Kids get into spirited on-ice brawl during pro hockey game intermission
Fighting has always been part of hockey, but that aspect of the game took on a slightly different look on Saturday.
Kids playing hockey between periods of a professional game has become somewhat of a tradition over the years. It gives young, aspiring players a chance to share the same ice as their heroes and play in front of a big crowd. For the most part, it’s a cute and harmless activity that can make for some adorable moments.
That, however, wasn’t the case at this weekend’s AHL game between the Hershey Bears and Cleveland Monsters. The kids took to the ice, but tempers started to flare, and that spiralled into an all-out brawl between the teams.
Even the goalies got involved in the action, as there didn’t seem to be a ref or official readily available to break up the melee.
Kids getting AFTER it on the ice in the Hershey Bears intermission game #ElectricFactory pic.twitter.com/DtPjjbK3Vl
— Allie Berube (@allieberube) January 11, 2026
The video of the donnybrook went viral on social media, with many finding it hilarious. While fighting is not nearly as common as it used to be in the NHL, it seems these kids wanted to revive an old-time brand of hockey for their moment in the limelight.
Many were not shy to crack jokes about the situation on social media.
Niños disputándose unas castañas, by Francisco Goya, 1777-85 pic.twitter.com/SOGeaTUBG3
— ArtButMakeItSports (@ArtButSports) January 11, 2026
“This is the best thing I’ve ever seen,” said one X user.
Had no idea Binnington was in Hershey https://t.co/jiaCfFAnrx
— Greg Wyshynski (@wyshynski) January 11, 2026
“The goalie’s pregame song is Wrecking Ball,” said another X user.
There were, however, plenty of people concerned about the incident. With all the kids involved and the chaos on the ice, some pointed out that the amount of skates flailing on the ice as a result presented a bit of a safety risk.
Fighting, in any form, can also obviously result in injury, which is the last thing a parent wants to see happen to their child while playing hockey. Like it or not, these kids were all at risk of getting hurt, especially with no ref to help control things.
Decided to change my harshly worded tweet about this incident from Saturday night. If you find anything about this cute or charming or funny or harmless…I have no words. Because it's none of those things. https://t.co/tcESUssJ3K
— Ken Campbell (@Ken_Campbell27) January 11, 2026
“The long-time former hockey referee in me is shocked by this video. Multiple skates close to players’ necks, checks from behind, cross checks. Where are the coaches and refs?” said one user on X.
“Disgraceful to the game, and I love the fighting in the NHL. Time and a place, this is horrible,” said another.
The fact there's no adults stopping this while these children endanger themselves should probably end @TheHersheyBears' freedom to have kids on the ice. This is not normal or safe. https://t.co/A0Y9lPw0l3
— Ian Kennedy (@IanKennedyCK) January 11, 2026
There is no word on whether or not anybody suffered an injury as a result of the brawl or if everyone walked away unscathed. One thing is for sure: a ref or coach will surely be on the ice next time this happens to make sure it doesn’t get too out of hand.