Need a Hockey Fix?

Yes, I said "hockey". It's not the beach variety pictured above, instead the more conventional kind that's played indoors on ice.

As we approach mid-July, it's probably the last thing on the minds of even the most die-hard of fans.

However, for those who just can't get enough of the sport, there are options this weekend in the Northland.

Duluth Marshall hosts high school hockey tournaments both this weekend and next. This weekend's event features six teams, with the host Hilltoppers joined by Superior, Willmar, Duluth Central, Duluth Denfeld, and Proctor.

The full schedule can be found here.

Next weekend's field is arguably a bit more impressive. Marshall is joined by Grand Rapids, Cloquet, St. Cloud Cathedral, Warroad, Benilde-St. Margaret's, Bemidji, and something called the South Side Stars.

There is one other event this weekend. This one is in Cloquet, where the Lumberjacks are joined by Hermantown, Duluth Denfeld, Spring Lake Park, Eagan, New Prague, Buffalo, and Andover.

While the intensity isn't exactly at the level of the state tournament, these events give kids a chance to get some competitive ice time in during the summer. For younger kids who are trying to get noticed for a shot at the varsity, these weekends can be highly valuable.