Zombies Apocalypse Invitational

THE NHL EXPERIENCE FOR THE EVERYDAY PLAYER

Forget everything you know about "beginner" tournaments at the Zombie Apocalypse Invitational; you’re the headliner. Born from the fire of a winless debut season, we built the tournament we wished existed: a four-day, high-octane takeover of the iconic Snoopy’s Home Ice.

We’re talking smoke machines, "professional" light shows, live announcing, and a stadium atmosphere that turns every shift into a career highlight. This isn't just a weekend of hockey; it’s a four-day celebration of the grit and guts it takes to start this game as an adult.

MISSION: GROWTH THROUGH GRIT

The Invitational is strictly for beginners - the rookies, the late-bloomers, and the scrappy teams who play for the love of the sport rather than the name on the back of the jersey. Held every Memorial Day Weekend in Santa Rosa, this event is the ultimate proving ground for those who are "all in" on learning the game. We’ve stripped away the intimidation and replaced it with a supportive, high-energy environment where camaraderie is the currency. Our objective is simple: make hockey accessible, unforgettable, and undeniably fun for those just starting their journey.

PARTNER WITH THE APOCALYPSE

To our potential sponsors and partners: This is your chance to get on the ground floor of grassroots hockey’s most innovative event. We aren't just looking for logos on a rink board; we’re looking for allies to help us lower the barrier to entry for this sport. Whether it’s providing affordable equipment for new squads or hooking up participants with the gear they need to stay in the game, your partnership helps us turn "I’ve always wanted to try that" into "I’m a hockey player." Join us in celebrating the beginner and help us build something that resonates far beyond the final buzzer.

THE ZOMBIE APOCALYPSE DIFFERENCE

THE PRO TREATMENT FOR THE NEW PLAYER

We believe every player deserves their "under the lights" moment. While most tournaments treat beginners as an afterthought, we make you the main event. From player introductions and music to a live announcer, we provide a professional-grade atmosphere that celebrates your progress. It’s hockey as it was meant to be: inclusive, spirited, and focused entirely on the joy of the game.

COAST-TO-COAST CAMARADERIE

The Zombie Apocalypse Invitational has become a destination for teams across the country who value culture as much as competition. You’ll face squads from across North America who share the same mission: to play hard, respect the game, and build the beginner hockey community. It’s a rare opportunity to test your skills against a diverse field of players who are exactly where you are in their hockey journey.

A WEEKEND THAT DEFINES YOUR SEASON

Win or lose, you’ll leave Santa Rosa with more than just a box score. The Zombie Apocalypes Invitational is designed to be the highlight of your year - a four-day experience at the historic Snoopy’s Home Ice that fosters lifelong friendships and a deeper love for the sport. Whether you’re on the ice or in the stands, you’re part of a weekend that proves hockey is about the connections made long after the final buzzer sounds.

Rules:
Games are played using USA Hockey rules with the following highlights:

Format: FOUR GAME GUARANTEE
Round robin followed by a championship game and toilet bowl game.
Game Length: 5-minute warm up. Three 15-minute stop-time periods.
Timeouts: One 30-second timeout per team per game
Icing: Blue line icing
Overtime: For tied games, a single 5-minute 4-on-4 running time overtime.
Championship games include a 3 player shootout followed by 1player shootout until a winner is determined, or the ice-time has expired.
Mercy rule: Running time anytime a 6+ goal differential occurs in the third period.
No checking
No fighting: Zero tolerance.
Uniforms: Teams must have matching uniforms with player numbers on the backs.
Home teams wear dark, away teams wear white.
Player safety: Full gear is required; facemasks and neck guards are recommended.

Assumed Risk:This is a non-sanctioned event, equivalent to well organized pick up games, with refs, and score kept. All players will sign the rink waivers upon entering the facility and assume all risk associated with the on and off ice activity of playing hockey. Fans, coaches, etc are invited and assume their own risk by being in the facility.