From August 21 to 23, the Southernmost Hockey Club in Key West hosted the Southernmost Buttery Cup, a roller hockey tournament that drew teams from across Florida and beyond. The event took place on the club’s open‑air rink, which lacks a roof and therefore exposes players to the region’s intense sun and sudden rain showers.
A centerpiece of the tournament was a free hockey clinic on August 21, where former Toronto Maple Leafs forward Brandon Duhaime and Boston University women’s hockey captain Reagan Rust worked with local youth. Their presence added a professional touch and inspired many youngsters to try the sport.
The following days featured adult tournaments held in a round‑robin format, allowing clubs from different parts of the state to compete. Spectators enjoyed live DJs, raffles, merchandise vendors, food trucks and concessions, all of which were offered free of charge.
The Buttery Roller Foundation, a Florida nonprofit dedicated to promoting mental well‑being through hockey, organized the event. The foundation’s previous Wheeling for Wellness tournaments have supported causes such as Movember, Finding A Lost Voice and the Florida Panthers Warriors Foundation.
Club supporters, including Adeline Klepper, have emphasized the urgent need for a roof over the rink. Without shelter, practice opportunities are limited by weather, and the tournament’s fundraising goal is to finance roof improvements that would ensure consistent play for both youth and adult participants.
Beyond competition, the event aimed to foster community engagement and raise funds for charitable causes, including veterans’ support and mental‑health initiatives. By blending sport, entertainment and philanthropy, the Southernmost Buttery Cup illustrated how roller hockey can serve as a catalyst for positive social impact in Key West.