This past weekend, players from the Charleston Youth Hockey Association (CYHA) traveled to Detroit, Michigan to compete in the CCM Detroit Motown Tournament, one of the largest and most prestigious youth hockey events in North America. The tournament featured an incredible 345 teams across 23 divisions, bringing together top talent from across the United States and Canada.

Representing Charleston were players from the 10U and 12U age groups, who joined forces with teammates from across North and South Carolina to compete as part of the Carolina Alliance program. The Alliance gives elite players from the region the chance to play at the highest level, facing off against AAA-caliber competition and gaining valuable experience against top-tier teams.

The highlight of the weekend came from the 12U Carolina Alliance Team, which won the championship in dominant fashion. Charleston’s Braxton Buoniconti was a key contributor throughout the weekend, while goaltender Jack Gainey was stellar in the final game, earning a 4–0 shutout victory and being named MVP of the Championship Game.

The 10U Alliance Team, featuring Eli Pence, Rex French, and Drake Hapka from Charleston, showcased relentless energy and a dominant forecheck, consistently generating offensive opportunities. Competing in a tough division, the team finished 1–3 on the weekend, but the experience and pace of play will help these players bring that intensity back home to elevate their Jr Rays teammates as the season continues.

Participating in the CCM Motown Tournament offers Charleston players a valuable chance to test their skills, grow their game, and proudly represent the continued growth of youth hockey in the Lowcountry. 

The Alliance will reform after the New Year to attend the Pittsburgh Super Series Showcase January 2-4th in Pennsylvania.  

Congratulations to all our players and coaches—Go Rays!