Pond Hockey on the Rock returns to Sudbury

The orange balls were out and the sticks were kept on the ice as Pond Hockey on the Rock returned to Sudbury.

All of this cold weather couldn't slow down hockey enthusiasts who came out for a weekend of fun.

"Our goalie played wonderfully, our team played beautifully and we'll just get pucks deep in the third," said Julia Williams, captain of the Pure Country 91.7 team.

"You know, we're going to every game with a clear mind set and in the end, just having some fun. That's what it's all about," said Josh Corbett, their morning show co-host.

Some of the teams participating are playing for fun, some are taking it seriously; all though left with smiles.

Thirty teams in total laced up their skates to take part in this year's fundraiser for Northern Ontario Families of Children with Cancer (NOFCC) and Camp Quality Northern Ontario.

"So far so great,” said Dan Denoble, one of the festival’s organizers.

"We got games going on at three rinks right now so we have simultaneously at Robinson, Delki Dozzi and Northern Hockey Academy so thanks for them for hosting us and all the teams and volunteers. It's a great start so far."

It had been a couple of years since organizers were able to hold the festival because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Things gradually got warmer on Saturday.

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"We help people in need and we help people in Greater Sudbury and beyond … it's just a great way to give back," said Corbett.

"You know a lot of people don't realize that children get cancer too and the children in our region - really do need the support," said Andrea Fortin of NOFCC.

Participants told CTV News that the key to success appeared to be having fun and staying warm.

"Oh so far so good - it's decent weather. It's snowin' a little bit but at least it's not too chilly today and it was a big game for D-5 so we're pretty happy to be taking that one home," said Jonah Lynott, a member of the D-5 team.

Tournament play continues until Sunday.

For more information on the festival, visit their Facebook page.