Monroe County is currently hosting the fifth annual United States Hockey League (USHL) American Cup powered by Wegmans, a four-day event bringing top-tier junior and youth hockey talent to the region. Beyond the thrilling on-ice action, the tournament’s extensive youth component is delivering a significant economic boost to the local community.
The American Cup youth tournament features a total of 52 teams competing in the 14U, 15U, and 16U divisions. 45 of these teams are traveling from outside the area, underscoring the event’s premier stature for ice hockey in North America.
Economic Impact: An Investment in Tourism
The influx of thousands of out-of-town participants—players, coaches, and their families—guarantees substantial activity across the hospitality sector. Based on economic projections, the American Cup is estimated to inject over $2.5 million in total economic impact for Monroe County. The event utilizes over 2,500 hotel room nights, directly supporting local hotels, restaurants, and shops as visitors explore the community.
The USHL games will take place on Thursday, December 4, at 7 p.m. ET, and on Friday, December 5, at 6 p.m. ET at the Tim Hortons Iceplex.
Elite Junior Hockey Clash: Youngstown Phantoms vs. Tri-City Storm
The USHL, recognized as the world’s leading junior hockey league, features a two-game, regular-season series as part of the American Cup. The Youngstown Phantoms and the Tri-City Storm are clashing on the ice, showcasing a roster full of high-level NHL prospects.
The exciting Friday night matchup, set for Friday, December 5, at 6 p.m. ET at the Tim Hortons Iceplex, will highlight several key players:
- Youngstown Phantoms: The Phantoms bring a high-octane offense led by players like Jack Hextall and Cooper Simpson.
- Tri-City Storm: The Storm’s lineup features top talent including forward Oliver Ozogany, top NHL draft-eligible defenseman Bode Laylin, and Detroit Red Wings draft pick Michal Pradel in net.
Children aged 12 and under who wear a hockey jersey will receive complimentary admission to the Friday night game.
Youth Tournament Action
The three-day tournament features top 14U, 15U, and 16U teams from across North America. The youth games are hosted at three facilities across the region: the Tim Hortons Iceplex, the Rochester Ice Center, and the Canandaigua Civic Center.
Game Schedule: https://ushl.hockeyshift.com/2025-american-cup-powered-by-wegmans
About the USHL
The United States Hockey League (USHL) and its 16 teams are committed to being the world’s leading junior hockey league. This season, USHL alumni hold more than 50% of NCAA Division I men’s hockey players and nearly 25% of NHL players. The league has developed over 285 direct NHL Draft picks since 2020. The USHL’s player-first approach, including a 2:1 practice-to-game ratio and a schedule with 92% of games played on weekends, provides an optimal environment for growth, creating pathways for stars like Auston Matthews, Kyle Connor, Jeremy Swayman, and Johnny Gaudreau.