Discover the LivFree
24 Hour Hockey Marathon
The 24 Hour Hockey Marathon is more than just a game — it’s nonstop action for an extraordinary cause. Players hit the ice for a full day of hockey, joining forces to raise funds and awareness for kids and families impacted by pediatric cancer.
From the first puck drop, it’s a display of endurance, teamwork, and heart. Whether you’re playing or cheering from the stands, you’ll experience the energy of hockey mixed with the joy of giving back.
Born in Connecticut and expanding to arenas across the country, the 24 Hour Hockey Marathon brings together passionate players, fans, and communities — proving that when we play for a purpose, we make a difference, one shift at a time.
Upcoming Marathons…
March 26 - 27
Connecticut
Martire Family Arena at Sacred Heart University
April 2 - 3
South Bend, IN
Compton Family Ice Arena at U. of Notre Dame
April 10 - 11
Michigan
Munn Ice Arena at Michigan State U.
May 22 - 23
Arizona
Mullett Arena at Arizona State University
June 5 - 6
Ohio
Goggin Ice Center at Miami University
June 12 - 13
Chicago, IL
Blackhawks Ice Center
June 26 - 27
Seattle, WA
Kraken Community Iceplex
July 10 - 11
Boston, MA
Warrior Ice Arena
July 24 - 25
Pittsburgh, PA
UPMC Penguins Rink
November 7 - 8
North Dakota
Ralph Engelstad Arena at University of North Dakota
Game and Player Info
Game Format & Schedule
The 24 Hour Hockey Marathon is a continuous hockey game played on a running 24-hour clock, with the score tracked from start to finish.
Approximately 80–100 players share the ice across 20+ periods, with periods lengths ranging from 25–90 minutes. Players span all abilities and ages 17+.
The game is played exhibition style with full gear, volunteer referees and no checking. There is a zero tolerance for fighting!
And while we keep score, there is no championship and no trophy waiting at the end. The final score is just one small part of the story.
The real goal is bigger: to bring hockey players together, build a community, and use the game we love to create moments of hope and joy for kids and families fighting pediatric cancer.
Divisions & Team Placement
Whether you’re an adult league regular, a former college player, or somewhere in between, there’s a place for you in the 24 Hour Hockey Marathon. All divisions share the same ice time, amenities, swag, and unforgettable experience — the only difference is the level of play.
During registration, you’ll answer a few short questions to help place you in the right division and form balanced teams. If you have questions about your placement, our team will help make sure you’re in the perfect fit for your skill level.
Want to skate with a friend or teammate? Registration is by individuals but you can request to play with specific players.
The Marathon’s Mission
The 24 Hour Hockey Marathon is more than a game—it’s about creating Moments of Joy for kids and families fighting pediatric cancer.
Every player is empowered to raise funds in support of LivFree’s mission. Those funds help provide children and their families with experiences that give them a break from cancer and a chance to simply live free.
With every marathon, we work to make an impact in the community where the game is played, connecting with local hospitals, organizations and families. Some of those families even join us at the marathon as guests of honor, giving players the opportunity to meet the kids and families behind the mission—and see the impact of their efforts firsthand. Meet some of our families, visit our Wall of Smiles.
Swag & Facilities
Every player receives a custom event gear, jersey and socks. But that’s just the start. We love to shower our players in awesome gear, and the full swag lineup will be announced as the event approaches. We are proud to partner with incredible brands like Howie’s, Sparx and more to create best in the industry swag.
Each 24-Hour Hockey Marathon is hosted in a top-tier, state-of-the-art arena that gives players a true professional experience. From the ice to the locker rooms, every detail is designed to make the weekend unforgettable.
We make sure every player is taken care of on and off the ice:
Access to locker rooms and player areas
Meals, snacks, and hydration stations throughout the 24 hours
Rest areas and team zones for recovery
On-site athletic trainers and event staff
A high-energy atmosphere with music, fans, and fun all marathon long.
Player Fundraising
We know fundraising can feel daunting, but you’re not alone. Our team provides:
A personalized fundraising page you can customize and share
Custom flyers and social media templates to spread the word
Tips, tricks, and encouragement throughout the months leading up to the game
Incentives and unique prizes to hit fundraising goals. Visit each Marathon’s registration site for more details.
Our past players consistently share that, with a little effort and a lot of heart, reaching their goals is absolutely achievable — and incredibly rewarding.
What Players Are Saying
Player FAQs
For full player information, please visit one of the event specific pages
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This event is adult hockey and players must be 17 years and up. Men and women are welcome to participate. All skill levels are welcome! From recreational adult league players to former D1 and semi-pro athletes, we place each player in a division that fits their ability.
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Players are grouped based on skill and experience in divisions that split the 24 hours of ice time. When players register, they are asked questions about their experience and preferred group. We’ll work with you to ensure a fun and competitive fit.
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Since this game is hockey for a cause, each player commits to raising funds to support LivFree’s mission.
We provide a custom fundraising page, tools, resources, and guidance to make fundraising easy and rewarding. If you are unsure about fundraising, please fill out the form on this page and our team will walk you through the process.
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Players average 7+ hours on the ice, they rotate through multiple ice times over 24 hours.
Longest shifts: up to 2.5 hours (typically overnight)
Other sessions: 25–60 minutes
You can view additional schedule details on your event specific page.
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All players receive:
Custom event jerseys and hoodie or shirt.
Swag (We work to partner with top hockey, fitness, energy and other companies for unique and exciting player gifts.)
Access to premium arenas, your own locker and shared team facilities, along with personal trainers and other support staff.
All meals, snacks and drinks provided throughout the event.
Memories and camaraderie that last a lifetime
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At this time we are only looking for players who can commit to a full 24 hour game. Your actual playing time will be approximately 7 hours.
Spectator & Sponsor FAQs
Details may vary by event/venue, so please visit specific event pages.
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We offer multiple sponsorship opportunities, including arena signage, branded swag, media coverage, and digital marketing exposure. Please contact us at LivSports@livfreetoday.org to determine the best fit for your company.
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Each marathon is kicked off with an Opening Ceremonies open to the public. Family, friends, media and sponsors may have additional opportunities to attend the event. Schedules will be venue specific.
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Typically, yes, the public is encouraged to attend the Opening Ceremonies and first shifts of the game that kicks off every marathon. Friends and family will have additional opportunities to attend and cheer for our players. Details vary based on marathon location. Questions can be sent to LivFree@LivFreeToday.org.
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LivFree welcomes volunteers! Please email us at LivSports@livfreetoday.org for more information.
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Donations can be made to a specific player or general donation account on our DONATION PAGE.
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Two CT hockey dads talking during jersey fittings about an idea for a 24 hour charity hockey game in 2024. That idea grew rapidly into 100 Skaters, Goalies and Refs assembling to participate in this feat of endurance all while raising funds for LivFree’s mission of providing moments of JOY and HOPE to families affected by pediatric cancer.
Helping Kids with Cancer, One Shift at a Time.
Thank you to our generous sponsors
Interested in becoming a sponsor for a 24 Hour Hockey Marathon? Visit our sponsorship options and contact us at LivSports@LivFreeToday.org.
Click the image below for the full sponsorship opportunities package.
More Marathons on the horizon for 2027…
Our team is always looking for new homes for the 24 Hour Hockey Marathon—facilities and hockey communities that can provide our participants with an elite, memorable experience while helping us bring our mission to new communities.
Interested in playing in a new destination—or have another location you think we should consider? Let us know by filling out the form below.