Hundreds of female hockey players will be facing off this weekend as the Annual Okotoks Female Hockey Classic kicks off Thursday, November 9.

All divisions will be featured, from novice to midget, with 650 athletes on 42 teams competing.

Tournament Coordinator Jennifer Dustow points out that they've reached a milestone with this year's tournament.

"This is our tenth anniversary," she says, "which is really exciting for us here in Okotoks, to have females showcased like this, that has continued to grow in size over the last 10 years."

Dustow says this year's celebrations will feature a glow dance party for the players as well as some special giveaways for all those who volunteer countless hours to support their teams as well as the growth of female hockey, including managers, coaches and parents.

She says one aspect to the tournament that has remained constant over the past ten years is the support they've received from the community.

"When our teams go out and are asking for support to help offset the expenses of a tournament of this size, the community embraces us and for that we're very thankful. In return, we bring 1,200 plus people to the community and we hope that has a positive impact on our businesses during the weekend of this tournament every year."

Local female hockey teams benefit from the tournament proceeds and there's a charitable component to the event as well.

"We know, over the last couple of years, the economy in Alberta has been hit hard and so our teams donate a portion of our proceeds back to our community," Dustow explains. "Part of that goes back to the (Okotoks Minor Hockey Association) Hardship Fund to help athletes who aren't able to afford the opportunity to play hockey, and then the Okotoks Food Bank as well."

Games will be held at the Okotoks Recreation Centre, Scott Seaman Sports Rink in DeWinton, and the Pason Centennial Arena for the finals, Sunday, November 12.