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
- Kansas City Storm Cheryl Gann
- Kansas City Storm Addison Ties
- HHHA Lady Jaguars Regan Erickson
- Omaha Lady Lancers Penny Phelps
- Krivo HC Parker Vecellio
10U Division
- HHHA Lady Jaguars Genevieve Shuman
- HHHA Lady Jaguars Sydney Selden
- Kansas City Storm Hazel Rinkes
- Kansas City Storm 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.
The Buffalo State women’s hockey team demonstrated their dedication to growing the game and empowering young female athletes by leading NGHL’s free girls’ hockey clinic in celebration of IIHF Girls Hockey Weekend, on October 7, 2023.
With enthusiasm and skill, these accomplished players acted as inspiring mentors for the next generation of female hockey stars. Their expertise and guidance on the ice, combined with their passion for the sport, created an inclusive and welcoming environment for girls 8U-12U to develop their skills, fostering a sense of camaraderie and empowerment.
This initiative not only showcased the team’s commitment to the sport but also highlighted the significance of gender equality in the world of hockey, making the event a resounding success and a testament to the positive impact of IIHF Girls Hockey Weekend.
About the World Girls’ Ice Hockey Weekend. The World Girls’ Ice Hockey Weekend is a global awareness campaign for girls to try out hockey as a new sport. Thousands of participants took part since the start in 2011. Women’s ice hockey is one of the fastest growing sports in the world thanks to events like this one and similar programs that are being run in many countries.
About Buffalo State Women’s Ice Hockey. Buffalo State Women’s Hockey team is an NCAA Division III team playing in the NEWHL conference.
Over the Columbus Day weekend, the NGHL hosted four distinct competitive events that catered to hockey players of all ages and skill levels and welcomed teams – 1300+ players – from 21 states – California to Massachusetts, Ontario (not a state!) to Florida.
Fall Classic: The Fall Classic in Syracuse, a staple in our Red Division calendar, showcased the highest level of competition in girls’ hockey, bringing together talented teams from across the northeast. The games were intense, and the players demonstrated exceptional skill and determination. A Michigan by Lily Winckler, Winchendon 16U lit up social media.
Columbus Day Showcase: Our third year in Pittsburgh, athletes at this event demonstrate their readiness, dedication, and teamwork. With players from multiple states, teams brought their unique style and approach to the game. The first Michigan of the weekend came from Coeur D’Alene 16U player Jessica Bobiles.
Congratulations to these division winners:
Fall Classic Futures East and West: For our up-and-coming stars, the Fall Classic Futures events are the perfect opportunity to shine. With an East – Buffalo – and West – Omaha – division, young players had a chance to compete at their level and gain valuable experience. These events foster a sense of camaraderie and growth among our youngest players.
Congratulations to the East winners:
Congratulations to the West winners:
Labor Day weekend in Connecticut brought an electrifying surge of excitement as the National Girls Hockey League (NGHL) hosted its Labor Day Challenge from September 2nd to September 4th, 2023. The NGHL, known for promoting and developing female ice hockey, welcomed over 55 teams and more than 1,000 talented players from across the United States.
Labor Day Challenge was a melting pot of hockey talent, with teams hailing from various states, including Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Arizona, North Carolina, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Florida, and New Hampshire. This diverse participation emphasized the universal appeal of ice hockey and the growth of women’s hockey across the nation.
The tournament featured players ranging from 12U to high school seniors, ensuring that every level of talent had a chance to shine on the ice. Labor Day Challenge was a platform for aspiring female hockey players to exhibit their prowess on the rink. It wasn’t just about winning; it was about the camaraderie, determination, and sheer love for the game that shone through every player. Spectators witnessed skill, teamwork, and strategic thinking throughout the weekend.
Congratulations to these division winners!!
The NGHL Labor Day Challenge has been a pivotal event in promoting girl’s hockey. By offering a stage for young and talented players to compete, the NGHL fosters a sense of empowerment among female athletes. The tournament inspires girls to dream big and pursue their passion for hockey, knowing that they are part of a growing and supportive community.
LDC highlighted the growing prominence of women’s ice hockey and served as an inspiration for young girls with dreams of making it big in the sport. As we look forward to future editions of this prestigious tournament, we can only anticipate even greater moments of skill, dedication, and the unwavering spirit of female athletes. The NGHL Labor Day Challenge is more than just a hockey tournament; it’s a celebration of the passion and talent that make women’s hockey an extraordinary and growing force in the world of sports.
The NGHL (National Girls Hockey League) Dawg Daze of Summer is an annual event that ignites the summer heat with the cool thrill of ice hockey. In 2023, this high-profile showcase took place from August 25th to 27th in Connecticut. With a turnout of 60 teams and over 1,100 talented players hailing from various corners of the United States, Dawg Daze lived up to its reputation as one of the premier events in girls’ youth hockey.
The NGHL Dawg Daze of Summer has evolved into a truly regional event. This year, players from Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Arizona, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Florida, New Hampshire, Michigan, and California descended upon Connecticut to participate in this showcase. The diversity of participating teams and players adds a unique flavor to the showcase, making it a melting pot of talent from coast to coast.
One of the most compelling aspects of Dawg Daze is its commitment to fostering and promoting young talent. For many of these girls, this showcase represents a pivotal moment in their hockey careers. College scouts and recruiters eagerly attend, scouting for the next generation of stars to join their programs.
The level of competition at the Dawg Daze of Summer is nothing short of exceptional. Players bring their A-game, pushing themselves to the limits to showcase their skills in front of the attentive eyes of college coaches. The chance to play against top-notch teams from across the country not only fosters growth and development but also provides unforgettable experiences and memories that will last a lifetime. Check out our Instagram Story Highlights for pictures and video!
The NGHL Dawg Daze of Summer is not just about the games on the ice; it’s also about building camaraderie and forming lasting bonds. Many players and their families took advantage of the opportunity to visit some of the many Connecticut college campuses that offer women’s hockey.
With its diverse range of participants and intense competition, Dawg Daze once again demonstrated the depth and breadth of talent in girls’ youth hockey. Beyond the competition, the event showcased the power of sports to bring communities together and inspire the next generation of athletes. The 12U division runs as a tournament at Dawg Daze – congratulations to Champions Valley Jr Warriors and Finalist Ironbound Elite.
As we look forward to future editions of this special showcase, we can only anticipate more exciting moments, thrilling games, and the emergence of new hockey stars who will carry the torch for girls’ youth hockey in the United States. The NGHL Dawg Daze of Summer is indeed a true celebration of the sport and an event that leaves an indelible mark on all those who participate.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
Club to relocate to Ann Arbor and operate boys and girls AAA Tier 1, Tier 2 Travel & Tier 3 House Hockey
Ann Arbor, MI – The Ann Arbor Ice Cube (AAIC) has been named the new home of the Biggby Coffee Hockey Club beginning Spring 2023. The new club will offer youth hockey teams for all youth players at every skill level, Instructional, House (T3), Travel (T2), and AAA (T1). Before this merger, Biggby rostered both boys’ and girls’ teams at the AAA- T1 level. With this new partnership, all levels of youth hockey in Ann Arbor will be rostered under the Biggby Hockey Club name. As part of a new partnership between AAIC’s new operator, Black Bear Sports Group (BBSG), and the Biggby club, the arena has hired full-time staff to bolster its year-round hockey programs and offerings. Beginning with the 2023-24 season, players rostered under Ann Arbor Amateur Hockey Association (AAAHA) Travel and House teams will roster under Biggby Coffee Hockey Club. AAIC remains the home ice arena of Ann Arbor residents and current AAAHA players. Current players will be directed to AAA and Travel tryouts or House registrations. Peggy Costello, current Executive Director of AAAHA will transition to a new role as Director of Hockey Operations for AAIC and the Biggby Coffee Youth Club, and together with Tom Berry, Executive Director of Biggby AAA Hockey, will lead all hockey operations for the club and the rink.
The expanded Biggby Coffee Hockey Club is projected to have 600+ members comprising of Learn to Play Programs, Introductory Leagues, and all three levels (AAA, Travel, and House) of boys and girls hockey providing the community with hockey opportunities for all ages and skill levels. New jerseys will be provided for all members. Other key highlights of the partnership include:
- Exposure for Tier 2 Travel & House players to Tier 1 coaches and trainers
- Full-time, professional staff managing year-round hockey programs.
- Consolidation improves the player pool and consistency of level of play.
- Tier 1 advancement opportunities in the same arena for boys and girls
- Increased off-season programming and skill development opportunities at the rink.
- Black Bear Sports Group’s Free Gear “Rookie Program” for first-time players.
- For players with college hockey ambition, access, and exposure to Black Bear’s affiliated Junior Hockey clubs: Youngstown Phantoms (USHL), Maryland Black Bears (NAHL), Mercer Chiefs (NCDC), and Team Maryland (EHL)
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 under-performing facilities. The largest owner/operator of ice arenas in the U.S., Black Bear’s footprint totals 34 facilities across the United States with 64 sheets of indoor ice, four indoor turf fields, 31 youth hockey clubs, four hockey leagues (Atlantic Hockey Federation, Atlantic Girls Hockey Federation, Tier 1 Hockey Federation, and Foundry Adult Hockey, two tournament businesses, Defender Hockey Tournaments, and the National Girls Hockey League and four Junior “A” hockey franchises with membership in the United States Hockey League, North American Hockey League, United States Premier Hockey League NCDC and the Eastern Hockey League.
About Tom Berry, Executive Director of Biggby AAA Hockey – Tom Berry has been involved in Hockey since 2001 coaching from the mite house level to coaching and scouting in Junior Hockey. He has served as the Director of WMEHC now Biggby Coffee AAA Hockey since 2007. He has been a Director at MAHA for the past five years.
About Peggy Costello, Incoming Director of Hockey Operations – Peggy brings 15 years of experience in youth hockey operations, most recently serving as the Executive Director of the Ann Arbor Amateur Hockey Association for the past 7 years. Peggy also currently serves as a District Director for the Michigan Amateur Hockey Association.
About Biggby Coffee Hockey Club – Biggby Coffee AAA Hockey which is the sole sponsor of WMEHC, a Tier 1 affiliate in Michigan, was started 15 years ago and has made its purpose to develop and advance Michigan players to the Highest level. Biggby AAA has placed over 100 boys in Girls in Junior and college hockey respectively making it one of the most successful youth hockey programs in Michigan. Our mission is to provide Elite youth boys and girls hockey players in West Michigan and the out-state communities the opportunity to maximize his/her potential. The West Michigan Elite Hockey Club will provide a competitive learning atmosphere where players, coaches, families, and organizations are committed to long-term development.
About Ann Arbor Ice Cube – Ann Arbor Ice Cube, owned by Black Bear Sports Group, Inc. is a multi-sheet facility located in Ann Arbor, Michigan also known as A2Ice3. The arena measures around 160,000 square feet and includes two NHL-sized ice rinks and one OLY-sized ice rink. The facility has multiple tenants as well as a concessions stand. The arena provides a home for various ice skating and hockey programs, regular public skating sessions, the Ann Arbor Adult Hockey League, and is the home arena for the Biggby Coffee Hockey Club, Ann Arbor Figure Skating Club, Perani’s Hockey World, Michigan Medicine MedSport, Advantage Strength & Conditioning, Huron HS Hockey Team, Pioneer HS Hockey Team, Saline HS Hockey Team, Father Gabriel Richard/Greenhills HS Hockey Team, EMU Club Hockey Team, and Wolverine Sports Club Speed Skating. For more, go to www.a2ice3.com.
Congratulations to the NGHL members who made it to USA Hockey’s Nationals Championships, March 30 – April 3, 2023.
- Florida Alliance, 16UAAA
- Florida Alliance, 19UAAA
- Princeton Tiger Lilies, 14UAA
- New Jersey Bandits, 16UAA
- St. James Hockey, 16UAA
- Utah Lady Grizzlies, 16UAA
- Philadelphia Little Flyers, 19UAA
- Syracuse Valley Eagles, 19UAA
- Arizona Kachinas, 19UAA
CONGRATULATIONS TO THESE USA CHAMPIONS AND FINALISTS
The Blue Division Championships were held in St. Louis, MP over the weekend of February 18-20, 2023. Games were held at the beautiful Centene Community Ice Center, our 3rd year at this stunning facility. Our Members-only event hosted 18 teams in the 14U, 16U, and 19U divisions. We saw some exciting hockey over the weekend with teams from Arizona, Idaho, Nebraska, Texas, Utah, Ohio, Florida, Virginia, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts. It is always gratifying to see such passionate and talented players! We appreciate that hockey travel can be a lot and appreciate our team’s commitment to the NGHL.
CONGRATULATIONS TO THESE 2022-23 CHAMPIONS!
TOP PERFORMER
The NGHL acknowledges Top Performers at each age division for NGHL Members at our events.
PATHWAY TO COLLEGE
A big THANK YOU to Lindenwood ACHA Coach Andrew Miller, who joined us to talk about the pathway to college hockey.
There were documenting the event on social and have lots of great pictures in our Instagram Highlights – Blue Cup 2023. Take a look.
Lastly, we’d like to thank our event sponsors Biosteel. BioSteel was very generous in providing sugar-free sports hydration mix, water bottles, and towels for the athletes. They’ve also offered our community 30% off all products at biosteel.com. Use code: NGHL30 when ordering online BioSteel.com.
Event apparel is available for purchase online…
