Players were between the ages of 7-12.

“We have 83 teams this year,” said Nantais. “Some play house league, some play travel.”
There were boys teams, girls teams and teams mixed with boys and girls.
Hockey action was four-on-four and teams were comprised of eight to 10 players.
Funds raised go specifically to the Ronald McDonald House at Windsor Regional Hospital – Metropolitan Campus with Nantais stating it does well every year. The tournament raised approximately $60,000 in its first year, $80,000 in year two and is expected to clear $100,000 this year.
“It’s quite successful for a new tournament,” said Nantais.

Proceeds have helped the area’s Ronald McDonald House in many ways, with Nantais citing their ability to hire a full-time chef as one example.
“All of the local initiatives are really helping,” he said.
Nantais said numerous community partners have supported the tournament, including minor hockey associations in both Amherstburg and Essex as well as both municipalities.
“Lake Erie Minor Hockey blacked out the weekend so we can run this tournament,” said Nantais. “That’s pretty awesome.”
All volunteers, donors and sponsored were thanked, he added, noting there were approximately 15 volunteers in both arenas.
For more information, visit www.advancedhockeyprograms.com/rmhc-4on4-tournament or www.rmhccanada.ca/fundraisers/ronalds-house-of-champions-3rd-annual-hockey-tournament.
Ronald’s House of Champions hockey tournament comes to town
By Ron Giofu