JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Hockey will return to its roots this weekend in Jamestown by bringing the widely popular sport outdoors.

Hockey Day North Dakota was an idea brought forth by Jeff Romsdal, President of Pure Hockey Skills. Using Hockey Day Minnesota as part of his inspiration, Romsdal says he saw the merit of hosting a similar event in North Dakota.

Romsdal says he grew up playing on the outdoor rink at McElroy Park in Jamestown. He says his interest in hockey was passed down from his father, Fran Romsdal.

Now, it comes full circle with Hockey Day North Dakota as the game returns outdoors. Games including the young Jamestown mini-mites and termites, Peewee teams from several communities across the state including high school and the University of Jamestown will all be held on a specially built outdoor rink on the college campus.

Romsdal says it’s taken numerous volunteers, sponsors and more to make the three-day, statewide hockey celebration a reality.

Concessions, firepits, seating and buildings will be available to spectators during the events. Cost to go is $10 for adults and kids 18 and under get in free. If inclement weather, the event will be pushed back to another weekend in January.

Saturday Blue Jay boys and girls and University of Jamestown hockey will be broadcast on ESPN AM 1400/97.1 FM and streamed on NewsDakota.com.

You can find more information about Hockey Day North Dakota here.

Listen to a full interview with Jeff Romsdal on Let’s Talk About It below: