Today was the kickoff for the first official EA sponsored Madden Challenge in Canada and the country's fourth overall. This year, the winner of the Canadian finals will fly to Hawaii and take part in the official tournament hosted at the Pro Bowl on February 10th for a chance to win $100,000.

Regional winners came in from all parts of Canada to participate in the event but before the tournament in the morning the gamers were treated to a dinner with some of the NFL's top players, Chad Johnson and Larry Fitzgerald.

Regional winners were all in high spirits by the prospect of winning a trip to Hawaii by beating out the largest field in Canadian Madden history, with 512 gamers ready to compete. Said Derrick Roe, winner of the Calgary, Alberta qualifier, "You're going to want to keep your eye on me tomorrow...I'm going to be celebrating a victory tomorrow night." Derrick will utilize the Dallas Cowboys as he looks to advance his way through the tournament. Nick Robertson winner of the Whitby, Ontario qualifier was equally confident. Robertson will command the Indianapolis Colts and will look to overpower the opposition with the efficient Colts offense and well-fitted playbook.

While there was a great deal of confidence in the room, there are a few players who are receiving the respect of even the best players in Canada. James Battle Jr., son of the former Minnesota Vikings player, thoroughly dominated the Edminton, Alberta qualifier by mercying every player he faced.

Jamal George, last year's Canadian champion, has yet to register for the event but a walk-in spot has been reserved for him and tournament officials are expecting him to attend. Last year, George won the Canadian final by beating out Matt Karam in the finals in a close game. George went on to destroy the American winner, 49-7, in Hawaii. This year, Canada will be part of the main tournament, meaning that George and the rest of Canada will have a chance to win the $100,000 overall prize.