First Meagan Byers Memorial Tournament features 35 teams

MOUNT FOREST – The first annual Meagan Byers Memorial Tournament was held Dec. 9 to 11, with 36 girls’ hockey teams competing in age categories from U9 to U15.

A dedicated volunteer, mentor and coach to young girls in the community, Meagan Byers, who grew up playing hockey and ball in Mount Forest and Durham, died in an automobile accident on Dec. 6, 2021 at the age of 22.

“Meagan was a wonderful person who took every opportunity to give back to her community. She inspired young girls to be the best they could be and is truly missed in our community,” organizers state. 

The tournament was staged by a group of individuals who coached with Meagan and the Mount Forest Minor Hockey Association (MFMHA).

With more than 472 players participating, games were held at arenas in Mount Forest, Harriston and Palmerston.

Mount Forest Rams house league teams won gold in the U11 and U13 divisions and the Rams U15B squad also won gold. The U15B Rams won silver.

Members of Meagan’s family were in attendance and helped select player of the game awards during the semi-final and championship games.

MFMHA officials thanked organizers, volunteers, players and their families, coaches and participating teams, and the Byers family for their part in “a very successful tournament.”