TORONTO, ON—The 2024 U SPORTS Men’s Hockey Championship in Toronto is catching the hockey world’s eye more than in recent times, and several NHL and AHL scouts have been watching the eight teams competing over four days. 

However, unlike past tournaments, which featured primarily amateur scouts for one or two days and required a more dedicated effort from the Montreal Canadiens and Winnipeg Jets organizations, the 2024 tournament charges scouts for access. 

On opening day, as the UNB Reds eliminated the Brock Badgers and the TMU Bold knocked off the Calgary Dinos, seven scouts were in the building, representing the Jets, Canadiens, Nashville Predators, Minnesota Wild, Ottawa Senators and Edmonton Oilers. 

However, sources told 49 Sports that several other scouts and general managers were intrigued to attend the tournament but were put off by the $180 pricetag charged for scout access. Given the tournament is in Toronto, often thought to be the hockey Mecca, there is little doubt the hassle factor of paying for access costs eyes on some of the talent showcased, even with NHL clubs able to front the cost.

The hosting committee is responsible for the pricing decisions, working in conjunction with U SPORTS.

While NHL teams can afford the extra cost to lay eyes on the professional potential in U SPORTS, the pricing issues also hit the fan and student supporters, with the cheapest entry listed at $30.95, with no student discount. 

The price tag, compared to regular season TMU games, which feature free student access, drew many away from the tournament. TMU’s opening game saw an official attendance of 1,281 fans on Thursday night despite last-minute free ticket giveaways to students. 

TMU adjusted their approach for the semifinal against UNB on Saturday, offering free tickets to all students.

Several scouts will make their way through the TMU building during the regular season and are afforded free access, while students can attend regular season and playoff games for free with student card, a courtesy not awarded during the University Cup.