The Pennsylvania hockey org says it’s an exploratory youth game

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One of the wildest fights of the hockey season may have occurred during halftime of an American Hockey League game between the Hershey Bears and Cleveland Monsters.

The Bears’ “Mites on Ice” segment features youth hockey players competing against each other during halftime. However, competitive play turned into an all-out brawl involving players from the Central Penn Panthers Youth Ice Hockey Club.

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A close-up of an American Hockey League logo during the game between the Hershey Bears and Rockford IceHogs at the Giant Center on January 4, 2026 in Hershey, Pennsylvania. (Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

The club said on Sunday it was investigating the events leading up to the brawl.

“We have been made aware of an incident that occurred last night during the ‘Mites on Ice’ event between periods of the Hershey Bears game,” the organization said. “The safety, well-being and positive experience for all participants – especially our young players – is of the utmost importance.

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The Hershey Bears celebrate a goal by Louie Belpedio #7 that sparked a stuffed animal toss at the Giant Center on January 4, 2026 in Hershey, Pennsylvania (Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

“We are currently conducting an internal review to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the incident. This review will include gathering information from all relevant parties and assessing the situation thoroughly and responsibly.”

The club said it did not want to draw conclusions until the investigation was complete.

“At this time, we believe it is important to allow this process to take place before drawing any conclusions. We appreciate the patience and understanding of our families, partners and community as we work through this case.”

This isn’t the first time this season the Bears have had a “Mites on Ice” game.