Although the 2023-24 season was filled with many exhilarating moments, February is the month when the NGHL crowns its champions. As the season culminated in three weekends of determination, several teams rose to the occasion, etching their names in the annals of NGHL history.

Leading the charge in the NGHL Championship, Red Division, in a sweep across all age groups, were the formidable Lovell Academy Lions. Dominating their respective categories, the Lions showcased their prowess and teamwork, securing victories in the 14U, 16U, and 19U divisions. Their consistency and dedication throughout the season were truly commendable, setting a high standard for aspiring hockey players everywhere.

In the Futures Division, the Ironbound Elite emerged triumphant in the 12U Red division category, displaying a blend of talent and tenacity that propelled them to success. Similarly, Krivo Hockey demonstrated their skill and determination in the 12U Blue division, clinching the championship title and leaving a lasting impression on fans and competitors alike.

Shifting focus to the NGHL Championship, Blue Division, the Lake City White Caps stood tall as the champions in the 14U category, leaving no doubt about their capabilities on the ice. In the 16U division, the Coeur D’Alene Lady Thunder emerged as worthy champions and inspiring respect with their skillful play. Rounding off the champions in the Blue Division were the Middlesex Bears in the 19U category. Their grit was on full display as they battled their way to victory.

Congratulations to all the champions of the NGHL season. Beyond the thrill of victory and the glory of hoisting the championship trophy, these teams exemplified the values of sportsmanship, teamwork, and dedication that lie at the heart of youth hockey. Their achievements serve as a testament to the countless hours of hard work put in by players, coaches, and staff behind the scenes. As we celebrate these champions, we eagerly anticipate the continued development and success of these talented teams and the promising future that lies ahead for the NGHL.

We also recognize the dedication of the coaches, managers, and supporters who make moments like these possible. Their unwavering commitment to fostering a love for the game and providing a platform for young female athletes to excel is truly inspirational.

Blackstreet Capital Holdings affiliate Black Bear to manage arena in Detroit

Brighton, MI – An affiliate of Black Bear Sports Group, Inc. (“Black Bear”) has taken over the operations of the arena commonly known as the Kensington Valley Ice House (the “Arena”).  The Arena features three ice sheets, a bar/restaurant and a concessions area. The Arena is home to the Kensington Valley Hockey Association, Brighton High School, South Lyon Unified, and various other local high schools, clubs and adult hockey leagues. Black Bear, the largest owner-operator of ice rinks in the U.S., was founded by CEO Murry Gunty in 2015.

​“Detroit-East Lansing is a powerhouse hockey and figure skating market and we are proud to now operate four facilities and ten sheets of ice in the region,” said Murry Gunty, Founder and CEO of Black Bear. “Hockey is a way of life in Brighton and the surrounding communities, and we look forward to providing customers with a first-class facility for many years to come.”

The Arena is located east of Brighton, right off I-96, and is situated between Black Bear’s other facilities in East Lansing and Ann Arbor.  All existing programming at the Arena will continue as planned and Black Bear is pleased to retain the employees at the rink.

“We look forward to working with the clubs and organizations based out of Kensington Valley,” said Ryan Scott, Vice President at Black Bear. “KVHA and Brighton High School are very strong programs with robust community support. We look forward to sharing our hockey resources and supporting the winning traditions these clubs have established.”

The transaction closed on February 1st, 2024.

About Black Bear Sports Group, Inc.

Black Bear Sports Group, Inc. is a privately held company formed by Murry Gunty and Blackstreet Capital Holdings, LLC in 2015 that seeks investments in sports and entertainment facilities, teams, and youth sports events. Black Bear arenas are clean, professionally managed, and offer world-class recreational programs. Black Bear focuses on ice arenas in metropolitan areas with compelling demographics, markets with a National Hockey League club presence, and arenas with existing youth hockey clubs. Black Bear not only features the ability to acquire healthy and stable arenas but also the expertise required to turn around mismanaged or underperforming facilities. The largest owner/operator of ice arenas in the U.S., Black Bear’s footprint totals 37 facilities across the United States with 72 sheets of indoor ice, 4 indoor turf fields, 34 youth hockey clubs, four hockey leagues (Atlantic Hockey Federation, Atlantic Girls Hockey Federation, Tier 1 Hockey Federation, National Girls Hockey League), two tournament businesses (Defender Hockey Tournaments and The Show Tournaments), seven Junior “A” hockey franchises with membership in the United States Hockey League, North American Hockey League, USPHL NCDC, USPHL Premier and Elite, and the Eastern Hockey League, and Foundry Adult Hockey, the largest adult hockey organization in the USA.

National Girls Hockey League and Atlantic Girls Hockey Federation member Princeton Tiger Lilies’ General Manager, Shelley Looney, has recently been honored with induction into the prestigious Beanpot Hall of Fame. Hailing from Brownstown, MI, Looney is a distinguished figure in women’s hockey, having been a key member of the first US Women’s Olympic Hockey team that clinched gold in Nagano in 1998.

During her collegiate years at Northeastern University, Looney, who proudly wore the captain’s “C” for the Huskies in her senior year, showcased exceptional skill, amassing 68 goals and 59 assists for a remarkable 127 points in just 106 games. Her pivotal role in the 1994 Beanpot Championship against Harvard, where she contributed a goal and two assists, played a crucial part in the Huskies’ triumphant 6-2 victory, earning her the coveted Beanpot MVP title.

Recognizing her outstanding contributions, Looney was named to the Beanpot’s 40th Anniversary All-Women’s team in 2018. Adding to her accolades, she was formally inducted into the Hall of Fame last week, just before the 2024 Championship game. Remarkably, her alma mater once again emerged victorious in the tournament, echoing the triumph she and the 1994 Huskies achieved three decades earlier.

In Summer of 2023, Looney assumed the role of General Manager for the Princeton Tiger Lilies, marking a new chapter in her illustrious career. Prior to this, she had distinguished herself as a coach at Lindenwood University, University of Vermont, the Buffalo Beauts (NWHL/PHF) and various coaching roles within the Team USA Women’s National Team programs. As one of the trailblazers of women’s hockey in the United States, Looney boasts an impressive resume, including 1 Olympic Gold (where she scored the game-winning goal in the 1998 Gold Medal Game), 1 Olympic Silver, 7 World Championship Silvers, and 1 World Championship Gold. Her legacy continues to inspire and pave the way for future generations in the sport.

About Princeton Tiger Lilies
Since 1992, Princeton Tiger Lilies has fielded competitive Tier I and Tier II teams at various age levels. PTL is committed to providing elite hockey training, education, mentorship, and resources. They invest in player development at all levels, tailoring their programs specifically to their athletes to help them achieve their goals.

Many of their coaches are women who played at the highest levels, including NCAA Division I, professional, and the national team. They are passionate about growing the game and sharing their knowledge and experience to develop our players into strong, confident leaders.

Repost from MY Hockey Rankings, January 12, 2024

For our Week 17 Games of the Week, we will be tracking girls’ and boys’ tournaments in the Northeastern part of the United States. On the girls’ side, will be highlighting the National Girls Hockey League (NGHL) MLK Winter Classic outside of Philadelphia. The tournament includes teams in the NGHL Red Division at the 14U, 16U, and 19U age levels.

The NGHL Red Division is comprised of USA Girls Tier 1 and top Tier 2 programs. Celebrating its fifth year, the NGHL is dedicated to the promotion and growth of girls’ ice hockey programs across the United States and supports its member clubs’ vision for player-focused development and progression to higher levels. Member and guest teams compete in league play, showcases, and exposure clinics from age 10U through 19U.

This weekend’s NGHL Red MLK Winter Classic gets underway Saturday and runs through Monday at the Revolution Ice Gardens and Bucks County Ice in Warminster, Pa. Both of these facilities are serviced by LiveBarn, so all of the games should be available to watch live and on-demand via webstream.

We are going to be focusing on the 14U Division for the NGHL MLK Winter Classic. This year’s NGHL Red Division MLK Winter Classic features more than 50 games being played by more than 20 teams Saturday through Monday at the 14U, 16U, and 19U levels. For our Week 17 Games of the Week, we are focusing on the 14U Division at the NGHL MLK Winter Classic. At the 14U level, two top-10 Tier 1 National Bound teams will be competing along with the Nos. 18, 28, and 40 Tier 1 teams and the No. 9 Tier 2 club. Play gets underway at 8:30 a.m. Saturday for the 14U teams. Here is a look at the weekend’s top matchups:

Saturday’s Top NGHL 14U Games

In one of the weekend’s matchups, the No. 9 Jr. Flyers tied the game in the third period on Caroline Coen’s power-play goal then won it on Allyson Dembzynski’s shootout goal as goalie Kaitlyn Larson stopped all three Valley attempts. Ashylyn Jacobs and Madeline Allen also scored for the Jr. Flyers, while Cadence Crowley, Lauren Dockray, and Brooke Carlson tallied for the Jr. Warriors. 

In a matchup of top-10 Tier 1 National Bound USA Girls teams, Lovell sprinted to a 3-0 first-period lead but needed Aubryn Monter’s game-winning shorthanded toal with 1:38 left in regulation after the Jr. Flyers stormed back to tie the game at 4 with 4:12 remaining. Trailing 4-1 late in the second period, Philadelphia got three-straight goals from Allyson Dembzynski, Ashlyn Jacobs, and Madeline Allen to set up Monter’s heroics. Lauren Steward also scored for the Jr. Flyers. Sydney Stoughton, Montana Morris, Grace Hilderbrandt, and Annabelle Lovell scored for the Lions. Peyton Scott stopped 14 shots to earn the win in goal for Lovell, while Ella Rajnys had 27 saves for the Jr. Flyers. 

Monday’s Top NGHL 14U Games

Reposted by Black Bear Youth Hockey Foundation

In a significant stride towards fostering inclusivity in youth hockey, the Black Bear Youth Hockey Foundation proudly announces its scholarship recipients for the 2023-24 season, providing a total of $44,900 in financial aid to 64 deserving children. Established in 2020, the foundation aims to eliminate financial barriers hindering youth hockey participation, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to experience the camaraderie and life lessons that the sport offers. Through individual grants and sponsored programs, the foundation strives to ease the financial stress many families face in affording equipment and ice time. Youth hockey, known for cultivating friendships, teamwork, and accountability, becomes an accessible avenue for all, nurturing a lifelong passion for the sport.

Stories of Triumph and Dedication:

Michael Edelstein: A dedicated player on the Grundy Senators 12U hockey team, Michael Edelstein’s journey into hockey began at the age of three. Despite financial challenges, Michael’s single mom supports his passion, and the Black Bear Hockey Foundation scholarship serves as a crucial support, enabling him to continue thriving on the ice.

The Turpin Family: June, James, and Jackson Turpin of the Maryland Jr. Black Bears express their deep gratitude as recipients of the Black Bear Hockey Foundation scholarship. Despite facing financial strains due to their dad’s surgery, the scholarship has allowed them to persist in their love for hockey.

Noah Krasner: A devoted player for the Igloo Jaguars since the age of five, Noah Krasner considers hockey more than just a game—it’s his life. The scholarship, received last year, proved transformative as Noah moved to the 16u level, enhancing both his skills and maturity. Noah’s unwavering work ethic and commitment make him a deserving candidate for ongoing support.

Paulina Rucz: Overcoming the challenges of a rare heart defect, Paulina Rucz, a resilient player on the 16U Elite Islanders Girls team, has defied the odds. The scholarship, received last year, eased financial strain for her mother amid layoffs. Paulina’s remarkable achievements, including MVP and Top Scorer, reflect her dedication, and she looks forward to the continued support of the scholarship in pursuing her dreams in the National Women’s Hockey League.

On this Giving Tuesday, consider contributing to the Black Bear Youth Hockey Foundation to help future hockey players. Your donation can make a lasting impact, creating opportunities for aspiring athletes to engage in the transformative power of sport.

Scholarship Recipients
Michael Edelstein
Kamil Szumigraj
Shawn Gearl
Chase Clouser
Hunter Brown
Paulina Rucz
Isaiah Scanlon
Bryston Elgalady
Jean-Paul Dominguez
Alexander Udal
Ivan Shuminski
Chyna Taylor
Jack McKenzie
Jack Doran
Noah Krasner
Nicolette Gentile
Evan Elias
Gemma Graeff
Yahor Putau
Christian Blood
Leland Williams
David Dziomba
Richard G Volgraf (Jr.)
Frank Rosenberry
Xavier Jamison
Kele Aragon
Carlo Pietroboni
Ella Doran
Peyton Hull
Aidan Shine
Braydon Hammond
Ara Landskroener
Antons Podskocijs
Jackson Turpin
James Turpin
June Turpin
Jan Eschler
Brayden Lodise
Amelia Smith
Alexander Kuznikov
Ethan Kotecki
Austin Kotecki
Noah Kotecki
Liam Garten
Camerom Feeley
Avah Williams
Mark Gusev
Chloe Makinson
Draek Davis
Noah Desotti
Keegan Champagne
Preston Champagne
Javion Drupp

The NGHL Fall Classic, Futures West Tournament, held in Omaha over the Columbus Day weekend, was a remarkable display of talent, teamwork, and sheer determination, as our youngest players had a chance to compete at their level and gain valuable experience. It was also the perfect opportunity to shine – the event saw several sensational hat tricks.

12U Division 

Regan Erickson
Cheryl Gann
Addison Ties
Parker Vecellio
Penny Phelps

10U Division 

Genevieve Shuman
Hazel Rinkes
Madison Gover

The NGHL Fall Classic, Futures West was a celebration of youth hockey talent. The hat tricks scored by these young players exemplified the potential and promise of the sport. As these talented athletes continue to develop and hone their skills, they are sure to make a significant impact on the world of hockey in the years to come.

Read more on NGHL NEWS.

Excitement is in the air as the National Girls Hockey League (NGHL) welcomes 15 new members to its prestigious ranks. With each new addition, the league continues to grow, making strides in promoting women’s hockey and providing a platform for talented players to showcase their skills. This season we extend a warm welcome to Biggby Coffee, Black Bears, Fort Erie Intl Academy, Philadelphia Jr Flyers, Rochester Jr Americans, San Diego Angles, Winchendon School, Krivo Hockey, Montgomery Youth Hockey, Danbury Hattricks, HTX Storm, Lake City White Caps, NYC Cyclones, Valley Jr Warriors, and Queen City Royals as they embark on their NGHL journey. 

Let’s take a closer look at each team and their contributions to the league.

1. Biggby Coffee

Biggby Coffee AAA Hockey (formerly known as Meijer AAA Hockey) is part of the West Michigan Elite Hockey Association, a Tier 1 affiliate in Michigan, and was started 15 years ago. It has made its purpose to develop and advance Michigan players to the highest level. Biggby AAA has placed over 100 boys and girls in Junior and college hockey respectively, making it one of the most successful youth hockey programs in Michigan. 

2. Black Bears

The Tier I Girls Junior Program is where student-athletes across North America come together to live and play in a dynamic, supportive community. The program has a two-fold goal: to help student-athletes move on to NCAA Division I, Division III, and top academic ACHA programs, while also providing them with the education, communication, and confidence-building tools they need to succeed on this journey. 

3. Fort Erie Intl Academy

Fort Erie International Academy (FEIA) is a beautiful Canadian 6-12 private boarding school, located minutes from the USA and Niagara Falls. FEIA is home to a rich and diverse student body seeking academic and athletic excellence and prides itself on its certified teachers, world-class facilities, elite athletics, and inclusive ethos.

4. Philadelphia Jr Flyers

f you plan on playing College, USHL, or any higher level of play, the Jr. Flyers teams are the place to be. The nationally recognized Jr. Flyers Program has a rich hockey history, they bring a sense of tradition and passion to the league.

5. Rochester Jr Americans

The Jr Americans showcase some of the most promising young talents in girls’ hockey. Their commitment to player development and sportsmanship aligns perfectly with the NGHL’s core values.

6. San Diego Angels

The San Diego Angels are a nationally competitive, non-profit girls’ ice hockey organization focused on developing strong players, good citizens, and great students. The club’s goal is to prepare all of our players for the next level, whatever that may be (NCAA or otherwise). The club demands a positive environment for all of our families and have an expectation for a high commitment level.  

7. Winchendon School

At The Winchendon School, the student-athletes find success on and off the ice as well-rounded, confident, and self-reliant young adults prepared for the rigors of college academics and athletics.

8. Krivo Hockey

Krivo School of Hockey is a premier destination for players of all ages and skill levels seeking an exceptional learning experience. With an unwavering focus on pure skill development, the hockey school, camps, and private sessions offer unparalleled challenges and growth. 

9. Montgomery Youth Hockey

MYHA is the largest ice hockey club in the Washington DC area and one of the largest ice hockey Clubs on the East Coast. MYHA aims to offer young female hockey players opportunities to compete at the level that is commensurate with their development and desired commitment as a hockey player, from beginner to college-bound, in a community that fosters camaraderie, a lifetime love of the game, and outstanding sportsmanship. MYHA and its board are committed to growing the club in order to offer the breadth of programs needed to achieve its mission.

10. Danbury Hattricks

Danbury Elite Girls Hattrick provides opportunities for girls of all levels to participate in the exciting and challenging sport of hockey. Hockey requires not only skill and strength, but also strategic thinking and the ability to work effectively as part of a team, and their organization is dedicated to helping girls develop these qualities while improving their fitness, strength, and coordination. With the phenomenal growth of girls’ hockey in recent years, Danbury understands the importance of providing a supportive and social environment where girls can thrive both on and off the ice.

11. HTX Storm

The Houston Girls Hockey Association (HGHA) / HTX Storm was formed in 2021 as the only girls’ hockey organization in Houston, Texas. The HGHA is intently focused on development in a fun and safe environment, creating a positive culture that breeds enthusiasm for the sport, and providing pathways for all girls to pursue their hockey dreams.

12. Lake City White Caps

The Lake City Whitecaps are part of the Wisconsin Amateur Hockey Association and serve as the girl’s 14U program under Sauk Prairie Youth Hockey.  Their girls’ program started in 2017 and has quickly grown to become one of the largest in the state.  They look forward to competitive play and a great season with the NGHL.

13. NYC Cyclones

The NYC Cyclones are New York City’s premier youth hockey organization. Cyclones teams compete in tournaments and college/prep school showcases across the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic areas, and beyond depending on a team’s level of play. Our Girls’ teams have participated in New York State and National Championships with our 2022-23 Girls 19U Tier II semi-finalist in the National Championships.

14. Queen City Royals

The Queen City Royals Hockey Program creates a positive environment where young athletes build confidence through the game of hockey. They foster a culture where the demands are physical, mental, and at times emotional. They hold their athletes accountable to their coaches, teammates, and ultimately themselves as they develop hockey players to be the best they can be on the ice and within the community.

15. Valley Jr Warriors

The Valley Junior Warriors program is dedicated to providing a highly competitive and supportive environment where players of all age groups can maximize the development of their individual athletic skills. The program is able to accomplish this by offering one of the most comprehensive developmental programs in the Northeast.  It is managed by a proven and experienced coaching staff that includes former professional and top collegiate players, as well as current NHL scouts.

As the National Girls Hockey League opens its arms to 15 new teams, the future of girls’ hockey looks brighter than ever. Each team brings a unique set of skills, values, and perspectives, enriching the league’s diversity. We look forward to an exhilarating season of competitive hockey, team spirit, and unforgettable moments. To the new members of the NGHL, we say, “Welcome aboard, and may you thrive and make history in this incredible journey!” Let’s drop the puck and get this thrilling season started!

Read more on NGHL NEWS.

Under the steadfast leadership of Leslie Case and the team including Jeremy Dallow, John Opie, Andrew Coyne, and Julia Duncan, the NGHL has quickly established itself as the nationwide league for talented female athletes aged 10U through 19U at Tier I and Tier II levels. The league’s members have the privilege of participating in showcases that provide invaluable exposure to college scouts, culminating with highly anticipated league championships held in February. These events are well organized and held at top venues and desirable scouting locations, ensuring maximum visibility for aspiring players.

Reflecting on the achievements of the past five years, Murry Gunty, Founder and CEO of Black Bear Sports Group, acknowledged the significant impact of the NGHL in the hockey community. “Congratulations to Leslie Case and her team for a tremendous first five years,” said Gunty. “The NGHL serves a significant role in growing the girls’ game across the nation. The NGHL events are well organized with impeccable communication and have proven to raise our member’s profile nationally.”

Through its unwavering dedication, the NGHL has inspired countless young girls to pursue their dreams on the ice. The league’s commitment to providing a competitive and supportive environment has resulted in the development of well-rounded athletes who embody the values of sportsmanship, teamwork, and perseverance.

As the NGHL embarks on its fifth season, it remains steadfast in the mission of its founder Kathryn Kehoe to empower girls in hockey and elevate the sport to new heights. The league will continue to prioritize player development and expand its reach to more communities to shape the future of girls’ hockey.

Blackstreet Capital Holdings affiliate Black Bear to manage arena in Detroit

Hazel Park, MI – An affiliate of Black Bear Sports Group, Inc. (“Black Bear”) has taken over the operations of the arena commonly known as Hazel Park Viking Ice Arena (the “Arena”).  The Arena features two ice sheets, a gym, and a concessions area. The Arena is home to the Little Caesars Hockey Club, International Stars Youth Hockey, the University of Detroit Jesuit High School, and various other local high schools and clubs. Black Bear, the largest owner-operator of ice rinks in the U.S., was founded by CEO Murry Gunty in 2015.
​
​“We are excited to announce Black Bear’s continued expansion in Detroit,” said Murry Gunty, Founder and CEO of Black Bear. “The City of Hazel Park was fantastic to work with on this deal and we are looking forward to expanding operations and programming so the rink continues to serve as an important resource for the community.”

The Arena opened in 1999 and is centrally located near the intersection of Interstates 75 and 696. All existing programming will continue as planned and Black Bear is pleased to retain the employees at the rink.  However, with the strong, central location in Detroit metro area, Black Bear expects this rink to serve as an important hub for events including hockey tournaments and showcases.

“We plan to make some improvements during the first year of operations,” said Ryan Scott, Vice President at Black Bear. “Many skaters rely on this rink for games, practices, and family fun, and we expect our operating team to begin implementing more introductory programming while maintaining quality ice and amenities for the Arena’s customers.”

The transaction closed on June 29, 2023.

About Black Bear Sports Group, Inc.
Black Bear Sports Group, Inc. is a privately held company formed by Murry Gunty and Blackstreet Capital Holdings, LLC in 2015 that seeks investments in sports and entertainment facilities, teams, and youth sports events. Black Bear arenas are clean, professionally managed, and offer world-class recreational programs. Black Bear focuses on ice arenas in metropolitan areas with compelling demographics, markets with a National Hockey League club presence, and arenas with existing youth hockey clubs. Black Bear not only features the ability to acquire healthy and stable arenas but also the expertise required to turn around mismanaged or underperforming facilities. The largest owner/operator of ice arenas in the U.S., Black Bear’s footprint totals 36 facilities across the United States with 68 sheets of indoor ice, four indoor turf fields, 34 youth hockey clubs, four hockey leagues (Atlantic Hockey Federation, Atlantic Girls Hockey Federation, Tier 1 Hockey Federation, National Girls Hockey League), a tournament business (Defender Hockey Tournaments), seven Junior “A” hockey franchises with membership in the United States Hockey League, North American Hockey League, USPHL NCDC, USPHL Premier and Elite, and the Eastern Hockey League, and Foundry Adult Hockey, the largest adult hockey organization in the USA.​

Repost from BBSG

Black Bear Youth Hockey Foundation was formed in 2020 to remove financial barriers to youth hockey. Through individual grants and sponsored programming, the foundation’s goal is to increase American youth hockey participation ​and ease the financial stress that many families undertake to afford equipment and ice time. Youth hockey cultivates friendships, teamwork and accountability. Most importantly, players develop a lifetime passion for the sport. Join us today and donate as we lend a hand to the next generation of hockey players to create opportunities for all children to play ice hockey.

Scholarship applications will open May 1st, 2023 for the upcoming 2023-24 hockey season.

First round applications will be open until June 15th and recipients will be notified by July 10th. Second round for players trying out in the Fall will be August 1st – September 15th and recipients will be notified by October 10th.

Who can apply?

Click here to apply