HAMDEN, Conn. - Quinnipiac University will host the 2010 Qwest Tour featuring the USA Hockey Women's National Team when they hit the ice in an exhibition game against the ECAC Hockey All-Stars on Sunday, Jan. 3, 2010 at the TD Bank Sports Center in Hamden, Conn. In addition the afternoon will feature the first scholastics match-up in the TD Bank Sports Center's history when the girls varsity teams from Hamden High School and Guilford High School face each other in a CIAC match-up set for 4:30 p.m.

"It's an honor and a privilege to be the first girl's hockey scholastic matchup at the TD Bank Sports Center," Hamden Director of Athletics Jeanne Cooper said. "Our girls are thrilled at the opportunity to be on the same ice as the USA Hockey Women's National Team. We are excited to be a part of this wonderful event."

Quinnipiac will serve as one of a handful of venues across the country to host the USA Hockey team. The event will take place just three weeks prior to the start of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games in Vancouver, British Columbia.

"The Guilford High School Girl's Hockey Team is pleased and excited to be a part of the Women's Ice Festival at Quinnipiac University," Guilford Director of Athletics Chip Dorwin said. "The evolution of high school girl's hockey in recent years has been exciting to witness. To be able to be a part of this Festival and to showcase high school girl's hockey as  part of a day where the best players in our country are also ing is an extraordinary opportunity for our players. We are grateful to Quinnipiac University and their Athletic Department for making us a part of this outstanding event."

The game between the national team and the league's best is set for a 2 p.m. start and will follow a junior women's ice hockey game between the Connecticut Polar Bears and the New Jersey Colonials at 11 a.m.

"This is a proud time for Quinnipiac University and ECAC Hockey," Quinnipiac head coach Rick Seeley said. "We have an exceptional opportunity to showcase women's ice hockey and our TD Bank Sports Center, with an event that features world-class athletes competing at their highest level. This will be a memorable day for all involved".

Schedule of Events - Sunday, January 3, 2010
11:00 AM - Connecticut Polar Bears vs. New Jersey Colonials
2:00 PM   - USA Women's National Team vs. ECAC Hockey All-Stars
4:30 PM   - Hamden High School vs. Guilford High School

All games on this historic day will be included in all season ticket packages. Additional activities planned for that day include a series of photo and autograph opportunities with the USA National Women's Ice Hockey Team.

Those interested in purchasing tickets for the Qwest Tour should visit www.quinnipiacbobcats.com or call the TD Bank Sports Center box office at 203-582-3905.