For media inquiries, interviews, or additional information, please contact:
Krystal Westfahl
Minocqua Area Visitors Bureau
krystal@minocqua.org
715-356-5266

 Minocqua, WI – The Wisconsin Governor's Conference on Tourism was a night to remember as Will Jeffery, the visionary behind American Pond Hockey, was honored with the prestigious Service Excellence Award. While Will was unable to attend, the Minocqua Area Visitors Bureau proudly took the stage to accept the award on his behalf, celebrating his well-deserved recognition. The award was given to Will at the Visitors Center today with many of his trusted volunteers by his side. 

The Service Excellence Award is presented to an organization or individual that has demonstrated significant success and tourism growth through exceptional service and strong charitable involvement in the community. Will Jeffery embodies these values through his relentless dedication to American Pond Hockey, a winter event that has transformed Minocqua into a premier cold-weather destination.

A Growing Legacy: American Pond Hockey’s Impact

Since its launch in 2023, the American Pond Hockey Invitational has rapidly gained momentum, becoming a highlight of Minocqua’s winter tourism season. The event, which initially attracted local teams and a few from as far as Florida, has expanded in just three years to welcome teams from across the U.S. and internationally—including participants from England and Germany. This rapid growth has cemented the tournament as a globally recognized event and a major winter attraction.

The overwhelming success of the Invitational led to the creation of a second event, aptly named “The Sequel”, extending the excitement across two weekends. Even in challenging winter conditions, American Pond Hockey has demonstrated resilience and adaptability, ensuring games continue at the historic Aqua Bowl, a landmark also home to the renowned Min-Aqua Bats waterski show in the summer. By integrating into Minocqua’s year-round tourism strategy, American Pond Hockey has reinforced the town’s reputation as a must-visit destination in all seasons.

Commitment to Service and Community

Beyond the tournament, American Pond Hockey has made a lasting impact on the community through its commitment to service and charitable contributions. The organization has:

• Maintained a public skating area at the Aqua Bowl, providing free access to a winter-long wild ice skating park cherished by locals and visitors alike.
• Supported local non-profits, including the Lakeland Hawks Ice Arena and the volunteer-run Minocqua Fire and Rescue Department, both of which benefit from event proceeds.
• Partnered with Rocky Reef Brewing Company to create “Pond Hockey Pils,” a specialty beer that directs a portion of sales back to the Lakeland Hawks Ice Arena.
• Fostered the Northwoods Adult Recreational Hockey community, strengthening the local hockey scene and building camaraderie among players of all skill levels.

These initiatives reflect a deep dedication to both guests and the broader Northwoods community, making American Pond Hockey a shining example of Wisconsin hospitality and community-driven tourism.

Why Will Jeffery Deserves This Recognition

Will Jeffery’s vision, passion, and leadership have transformed American Pond Hockey from a local tournament into a cornerstone of winter tourism. His commitment to excellence, from maintaining top-quality ice conditions to fostering strong community partnerships, has elevated Minocqua’s profile as a winter sports hub. His unwavering dedication has not only boosted regional tourism but also created an experience that celebrates the beauty of winter and the warmth of the Northwoods spirit. In 2024, American Pond Hockey was honored with the Minocqua area “Community Spirit Award”, further underscoring its significance as a cultural and economic driver in the region. This tournament now stands alongside legendary Wisconsin traditions such as the Arbor Vitae’s annual Fireman’s Summerfest and Minocqua’s Beef-A-Rama, reinforcing Minocqua’s reputation as a gathering place for celebration and camaraderie. A Bright Future for Winter Tourism in Minocqua Pond hockey is more than just a game—it’s a winter tourism powerhouse that blends outdoor recreation with deep community connection. American Pond Hockey’s success is built on the dedication of volunteers and local businesses that work together to create an unforgettable experience for players and spectators alike. From meticulously maintained ice rinks to heated shelters, fire pits, and local food and drink offerings, the event is a true celebration of winter in the Northwoods.

With each passing year, American Pond Hockey continues to grow, bringing visitors from around the world to experience the magic of Minocqua’s winter landscape. Will Jeffery’s recognition with the Service Excellence Award is a testament to his incredible contributions, and we are beyond proud to celebrate this well-earned achievement.

Congratulations, Will! Your hard work and dedication have made an unforgettable impact on our community and the future of winter tourism in Minocqua.