History

Driven by a hunger for spirited, low-stakes competition, the players of the Hopewell Hitmen Hockey Club found themselves in search of a new challenge after their days on the rink came to a close. With a growing passion for the game of golf, the leaders of the Hitmen cast their gaze toward the links. Inspired by the grandeur of the Ryder Cup, the ultimate prize in professional golf, it was only fitting that the premier amateur event would follow in its footsteps.

Thus, from the ashes of the Hopewell Hitmen Hockey Club arose the Hitmen Ryder Cup—a tournament destined to satisfy even the fiercest competitive appetites. The inaugural event in 2019 saw teams split by hockey positions, pitting Offense against Defense in a novel format. The following year saw the same structure, but with the Defense team’s dominance, it became clear that a shakeup was needed.

In 2021, the tournament underwent its first draft-style event, a format repeated the next year. While this produced more dramatic finishes, fans yearned for the rivalries and storylines that make sport truly memorable. The breakthrough came in 2023, when officials unveiled a monumental shift—Penn State versus The World®.

Since this landmark decision, the Hitmen Ryder Cup has experienced tremendous growth, with the new team format capturing the imagination of fans and competitors alike. The future shines bright as players prepare for battle, year after year, in what has become a rivalry for the ages.