For nearly 30 years, this youth hockey tournament has been connecting Delaware County with Finland

A spring break tradition continues in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, this week as the Finland-USA Exchange brings the Haverford Hawks and the Viikingit Club of Helsinki together in more ways than just on the ice.

Thursday kicked off a three-day hockey tournament between the two clubs at Skatium in Havertown.

The tradition dates back 27 years. This year, 90 players — boys and girls from both countries, ages 12-13 — are participating.

"It's been very nice meeting all the American hockey players and spending time with them," Finnish player Otto Matikka said.

Will Keffer, who plays for Haverford, added, "I think it's a cool experience and fun to play against kids from different nations."

The week-long exchange alternates between countries every year. Visiting players stay with host families for the trip.

Travis Sullivan of the Hawks said his family is hosting some Finnish players for the week.

"[We] play a lot of mini sticks and stuff," Travis said.

While Thursday kicks off the tournament, the festivities started days before.

"When they're here, they go and visit New York," Haverford Hawks president Jeffrey Brody said. "They sightsee Philadelphia. They got to see a Flyers game."

A week-long worth of memories that will last a lifetime.

"It's not about the hockey only, it's about the community and families meeting each other," Finland coach Jere Gurunen said, "and there's lots of life-long friendships made."

The exchange continues next year with Finland as the host country.