Unseasonably warm weather last winter forced the Michigan Pond Hockey Sports Charity to cancel its annual tournament at Whitmore Lake.

The tournament will be back and better than ever in 2013, with Red Bull added as a title sponsor and the winner of the top division heading to an all expenses paid trip to Helsinki, Finland to compete for a world championship.

The fifth annual Michigan Pond Hockey Classic will be held on Whitmore Lake from Jan. 25-27 next to Mac's Marina. Red Bull will sponsor the winner of the top division to compete at the Red Bull Open Ice championships in Helsinki.

“I am so excited to be working with Red Bull Open Ice this year. This opportunity will drive further exposure about our event; it will also give us a chance to raise more awareness for our charity. As a result, we will be able to help more children during these hard financial times,” said Meechele Nettle, director of sponsorship development.

The annual 4-on-4 hockey tournament is the main event for the Michigan Pond Hockey Sports Charities, which distributes proceeds from the event to local hockey organizations and school districts.

While the top division will be highly competitive, there are men's, women's co-ed and master's divisions that are for players of lesser skill as well. The semifinals and finals of the tournament will be held on Sunday, Jan. 27. MPHSC is expecting 120-140 teams to compete this year. While warm weather caused last year's even to be cancelled, indoor contingency plans have been added this year.

In addition to the hockey there will be heated entertainment tents, live music and concessions all weekend long. Registration re-opens Dec. 23 and will remain open until Jan. 6 or until all the slots are filled.

Click here for registration details.