9th Annual Buffalo Building Trades Hockey Tournament at Buffalo RiverWorks

This past weekend, the Buffalo Building Trades community came together once again for the 9th Annual Buffalo Building Trades Hockey Tournament — and what a weekend it was. 

From Friday night, February 27th through Sunday, March 1st, the ice at Buffalo RiverWorks was packed with intensity, camaraderie, and the kind of hard-nosed competition you’d expect from the men and women who help build Western New York. 

A Weekend of Grit, Brotherhood & Community 

Every game was a battle. The tournament showcased the same toughness, teamwork, and discipline that the building trades bring to job sites across Buffalo every single day. Shifts were short, hits were strong, and every team left it all on the ice. 

But this tournament is more than just hockey. 

It’s about brotherhood. It’s about community. It’s about bringing unions, families, friends, and supporters together for a weekend we look forward to all year long. 

Drinks were shared. Memories were made. Laughs echoed through the rink. Conversations sparked new friendships and strengthened old ones. It was a reminder of how strong the Buffalo building trades community truly is — both on and off the ice. 

Thank You to the Unions & Tradesmen 

A special thank you goes out to all of the unions and tradesmen who participated in this year’s tournament. Your dedication, competitive spirit, and pride in representing your locals made this weekend what it was. 

The same grit you bring to constructing stadiums, bridges, buildings, and landmarks across Western New York was on full display at RiverWorks. This tournament is a reflection of the hardworking men and women who keep our region moving forward — and we are grateful for every team that laced up their skates and took part. 

A Meaningful Moment with Mental Health Advocates of WNY 

We were especially honored to have Mental Health Advocates of Western New York join us for the ceremonial puck drop. 

Their presence was a powerful reminder that mental health matters — in the trades, in sports, and in everyday life. Raising awareness and supporting mental wellness is something that impacts every community, and we’re thankful they were part of such a meaningful moment during the weekend. 

Congratulations to the Ironworkers 

After a hard-fought tournament, congratulations go out to the Ironworkers for taking home the trophy and winning this year’s championship. 

It was a well-earned victory after a weekend of intense competition. The determination and pride on display throughout the tournament perfectly represented the spirit of the trades. 

Thank You to Our Sponsors & Supporters 

Events like this don’t happen without incredible support behind the scenes. A huge thank you to all of the sponsors who helped make this tournament possible. Your continued commitment allows this event to grow stronger every single year. 

And most importantly — thank you to everyone who came out to play, support, cheer, volunteer, and celebrate. You are the reason this tournament has become such a staple event in our community calendar. 

We’re already counting down the days until next year. 

Here’s to another unforgettable weekend of hockey, unity, and Buffalo pride. 

Check out all our photos from the event below!

Feel free to download and share. If you would like to order prints please contact us.