Michael Carcone, a forward for the Utah Mammoth, has been watching the landscape of youth hockey in the state transform over the last two years, as his own sons have become more immersed in the sport.
Spurred by that personal experience, Carcone decided to create a summer tournament that would keep young players on the ice when the weather warms, scheduling the inaugural Carcone Cup for June 13 and 14 at the Utah Mammoth Ice Center.
A Summer Boost for Utah Hockey
The event will feature a four‑team co‑ed round‑robin format across the 8U, 10U and 12U age groups, giving families a chance to see competitive play while reinforcing skill development.
Beyond the games, Carcone hopes the tournament will serve as a catalyst for broader community engagement, encouraging kids who might otherwise gravitate toward baseball or football to stay involved in hockey.
He envisions the Carcone Cup growing into a staple of Utah’s summer sports calendar, eventually expanding to include more teams and perhaps even regional qualifiers.
Local rinks and sponsors have partnered with the initiative to ensure a smooth experience for players and parents alike, emphasizing safety, fair play, and the joy of competition.