The Friendship Four is the only officially sanctioned NCAA Division I hockey tournament held outside the United States.
After Boston and Belfast became sister cities, the tournament was created, taking inspiration from Boston’s legendary Beanpot hockey tournament, to deepen the connection between the two cities.
These athletes are not only competing for the coveted Belpot Trophy, the results of the tournament also impact their NCAA rankings.
Get in on the action! Be the Ultimate Fan & Join your team
2026
Participating Schools in the 2026 Friendship Four:
University of Connecticut, Providence College, University of Minnesota Duluth & Colgate University
2027
Participating Schools in the 2027 Friendship Four:
Northeastern University, Quinnipiac University, University of North Dakota & University of Wisconsin
2028
Participating Schools in the 2028 Friendship Four:
University of Notre Dame, University of Nebraska Omaha, Dartmouth College & University of Maine
10
Years of NCAA Hockey in Belfast
The Friendship Four has delivered elite NCAA hockey experiences in Belfast since 2015.
Over 10
Tournaments and Counting
A growing legacy of elite college hockey matchups in Northern Ireland.
29+
NCAA Schools Have Participated
Top college hockey programs from across the U.S. have competed in the Friendship Four.
5
NCAA Conferences Represented
The Friendship Four attracts top teams from across Division I college hockey.
Past Participating Teams
See What the Fans have to say Real stories of how hockey is shaping a legacy in Ireland
“Sara, I hope that you are doing well. I just wanted to thank you both again (as well as Orla) for all of your help with our Belfast trip. Everyone loved it!”
Katherine McGinn Hall
Victory Club Coordinator of University of Vermont Athletics
“So much enjoyed the trip to Ireland with Cara Group Travel for the Friendship Four Hockey Tournament. Our guide, Gerry was fantastic. It was amazing to visit Dublin, Belfast and many points in between.”
Dawn Harrison
UConn Fan
“Merrimack Friends and Family Friendship Four trips did not disappoint! We loved the hotel locations that were chosen for us as well as all the tours. What an amazing experience we had!! I only wish the trip was longer…next time!!”
Denise Rushton
Merrimack Parent
frequently asked questions (FAQs) About the Friendship Four
How do I get to Belfast?
Round-trip transfers from Dublin Airport to Belfast are included. Four night package only includes return transfer to airport. Transfers to Belfast are available upon request.
Are flights included in my travel package pricing?
Flights are not included in the price of each travel package. Our packages are land-only. However, we can book flights for groups or individuals. We work directly with all airlines to ensure that travelers who book our packages have flight options available. The sooner you sign up, the better.
What hotels will we be staying at?
All hotels will be announced approximately 6 weeks before the tournament. In order to keep the team and fans together, all hotels are assigned based on final numbers.
We try to keep the parents of the players and other VIPs at the same hotels as their corresponding teams, or at a hotel close by. This is up to the school’s discretion and also depends on availability at the accommodations.
Are game tickets included in the travel packages?
Yes! The Belfast Giants have specially allocated game tickets for each school’s travel packages. The best way to guarantee your game tickets is to book your trip to Belfast with us!
Can I buy game tickets only?
Tickets are limited:
The SSE Arena has a limited number of seats. Tickets are very popular with traveling fans, local supporters, and Belfast Giants season ticket holders.
Best way to guarantee tickets:
The only way to lock in your seat is to book a travel package and place a $500 deposit. Packages are only available while supplies last.
Single-game tickets:
Single-game tickets may go on sale 3 to 6 months before the tournament. They will only be available if tickets remain after travel packages are sold. There will not be a presale.
Spots are limited, you don’t want to miss out on this once in a lifetime opportunity to support your team in Belfast! Click the year your team is traveling
2026
Participating Schools in the 2026 Friendship Four:
University of Connecticut, Providence College, University of Minnesota Duluth & Colgate University
2027
Participating Schools in the 2027 Friendship Four:
Northeastern University, Quinnipiac University, University of North Dakota & University of Wisconsin
2028
Participating Schools in the 2028 Friendship Four:
University of Notre Dame, University of Nebraska Omaha, Dartmouth College & University of Maine
Inside the Friendship Four Discover the History, Stories and Travel Partner
The History
Testimonials
Our Official Travel Partner
