Hockey Is Hockey 2026

Wednesday, August 12

Draft Night at Hotel Indigo in Riverhead
Thursday, August 13 – Sunday, August 16

Feature Games, Clinics, Demos, Main Event Games & more

at Peconic Ice Rinks in Calverton, NY

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A Celebration of the Game

Hockey Is Hockey is a one-of-a-kind event that brings together players, families, fans, and the community to celebrate the sport in all its forms. From ice to inline to dek hockey, the weekend is built around the energy, passion, and grassroots spirit that make the game so special

Highlights:

Draft Night at Hotel Indigo in Riverhead
Ice, inline, and dek feature games
Clinics and demos
Main Event Games
Special guests and community appearances
Family-friendly atmosphere

Special Guests From Previous Events

Including Boston Bruins James Hagens, Legendary EBUG David Ayers, NY Islanders Kyle Pamieri, Local Legend & Journeyman John Schiavo, NY Islanders Legend Steve Webb and More!

How to Participate

Hockey Players, Coaches, Fans, Sponsors and Vendors -

For more information about getting involved, please contact Jim Tamburino

EMAIL JIM TAMBURINO

Skills Clinic with EBUG David Ayres,
John Schiavo & Kim Interdonato

Friday, August 14, 5:00-6:15pm - Open to All Ages & Skill Levels

The clinic will focus on Goaltending with Ayres, Skills & Skating with Schiavo, and Power Skating and Edge Work with Interdonato.

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Skills Clinic Instructors

Meet our Hockey is Hockey Week Skills Clinic Instructors

Legendary EBUG

David Ayres

David Ayres’ story is one of the most inspiring in hockey history.

After battling severe kidney disease, undergoing a kidney transplant, and overcoming years of physical and emotional adversity, David achieved what many thought was impossible. At 42 years old, he was unexpectedly called into an NHL game as the Emergency Backup Goaltender (EBUG) for the Carolina Hurricanes.

David went on to become:

The ONLY NHL EBUG in NHL history to win a game
The oldest goaltender in NHL history to record his first NHL win

His incredible journey captured the attention of the hockey world and inspired millions. A feature film based on David’s life story is currently in development, with the screenplay written by Jim Tamburino - General Manager of Peconic Ice Rinks and Founder of Hockey Is Hockey.

Local Legend & PWHL Walter Cup Champion

John Schiavo

John Schiavo brings elite-level playing and coaching experience to the clinic.

John currently serves as a Pro Skills Coach for the PWHL’s Minnesota Frost and has built an impressive career as both a professional ice and roller hockey player. He is also:

A multi-year Team USA Inline Hockey player and World Champion
A highly respected hockey skills instructor
A social media hockey influencer known throughout the hockey community

John has also been a major supporter of Hockey Is Hockey since its inception in 2015 and continues to help grow the game through his passion for teaching and mentorship.

Peconic Ice Rinks Skating Director

Kim Interdonato

Kim Interdonato, Skating Director at Peconic Ice Rinks, is a Level 4 USA Hockey Coach specializing in power skating and edge work development.

Kim’s focus on skating mechanics, balance, agility, and edge control has helped players of all ages improve their confidence and performance on the ice. Her energy and technical instruction make her one of the top skating instructors in the area.