New HDC San Diego training program aiming to develop, keep homegrown talent in SoCal
BY MATT MACKINDER In yet another sign that the game of hockey is growing in California, the new HDC San Diego association is now up and running. HDC San Diego is a new hockey training program that is owned by Ken and Kelly Baker with Tori Pizzuto serving as the hockey operations manager. Ken Baker said being part of this new initiative was a no-brainer. “Quite honestly, I’d like to give promising local players a new and powerful opportunity to reach higher levels in technique development right here at home,” said Baker. “Many players from San Diego leave the area to pursue training centers around the country. I’d like to raise the overall level of play here by keeping that talent around and helping to raise a new generation of players and expand the game in San Diego. “The process to get to this point has been steady and methodical. My wife Kelly and I partnered with HDTS (Hockey Development Training Systems, based in Slovakia) in 2022 with a mutually-beneficial agreement. While HDC San Di-
The HDC San Diego team is, left to right, Ken Baker, Kelly Baker, Tori Pizzuto, James Spaargaren, and Brandon Richardson. ego benefits from a fully-equipped world-class training center, HDTS now gains a key spot in a beautiful destination city in North America to showcase all of its patented technology to other customers. They help us
by sharing key strategies and proven methods, we help them to establish a presence in the U.S.” Pizzuto, who has previous work experience with the Los Angeles Kings, LA Lions, San Diego Angels
and Ontario Jr. Reign, noted she is back in her comfort zone. “I had been working in the production world for a few years now, kind of always peeking over the fence at re-entering the hockey world, whether in coaching or management,” Pizzuto said. “I saw a post about HDC and was instantly curious. Ken and Kelly reached out to me the day I applied, which was exciting. After meeting with them and hearing about the center, their goals and the overall philosophy of HDC San Diego, I was hooked. I was honored when they offered me the hockey operations manager position and could not be more excited to be back working in hockey, my true love. “HDC is designed to work with all ages, all genders. As long as they have the ability to skate on the skatemill, we can go as young the capability and the same goes for adult players. Our goal is ultimately to serve the community of players in San Diego that are looking to get to the next level, whether that be AAA, high school, college, pro, etc., but
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Photo/graphic/Anaheim Ducks
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For Lakewood native, Team USA standout Hensley, new PWHL women’s pro league an exciting opportunity
BY MATT MACKINDER COLORADO HOCKEY HUB Since graduating college in 2016, Lakewood native Nicole Hensley has found her way on to many USA Hockey women’s national teams and playing in women’s professional leagues. Now, she’ll be a part of the new PWHL Minnesota franchise after being selected Sept. 18 in the second round (12th overall) of the inaugural PWHL Draft. “The draft took place in Toronto (last) Monday, and a large group of players attended,” Hensley said. “It was a historic day for the sport. I was really excited to be drafted by Minnesota. I love Minnesota and am
Colorado product Nicole Hensley has been a USA Hockey mainstay over the years. Photo/Chris Mast
excited to be here. I think we have an exciting team with lots of local ties. “I think our roster is very exciting. We have some great veterans in Lee (Stecklein), Kelly (Pannek), and Kendall (Coyne Schofield). We have some great young talent with Taylor (Heise) and Grace (Zumwinkle). It is a good mix. I think we will have a team capable of making a good run at this thing.” Hensley, who played NCAA Division I hockey at Lindenwood from 2012-16, also represented the United States at the 2018 and 2022 Winter Olympics. “It’s an honor to have been able
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Hockey season is in full swing, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t take time to remember a California hockey pioneer who tragically lost his life last month. Nic Kerdiles was only 29 when he was in a motorcycle accident in Nashville, a city where he had been living and selling real estate since hanging up his skates after the 2018-19 season. Kerdiles, an Irvine, Calif., native, made history when he suited up for his hometown Anaheim Ducks during the 2016-17 season.
“We’re heartbroken to hear the news about Nic Kerdiles,” the Ducks posted on social media Sept. 23. “An Irvine native, Nic became the first player Mackinder from Orange County to play for the Ducks, in 2017. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies go out to his family and loved ones.” The Ducks drafted Kerdiles in the second round
(36th overall) of the 2012 NHL Draft and he spent two seasons with the team, appearing in three games combined in the 2016-17 and 2017-18 seasons. He was traded in 2018 to the Winnipeg Jets and later played for the AHL’s Manitoba Moose. He also played for the AHL’s San Diego Gulls and Norfolk Admirals after spending two seasons at NCAA Division I Wisconsin and a pair of seasons with USA Hockey’s NTDP. From all of us here with
Rubber Hockey, Godspeed. Life is fragile and as we learn all too often, way too short. Keep enjoying that time at the rink and to and from games. Just live life to the fullest. Nothing in this life is a guarantee. As always, remember to keep supporting Rubber Hockey! Contact me any time at (248) 890-3944 (call/text) and by email at matt@rubberhockey.com. Looking forward to hearing from you!
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Las Vegas’ Orleans Arena to host 2024 Ice Breaker college hockey tournament Minnesota will host the 2024 men’s Ice Breaker Tournament at Orleans Arena in Las Vegas. Air Force, Massachusetts and Omaha will also compete in the event, scheduled for Oct. 11-12, 2024. “Las Vegas hosting the 2024 Ice Breaker is another example of the impressive growth of hockey, and particularly college hockey, in our country,” said College Hockey Inc. executive director Mike Snee. “It is important to continue showcasing NCAA hockey to newer audiences whenever possible.” The Ice Breaker Tournament, which began in 1997, traditionally marks the beginning of the NCAA Division I men’s hockey season. The event brings together four teams, typically from different conferences, and
is administered by College Hockey Inc. on behalf of the Hockey Commissioners Association. While it’s the first time the Ice Breaker will be played in Las Vegas, the city and Orleans Arena recently showcased NCAA Division I men’s hockey in 2018 when Minnesota faced North Dakota in front of a capacity crowd in the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game. “Las Vegas has become a standout hockey destination, from winning the Stanley Cup in 2023 to now hosting these prestigious programs in the Ice Breaker Tournament in 2024,” said Steve Hill, president/CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. Tickets go on sale Oct. 20 at 10 a.m. PDT. Visit orleansarena.com for more.
Orleans Arena has a capacity of 9,500. Photo/orleansarena.com
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FOR MORE INFORMATION: USPHL.COM NCDCHOCKEY.COM USPHLPREMIER.COM USPHLELITE.COM
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From the Trainer’s Room Don’t let a muscle strain keep athlete cannot perform to the best of you on the bench their ability. Exercises to maintain With the beginning of a new season hip strength and mobility (different comes the excitement of getting back from flexibility-see our blog on that, out on the playing surface and comtoo) will help keep the groin healthy peting for the win. all season. Exercises such as the adSometimes this can lead to overductor rock, half-kneeling groin rock, exertion and muscle pulls right from and foot-elevated lateral lunge all can the first whistle. A common muscle help with mobility. Strength exercises strain I see right out can include adductor of training camp is side planks, Copenhathe adductor, or groin gens (long or short), pull. lateral weight shifts, We’ve all heard and messier squats. the old saying that Plan these accord“an ounce of preveningly during your intion is worth a pound season schedule with of cure….” This is your athletic trainer. very true. Following Even if you prea proper offseason pare properly and do training program diregular mobility and rected by professional strengthening during athletic trainers and the season, sometimes strength coaches who groin strains are not have intimate knowlcompletely preventedge of your sport able. Rehabilitation will go a long way in for groin pulls should preparing you for the not be rushed. These rigors of game play Mike Hannegan injuries could last for during the season. weeks if not taken While nobody and care of properly. no program is injury-proof, proper If you have concerns, see a medipreparation can go a long way in cal professional for evaluation and minimizing the risk. Younger athletes treatment. Treatments will include should be encouraged to be multisoft tissue work, myofascial release, sport athletes well into their teen light stretching, and strengthening years before specializing in one sport as part of a return to play protocol. (see our other columns on long-term Appropriate cardiovascular exercise athletic development). will also be encouraged to maintain Overall general athleticism will game-level fitness while rehabbing also decrease the chance of a groin the injury. injury. Don’t let a small injury sideline Once the season begins, it is esyou before the season gets in full sential to maintain proper adductor swing. There are a lot of games left health. to play this season. Treat the aches Small pulls or tweaks can grow and pains properly so you don’t miss and continue to nag the athlete all any of them. season long. In this situation, the Mike Hannegan is an athletic
trainer and strength coach with 10 years of experience in the NHL with the Anaheim Ducks and St. Louis Blues. He is currently the director of the Compete Sports Performance and Rehabilitation facility inside The Rinks-Yorba Linda Ice, located in beautiful Orange County, Calif. He can be reached at mike@competeperformance.com.
Importance of hip mobility The biggest and most powerful joint in the body is the hip joint. The hip joints not only generate the majority of power in athletic movements, but also are the center of all points of connection and load for the body’s muscle groups. Therefore, when the hip joint becomes compromised in any way, it affects the whole body. The most common way that the hip joint becomes compromised is
when an athlete performs high-level movements on a hip that is either tight due to a muscular imbalance or out of alignment because of repetitive sport practice. A way to combat these issues is by working on what is referred to as hip mobility. Hip mobility refers to the ability of the hip joint to pivot, move, and glide at all of the angles it is intended to. So how does an athlete make sure he can properly maintain hip mobility? To maintain or attain proper hip mobility, it is important that athletes take the time to stretch AND strengthen all muscles that are attached to the pelvis. It is common for people to talk about stretching their hamstrings or hip flexors, but there are many other muscles that attach to the pelvis. If one of these muscles is
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COMPETE Continued from Page 8 either weak or tight, this causes that muscle to pull or allow the pelvis to sit at an angle that compromises proper functional movement of the body. This can lead to injury when put under extreme stress or high loads, which is why it is important for athletes to maintain strength in addition to flexibility of the hips. Athletes can do so by performing exercises that force the hip to function at multiple ranges and angles. An example of this would be doing exercises such as 90/90s for a more stretch-oriented mobility exercise or doing a front foot-elevated split squat for a more strength-oriented exercise. Overall, hip mobility is one of the key areas athletes should focus on to help mitigate their chance of injury and also increase athletic performance. For more information on exercises that would benefit you and your hip mobility, ask your athletic trainer or strength coach. Tanner Smith is a strength and conditioning coach at Compete Sports Performance and Rehab in Orange County, Calif. He can be reached via www.competeperformance.com.
Fueling for success A car needs fuel to run, and the same can be said for the human body. Athletes in particular need to make sure to replenish their energy to get ready for the next training session or competition. An added obstacle is often a busy schedule. Between school, work, training sessions, practices, competitions, and homework, there is virtually no time to eat. If you struggle to find time to eat, packing snacks with quality calories is a good option. This can include energy bars, granola bars, fruit or fruit smoothies, bagels, crackers and cheese, or a peanut butter sandwich. Eating a solid meal prior to working out or a competition is optimal. Eat at least 3-4 hours before game time and avoid foods that are high in fat, as they do not digest as quickly. Including healthy carbs will also ensure that you have enough fuel to
RUBBER HOCKEY burn. Additionally, ensuring proper hydration goes hand in hand with refueling before and after workouts. This can be accomplished with water or sports drinks. If your activity is particularly rigorous or goes for an extended period of time, incorporating electrolytes is important, as well. If you have further questions on what to eat, seek advice from your family physician, registered dietician, athletic trainer, or physical therapist. Jorge Castellanos has a master’s degree in athletic training from Cal State Fullerton and is on staff at Compete Sports Performance and Rehab in Lake Forest, Calif. Two exercises to get faster Let’s face it. Every sport requires an athlete to be fast one way or another. Whether it’s a baseball player trying to change a single to a double, a soccer player going for a goal across the field, or a hockey player skating, all sports require the athlete to be fast. The question often asked is how to get faster. A lot of different training techniques go into increasing speed, but the following two exercises should be incorporated into any speed program for athletes, regardless of sport. To make it simple, you become faster by improving your ability to increase your stride frequency (how many times you are stepping) and your stride length (how long of a stride you take per step). 1. Stride Frequency – Downhill Running Before attempting, please be aware that I am NOT saying to run down a steep hill as fast as you can. All you need is a slight elevation and to start with a couple of practice attempts. Mimic the duration and speed you need in your sport and run down a hill. Walk back up the hill and repeat. 2. Stride Length – Uphill Running Yep, just go up a hill with slight elevation, preferably with an 8-12% grade. Mimic your sport speed and duration and run up the hill. Walk down the hill and repeat. As far as sets go, it’s important to time yourself. If you start slowing down, you’re not getting faster. I
know we all want to feel exhausted after each workout but keep your goal for the workout in mind. When working on increasing speed, it’s better to focus on being faster rather than feeling tired afterwards. Start with 6-8 sets, and once you start to notice improvements in
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your time, change your number of sets or have less recovery time between sprints. Taran Eckel is a strength and conditioning coach at Compete Sports Performance and Rehab in Lake Forest, Calif., and can be reached via www.competeperformance.com.
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Reunion product, Colorado youth hockey grad Templeton finding success with USPHL’s Cherokee BY MATT MACKINDER COLORADO HOCKEY HUB Through six games this season, Roman Templeton has tallied five goals and 10 points for the Toledo Cherokee. Not bad numbers playing for a team that is a perennial powerhouse on the USPHL junior hockey circuit. “It’s definitely appealing to be playing in this league knowing how many players have moved on to college,” said Templeton, a Reunion native. “College hockey has always been the dream goal. “The opportunity to sign with Toledo came along when the scouting director, Nic Saenz, reached out to me this past summer.” Being away from home is nothing new for Templeton, who played a season of 16U AAA hockey for the
Wenatchee (Wash.) Wilderness. “I’m excited for the opportunity to leave home again and prove myself at the next level,” Templeton said. During his time in Colorado, Templeton skated for the Hyland Hills Jaguars, Evolution Elite Hockey Academy, Krivo School of Hockey Elite, Rocky Mountain RoughRiders, and Colorado Thunderbirds. “Sergei Bautin and Andrei Krivokrasov were major influences in my early development,” said Templeton. “During my 14U season, Tyson Davis had a significant impact and assisted me a ton. He has a very positive influence throughout Colorado hockey and has coached thousands of kids like me. Ryan McKelvie and Kyle Brodie were also influential when I played in Wenatchee.” In addition to his youth hockey
Roman Templeton has spent time playing with the Puerto Rico national team. Photo provided success, Templeton has also suited up for the Puerto Rico national team. “In order to compete for Puerto Rico, I had to go through an eligibility process and register as a member of the Puerto Rico Ice Hockey Association,” explained Templeton. “Ev-
ery March, evaluation camps are held in Chicago. I’ve competed on the men’s national team in events held in Dallas, Florida, New York City, and Chicago. I’ve been fortunate enough to win silver and gold with the team so far. “The goal is to promote the sport of hockey in Puerto Rico, the Caribbean, Latin America, and beyond.” Entrenched in his role with Toledo, Templeton knows a solid season can lead to higher advancement. “My short-term goals are to have a productive and successful season this year,” Templeton said. “Over the next couple of years, the goal is to receive some NCAA offers. Playing college hockey has always been a long-term goal. My life goals are to obtain a business degree and eventually start my own company.”
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www.EasternHockeyLeague.org
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For the list of talented players chosen for these games, visit EasternHockeyLeague.org!
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Team Colorado AAA standout Bynan earns association’s first NCAA commitment of 2023-24, decides on Hood BY MATT MACKINDER COLORADO HOCKEY HUB Ella Bynan is a Utah native that has ventured to Colorado to round out her game on the ice. Earlier this week, the Team Colorado AAA standout announced her commitment to Hood College, a new NCAA Division III program in Frederick, Md., set to start play in 2024-25. “After joining NCSA, I started researching and reaching out to schools, Hood being one of them,” said Bynan, originally from Park City, Utah. “Coach (Josh) Funk set up a time to talk and then from there, he came to see me play in California at nationals. I was very interested in playing NCAA hockey as I moved my entire life to Colorado to improve. I thought being on a new
inaugural team would be a once-ina-lifetime experience, and Hood also has a great nursing program.” Bynan said she has always prioritized school and dedicated her high school career to taking classes to prepare her for majoring in nursing. She currently has her CNA (certified nursing assistant), EMR (emergency medical responder), and CPR and BLS certifications. On the ice, Bynan’s passion began next door in Utah. “My father encouraged me and my brother to play hockey, so we grew up on frozen ponds skating around with our neighbors,” explained Bynan. “From there, I started playing on my local coed teams and then eventually, all-female teams. Hockey in Utah has caused many issues for lots of girls because there are simply
Ella Bynan is in her first season playing with Team Colorado AAA. Photo/Be Feral Media no teams. So starting my first year of 14U, I would travel to Colorado every weekend to play for the Colorado Select. I did this for three years until I decided to give the Utah Lady Grizzlies one more chance. This ended up being one of my best seasons of hockey I have ever played. Not only were we winning games, but I made best friends and improved tremendously.”
The 2023-24 season is Bynan’s first with Team Colorado AAA. “My short-term goal is to graduate with good grades and improve as much as possible before going to Hood College,” Bynan said. “My long-term goal is to extend my hockey career after college and possibly go back to school to further my education.”
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Jr. Reign ‘family’ out to make impact in USPHL Premier for ’23-24 season BY MATT MACKINDER Ontario Jr. Reign coach-GM Jeremy Blumes gets it. He understands that junior hockey is all about development and improvement for the players. If the players buy in to what the coaching staff teaches, then everything else will take care of itself. “Our organization’s objective is player development, both on and off the ice,” said Blumes. “Winning is a product of that development. We are certain that if our players develop, we will have a successful record. We believe that our family will beat your team, we have seen our group become closer every day, and we expect that trend to continue. I believe that our team cohesion will be our greatest strength.” Blumes went on to say that inter-
Photo/Mike Zitek
nal competition within the Jr. Reign players is never a bad thing. “Training camp was very positive,” Blumes said. “We posses a hard working group that is looking to improve and enjoy the process each day. Plenty of competition in practice and in the gym. Good depth at all positions will have the staff having to make tough decisions on game days.”
When asked who will be Ontario’s top players this season, Blumes rattled off the names of several players. “Rhys Doyle is an electric two-way center, Kaedin Larocque-Wolfe has the innate ability to find the back of the net, Cooper Kantola is an agile 6-foot-3 two-way D-man that can play in all situations, and Chris Lai from the San Jose Jr. Sharks’ 18U AAA program plays with tremendous pace,” said Blumes. “Eamon Julian is a strong two-way center and penalty killer, Mason Welsh, CJ Kemp, Devin Blair, and Jon Anderson are all returnees that are playing with a great deal more assertiveness and confidence after a season in our league. Tristan Lam, Jace Bodnar, Tristen Friedman, Diego Flota, and Baden Powell all have experience in the USPHL and will be difference makers for us.
“We have a deep group and we expect different impact players to emerge on a nightly basis.” In looking at the roster this season compared to last season, Blumes noted that players climbing the ladder to higher levels of the game is the cause for much of the turnover. “Close to a third of our roster from last season has advanced to higher levels of hockey – Tier II, college and professional,” Blumes said. “My early impression is that we have a very focused group that has clear objectives. I believe that we will see even more of our players advance in our third year in the USPHL.” Perhaps most importantly, the growth of junior hockey on the West Coast in recent years can be attributed to the USPHL’s Pacific Division.
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For a preview of the USPHL Premier Pacific Division, including six teams in California and one other in Las Vegas, head on over to USPHLPremier.com!
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HDC Continued from Page 1 ultimately, we are designed to work with any player looking to grow as a hockey player and an athlete.” Pizzuto added that hockey is her passion, and this new role with HDC San Diego just adds to her love of the game. “I started playing roller hockey at the age of three and transitioned to ice hockey by eight years old,” said Pizzuto. “I played boys hockey until I was 13 and then moved over to girls playing AAA, prep hockey and NCAA Division III. I moved out west after college graduation and began working for the LA Kings in their hockey development department. I helped to build the LA Lions girls program, the LA Kings YMCA Ball Hockey League as well as grew my experience as a coach at all levels. I moved to San Diego and worked with the San Diego Angels as well as the Jr. Reign as their director of girls hockey. In June 2022, I traveled to Argentina with Team USA Roller to compete in the South American games, where we took home gold. “In my current role, I will ensure the business side of HDC, helping to bring in players and customers, and providing them with top-notch experience and handling the overall day-to-day operations of the facility. I will work hand-in-hand with our head trainer to provide the ultimate ‘customer journey’ for everyone who steps into our facility. We hope to partner with all local San Diego rinks. We believe we can help them as much as they can help us.” Baker explained that it’s very exciting to give hockey players in Southern California more options and to keep the growth of the game going on the West Coast. “That’s exactly why HDC San Diego exists,” said Baker. “From inhouse recreational players, to AAAlevel travel players, to professional players, we offer proven and measurable methods to improve any player’s game. We don’t care what team or organization a player plays with - we serve the growth of the game. My heart is in SoCal and my appreciation for the game is deep. It is a dream
RUBBER HOCKEY to be part of something new that can generate more new players, and build more confidence in existing players. The hockey community is strong here, but it has much more room to grow.” Growing up mostly in the San Diego area playing roller hockey, Baker said one prominent name and movie drew him in deeper. “I was introduced to the game by the allure of Wayne Gretzky and the release of ‘The Mighty Ducks,’” Baker said. “I remember riding a bus each week to UTC for an introductory ice hockey clinic when I was about 13 years old, then playing in a couple in-house leagues later on. However, I never really played competitively until I was a walk-on goaltender in college at Sacramento State University. I moved back to SoCal in 2002 where I continued to play recreationally until I became a father in 2011. I eventually transitioned into coaching at the Kroc Center in La Mesa. I am now an assistant coach with the San Diego Saints, and I love every minute.” Both Pizzuto and Baker have heightened expectations for this first season of HDC San Diego. “I expect headwinds until organizations and players try out our methods and see the results,” said Baker. “While some players and teams are instantly excited, others are cautious, and I respect that. This first season is critical for our organization, and it is important that we exceed early players’ expectations so growth can take place in the business, and more importantly, the game. HDC San Diego is unlike any other training center in the Western United States. “In order to be most effective, players will undergo one of or several diagnostic tests, designed to establish a baseline for each player. The Skating Analysis, for example, uses two video views to record a player’s skating technique and identify (through the combined use of AI and trainer interpretation) the precise areas of a player’s attributes to address. The other diagnostic involves general fitness levels, including balance, strength, reaction time, and more. When setting a baseline, goals become clear for the player and the trainers. The center is equipped to give one-onone personal training, small groups,
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Skatemill Fitness Diagnostic
camps, and entire team diagnostic and training programs.” Pizzuto is on board with Baker. “In Year 1, we hope to establish ourselves as a positive presence and influence for the San Diego hockey community,” said Pizzuto. “We would love the opportunity to work with teams of all ages from all clubs to show how our technology can help to improve each individual player’s game, ultimately helping teams to improve as a whole. Ever since moving to California in 2016, I have been lucky enough to be a part of growing hockey on the West Coast. After a
two-year hiatus, I could not be more thrilled to give back to the sport I love so passionately. I think there is so much opportunity for growth out here and to create a place for talented hockey players to stay. “I believe HDC San Diego has something to offer any hockey player no matter age, size, and skill level, and I encourage all those interested in bettering themselves as a skater, player and overall athlete to come check us out.” For more information, visit hdcsandiego.com, email hdcteam@hdcsandiego.com or call (858) 265-6340.
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JR. REIGN Continued from Page 16 “In our inaugural season, we had two local players on the roster, and one of them was Andrew Cervantes who is a freshman playing with the University of Central Oklahoma,” said Blumes. “This season, we have 11 local players on our roster, so I certainly believe that local California hockey players are beginning to un-
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derstand that this is a terrific option for them to play a high level of junior hockey without having to live a great distance from home.” Now with the new season fast approaching, goals are set and the Jr. Reign is ready to get to work. “Every season is different from the previous, and that’s why we play the game,” Blumes said. “We are focused on our own preparation and look forward to another competitive season in the Pacific Division.”
Littleton native, Hawks grad Nuanes off to USPHL’s Jr. Cyclones BY MATT MACKINDER COLORADO HOCKEY HUB
For 2023-24 NCDC team previews of Ogden, Provo, and Pueblo, be sure to visit NCDCHockey.com!
Dominic Nuanes played the 202223 season with the Littleton Hockey Association’s 18U team, his second season with the Hawks. That season earned him notice from junior hockey teams, and the Littleton native will play the 2023-24 season with the USPHL’s Cincinnati Jr. Cyclones. “An old coach reached out who is now with the Cincinnati Cyclones’ ECHL team and asked if I’d like to play for the junior team,” Nuanes said. “It’s super exciting to get away from home after playing at home my whole life to begin a new journey, both on and off the ice. “It’s an exciting and great opportunity to play in the USPHL. Not only do they send guys to college hockey, but they also send guys up to Tier II junior hockey as well.” Aside from his two seasons playing for Littleton, Nuanes played for the Foothills Flyers growing up, switched to the Colorado Rampage his 15U year, and then played LHA for 16U and 18U. “Playing at Littleton was a great experience,” said Nuanes. “In the two years I played, I met some of my best friends, on and off the ice. Littleton gave a new level of confidence in my game that has allowed me to progress and gave me the tools to be able to play at the next level.” Nuanes also credited several coaches for helping develop his game. “Dylan Bozeman, who now
Dominic Nuanes spent two years playing for LHA. Photo provided coaches the Foothills girls program, has been a huge influence and reason I have made it as far as I have,” Nuanes said. “Two others are Taylor Hoyt and Brian TenEyck, both at Littleton.” His USPHL season now in full swing, Nuanes has his eyes on the future as well. “My short-term goal is to make it to Tier II junior hockey in the NAHL,” he said. “Long term is to play college hockey.”
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HENSLEY Continued from Page 3 to represent the United States on the international stage,” said Hensley. “It has also been an honor to be part of the PWHPA and work toward the creation of the PWHL. The goal of the PWHPA was always to create a sustainable professional league, and the PWHL will fulfill that goal. To have had a role in all of this, though it was a small one, is something I’ll look back on and be very proud of one day.” The PWHL will start play this fall with six teams across the U.S. (Boston, Minnesota, New York) and Canada (Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto). “The league has a great group of
RUBBER HOCKEY investors that believe in our product and the people building this league, and to have this backing is huge,” Hensley said. “They hired an elite group of general managers and I believe the GMs will put together tremendous staffs in each location.” Still, when she looks back on her youth hockey days in Colorado, Hensley said it’s a dream come true to see where she is today. “When I was growing up, I only really had an NHL team to look up to,” said Hensley. “The national team has only played in Denver in 2002 and 2010, so although I knew it existed, it wasn’t something I understood or saw very often. On top of that, you only see the women play in the Olympics every four years. That’s the great thing about this league. Young
girls will finally be able to look up to professional female hockey players, day in and day out all season long, and know they can fulfill dreams of playing professionally.” Back home, Hensley played for the Colorado Select and Foothills Flyers. She is a three-time winner of the Colorado Sportswomen of the Year for hockey and was inducted into the Colorado Sportswomen Hall of Fame in March 2016. “I was very blessed to have so many great coaches growing up,” Hensley said. “I’m fortunate to have a long list of coaches that helped me love and learn the game growing up. It’s hard to single out just a few - Chris Leahy, John Seymour, Neil Olsen, Geoff Reigle, Shawn Rafferty, Jamie Weis, and Marnie Hill.
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Ken Klee, when I first made the U.S. Women’s National Team, made me believe I had the ability to make it at that level. He gave me a chance and I’ll never forget that.” With an Exercise Science degree from Lindenwood, Hensley sees using that as a Plan B down the road. “Focused on playing hockey right now,” said Hensley. “I plan to play hockey as long as I am able to compete at a high level.” As a role model, Hensley said she has a meaningful message to convey to girls hockey players in Colorado. “I would say enjoy every minute of your time on a team and on the ice,” Hensley said. “You’ll remember more of your experiences with the people than the results of a game. It goes by fast.”
Broomfield product Richardson shooting for the stars in final USPHL junior hockey season with Spacemen BY MATT MACKINDER COLORADO HOCKEY HUB Joe Richardson feels he has found the perfect fit for his last junior hockey season in the USPHL. After playing the 2022-23 season for the Richmond Generals, the Broomfield native will suit up in 2023-24 for the Fort Wayne Spacemen. “One of my buddies, Noah Takitani, has played there the past two years and got me and Trevor Evans an opportunity to play out here after getting in contact with the GM Kaleigh Schrock,” said Richardson. “Fort Wayne really stuck out to me considering how much they have improved over the last three seasons. Last year, they made it to the final 8 at nationals after beating the No. 2 seed as the No. 16 seed, which is not an easy task. “This year is huge for me and the team. I’m an age-out, so this is my last opportunity to prove myself to a college team. As far as the team goes, we want to be better than last year and make it to the final four.” When it comes to fitting in, knowing Takitani (Thornton) and Evans (Castle Rock) will be a plus for Richardson.
Joe Richardson played the 2022-23 season for the Richmond Generals. Photo/J. Bethea
“We are best friends from back home,” said Richardson. “I’ve known Noah since I was 10 or 11 and Trevor since I was 15.” With the season here, Richardson is ready to go.
“My short-term goals as of right now are to become the best player I can be and help this team make it to nattys,” Richardson said. “My longterm goal is to get into a good college with a solid program.”
Back home in Colorado during his youth hockey days, Richardson skated for the Hyland Hills Jaguars and with the Monument Hockey Academy.
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Oakland native Sommer takes job as new coach of WHL’s Wild The WHL’s Wenatchee Wild announced last week the hiring of Roy Sommer as the team’s new head coach. Sommer comes to Wenatchee after spending the 2022-23 season as head coach of the AHL’s San Diego Gulls. “I’m looking forward to going back to the Western Hockey League. It’s the league that gave me everything as a player and a coach,” said Sommer. “I’ve spent a lot of years at the next level that the players want to get to, and I’m excited about helping our players get to that next level. I’m also excited to be joining the Wenatchee Wild organization as it gets started on its journey in the WHL.” A native of Oakland, Sommer brings with him an extensive AHL and NHL coaching resume, with all but one of those seasons spent in the San Jose Sharks organization. His 828 AHL coaching wins are far and away the most in league history, and his 25-season run as an AHL bench boss is also a league record. His teams won four division titles, and
Roy Sommer has AHL and NHL experience coaching in the San Jose Sharks organization. Photo/Phillip Brents he earned the AHL’s Louis A.R. Pieri Memorial Award as its outstanding coach during the 2016-17 season, in which the San Jose Barracuda won a franchise-best 43 games and made a run to the Western Conference final. During his professional coaching
career, more than 150 of his players moved on to play in the NHL. He served twice as an NHL coach, first assisting under Al Sims and Darryl Sutter for the Sharks from 199698, and again stepping behind the Sharks’ bench as an associate coach
during the 2019-20 campaign. Sommer enjoyed a 10-year professional playing career after being drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs, scoring a goal in his NHL debut with the Edmonton Oilers in 1981 and leading the AHL’s Maine Mariners to a Calder Cup championship in 1984. His rise to the NHL as a player and coach began in the WHL, making his debut with the Edmonton Oil Kings before spending two years on the ice with the Calgary Centennials. He also served as an assistant coach in the WHL as a member of the Prince Albert Raiders in 1988-89. “We’re excited to welcome Roy to our organization,” said Wenatchee general manager Bliss Littler. “I think he is a great fit at this time. His background and history of developing players and moving them from the American Hockey League to the NHL is truly exceptional. When you talk to anyone in pro hockey, or those who know Roy, they will tell you the same thing – you’re getting a worldclass person.”
Skill set, faith lead Littleton native Carter to roster spot on inaugural Grit NAHL team BY MATT MACKINDER COLORADO HOCKEY HUB
Christian Carter won’t need to leave his home state for junior hockey as the Littleton native has cracked the roster of the Colorado Grit, a first-year NAHL franchise playing out of the Greeley Ice Haus. Through four games this season, Carter had picked up one assist for the Grit. “I got the opportunity to go to there pre-draft camp as I know one of the owners, David Clarkson, as he was with the Colorado Thunderbirds, and from there, I played well enough to get a main camp invite,” Carter said. “Played well there, got through training camp, and here we are. The biggest appeal was probably that I get to stay close to home to play junior hockey. Also, as a new franchise, there were 25 open spots and
that means more opportunity. Then to know some of the ownership and coaches that will be involved with the organization, that was all very appealing to me.” Carter said he went into camp already knowing a couple of players, Max Lacroix and Hunter Cooke, as they had played for the Thunderbirds before, and he had trained with them. Back home, hockey became a passion for Carter. “I grew up playing hockey because I saw my older brother playing and that just wanted to make me get on the ice,” said Carter. Carter skated for the Foothills Flyers for the majority of his youth career, playing there until his 14U year when he went to the Thunderbirds until his first year of 18U hockey. “Several coaches have stood out to me along the way,” Carter said. “One
Christian Carter played last season with the Colorado Thunderbirds’ 18U AAA team. Photo/ Lisa Scarfoni
is Gabe Gauthier. He really helped me at Foothills to develop to get to AAA. Then at AAA, all my coaches helped me along the way extraordinarily, and I thank each and every one of them.” Going forward, Carter has faith, literally, that he’ll be able to accomplish anything he sets out to do. “My short-term goals with hockey as of right now are to play out these next couple years of junior hockey and get an NCAA Division I schol-
arship,” said Carter. “From there, I want to take hockey as far as I possibly can with getting a college degree so I have a backup plan if hockey doesn’t work out. “I want to thank my lord and savior Jesus Christ for being with me my entire journey and giving me this incredible talent. It’s something I’m passionate about, and I’d like people to know that none of this is possible without Jesus being with me every step of the way.”
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United States-Canada ‘Rivalry Series’ games coming to Los Angeles, Tempe next month
Crypto.com Arena, located in Los Angeles. Photo/cryptoarena.com The LA Kings and USA Hockey today announced that the ‘Rivalry Series’ – featuring the women’s national teams from the United States and Canada – is returning to Los Angeles next month. On Saturday, Nov. 11, the U.S. Women’s National Team will host Canada at Crypto.com Arena as part of the 2023-24 Rivalry Series. This marks the second consecutive year the game has been played in Down-
town Los Angeles. Game time is 1 p.m. Tickets will go on sale Friday, Oct. 6 at 10 a.m., with pre-sales beginning Wednesday, Oct. 4 at 10 a.m. Visit www.axs.com for tickets. Portions of the proceeds from the game will benefit the Kings Care Foundation, specifically programs to grow and support girls hockey in Los Angeles. “Last year’s Rivalry Series contest
Mullett Arena, located in Tempe, Ariz. Photo/thesundevils.com was a great event, and we are excited to again help host the very best women’s hockey players in the world. It will a fun, lively atmosphere inside our home arena,” said LA Kings president and Hockey Hall of Famer Luc Robitaille. This will be the second stop in Los Angeles for the Rivalry Series, which was established by USA Hockey and Hockey Canada in 2018 to showcase the two powerhouse women’s hockey
programs. The 2023-24 Rivalry Series includes seven games in locations throughout the U.S. and Canada. The games in Los Angeles in the second stop on this year’s tour. The first game will be played in Arizona, at Tempe’s Mullett Arena, home of the NHL’s Arizona Coyotes and NCAA Division I Arizona State University. For more information on the Rivalry Series, visit usahockey.com.
STARTING OFF IN SAN DIEGO: A near-sellout crowd turned out to watch the Anaheim Ducks face off against the Los Angeles Kings in an NHL preseason game Friday Sept. 29 at Pechanga Arena San Diego. The Kings won 4-3. The game marked the first time the Ducks, the Gulls’ parent club, had played a preseason game in San Diego since 1994. Photos/Phillip Brents
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Highlands Ranch native, Hawks lifer Watson taking game to next level with NA3HL’s Tradesmen
BY MATT MACKINDER COLORADO HOCKEY HUB Reid Watson did it all last year for the Littleton Hawks’ 18U team - finished the 2022-23 season as team captain, was a CSDHL All-Star participant, and popped 42 goals with 42 assists for 84 points. For this coming season, the Highlands Ranch native will head to junior hockey with the NA3HL’s Oregon Tradesmen, a team in Wisconsin. “The head coach (Eric Fenton) has a connection with my dad, so it was highly recommended that I would come play here,” said Watson. “It’s very exciting as much as it was awesome playing at home for so many years and especially at Littleton. I
Reid Watson wore the ‘C’ last season for the LHA 18U team. Photo/Julie Ballantine
BY MATT MACKINDER COLORADO HOCKEY HUB Hunter Houle is a new member of the NA3HL’s Texas RoadRunners for the 2023-24 season, but the Durango native and Colorado Springs Tigers graduate is a familiar face to RoadRunners head coach Mike Beavis. Houle is coming off a very good season in goal with the Tigers’ 18U AAA team. “Hunter played for me in an NAHL Combine game last spring in St. Louis and I was very impressed with his compete level and skill set,” Beavis said. “He basically impressed the three of us behind the bench and ultimately won us that game. I then spoke with Hunter about attending the Odessa Jackalopes camp in Chicago and while we were on the phone, I learned that he was still looking for a spot in the NA3HL. I spoke with a friend of mine and his former coach in Colorado, Kevin Holmstrom, who said nothing but great things about Hunter and we decided to offer him a tender and sign him.”
“I’ve heard great things about the Texas RoadRunners and their team,” added Houle “They’re a solid group of guys and everyone has everyone’s back. This is my third year living away from home but with that being said, it is never easy to leave friends and family. Coming into Texas, I didn’t know a single person on the team. As for the NA3, I have some friends who I grew up playing hockey with in Colorado who now play in the league on the New Mexico Ice Wolves.” Truth be told, Houle said he is a late bloomer on the ice. “I didn’t start out playing hockey,” Houle said. “I actually started out playing baseball and football until I was about 14 years old. I decided to strap on the skates when I was about 10 years old. I’ve been playing ever since. “I started playing on a Bantam team called the Durango Steamers and after that, I moved up to high school where I played in the RGHSHL. I don’t think that league is around any more. As far as coaches
cannot wait to get this year started and have new challenges on the ice with the increased level and off the ice with living away from home.” Growing up, Watson played at LHA from Squirt C all the way to 18U. Last season, he also doublerostered with Mountain Vista High School. “Highlights were definitely going to nationals the past three years, especially my first time when I was 16,” Watson said. “Just the year we had dealing with COVID and how tight that group was made it very special and a year I will never forget. Jason Gour and Brian TenEyck were the coaches that pushed me the hardest and where I made the most strides
forward with development.” Moving forward, Watson knows his hard work will pay off in whatever facet he desires. “In the short term, I just want to focus on having a good year where I develop, become a better all-around player, and don’t worry about struggling because I know that this league will challenge and test me more than last year did,” said Watson. “Long term is to see if I can get a NCAA offer for either a Division I or Division III school and be able to play a high level of hockey in college. I’m not worrying too much about that, just taking one day at a time and it will take care of itself if I put the work into it.”
Durango product, Tigers grad Houle excited for time between pipes with NA3HL’s RoadRunners
Hunter Houle finished up his youth hockey career in 2022-23 with the Colorado Springs Tigers’ 18U AAA team. Photo provided in Durango go, Brian Ensign always had an impact on my career.” In addition to the Tigers, Houle also went to the CDA Hockey Academy in Idaho in 2021-22. Moving forward, Houle knows where he is now and where he wants to go.
“My short-term goal for hockey is to play at the college level,” said Houle. “As for my long-term goal, I haven’t quite figured out what I want to do after hockey. I’ve thought about going to a few trade schools, or trying to make my way over to Colorado College.”
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Thunderbirds’ Baechler earns win in first game as first female to play in USPHL Premier The Las Vegas Thunderbirds pulled off a nail-biting 5-4 win against the Long Beach Shredders on Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023, at City National Arena’s Ghost Energy Rink B. While the game itself was a rollercoaster of emotions and skill, the spotlight was firmly on Naomi Baechler, who made history as the first female goalie ever to play in the USPHL Premier Division. HISTORIC NIGHT FOR NAOMI BAECHLER Naomi Baechler, who recently committed to Yale University, had an impressive debut, stopping 21 of 25 shots. Her calm presence on the ice was palpable, and she lived up to her own description of being a “presence on the ice.” Marco Benvenuti, owner and GM of the Thunderbirds, said, “Naomi’s debut was nothing short of historic. Her performance tonight was a testament to her skill and the future of inclusivity in this sport.” GAME HIGHLIGHTS The Thunderbirds took an early lead with a goal from Liston, assisted by Alford and Walz, at 12:40 in the
Naomi Baechler earned the win in goal last Saturday night for the USPHL’s Las Vegas Thunderbirds. Photo provided
first period. The second period saw a flurry of action, with Dufour scoring twice for the Thunderbirds and Riquinha adding another. The Shredders fought back with goals from Hewitt, Wight, and Cherniak, making it a 4-3 game going into the third period. In a tense final period, Ben Tov tied the game for the Shredders with a power-play goal at 13:44. However, Dube sealed the win for the Thunderbirds with a goal at 17:38, ensuring a victorious end to a historic night. PENALTIES & POWER PLAYS Both teams had their share of penalties, but it was the Shredders who capitalized, scoring twice on the power play. The Thunderbirds, however, couldn’t convert on their opportunities but managed to hold on for the win. Clarification: Naomi Baechler is the second female to play in USPHL junior hockey overall – the first was Grace Campbell, who played 11 games for the Potomac Patriots of the USPHL Elite in 2021-22. -- USPHLPremier.com
The ACHA hockey season is underway, and teams from Arizona, including Arizona State, and California, including Loyola Marymount, have taken the ice with hopes of having strong seasons. For more, visit AZRubberHockey.com and CARubberHockey.com. Photos/Phillip Brents
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Arvada product, Colorado youth hockey alum Leivian aiming to fine-tune game with NA3HL’s Sea Captains BY MATT MACKINDER COLORADO HOCKEY HUB Chase Leivian knew he’d eventually leave home to pursue hockey, and that time was the 2023-24 season. Leivian, who played all his youth hockey in Colorado, made the jump to junior hockey this season with the NA3HL’s Norwich Sea Captains, a team in Norwich, Conn. “The opportunity for me to sign with Norwich arose through a relationship I built with head coach Kevin Cunningham over the last few years,” explained Leivian, an Arvada native. “We met through the USJDP hockey camp in Denver during the summer of 2020. We had conversations periodically about the potential fit for me in Norwich. What appealed to me about the Norwich Sea Captains was their commitment to development, every practice, workout, team event, or game’s high energy, intensity, and competition. It is extremely important to me that I continue to improve through my path to college hockey and I felt Norwich would be a fantastic place to push myself. I also felt that I would get incredible coaching and have an exceptional group of teammates. “The appeal of the NA3 was the versatility of the league. It is a place for players to develop in order to advance within the junior hockey ranks, or advance to college hockey. Both are respective goals I have during my time in junior hockey.” Norwich also has a trio of other Colorado-born players on the roster in Sam Adams (Longmont), Jameson Bain (Longmont), and Mitchell Goodman (Erie). “I did not know any of the other guys on the team at the time I tendered,” Leivian said. “It is ironic because there are three other players from Colorado, but I just never crossed paths with any of them in my time as a youth player. Although it can be challenging, I have enjoyed getting to know a new group of guys from a variety of backgrounds. It is cool to see how we can all come
Chase Leivian played last season with the Colorado Rampage and also served as an alternate captain. Photo/Ali Nash together and work for the same thing coming from all different places. “This season, I hope to grow as a hockey player to give myself the opportunity to compete at the next level of junior hockey. I want to play in as many games as I possibly can and push myself to new limits every day. I also hope to grow as a person, being challenged far away from home for the first time.” Back home, like many, Leivian got started playing hockey by watching the Colorado Avalanche with his dad. “As a kid, we would watch games together, and I was lucky enough to get to go with him to lots of games, too,” said Leivian. “The more hockey I watched, the more I fell in love I fell with the game. I couldn’t wait to start playing. I told my parents from the moment I could walk that I wanted to play hockey. I am so grateful for the support my parents have given me from the start. Without them, there is no way any of this
would be possible. By the time I was five, I was in skates and have been every moment since then.” Leivian played for the Arvada Hockey Association from Mites through Pee Wees. He then spent his 14U A, 14U AA, and 16U AA seasons with the Boulder Hockey Club. Overlapping Leivian’s time at Boulder was his high school hockey career at Ralston Valley where he spent his freshman and sophomore years. Before his junior year of high school, Leivian had the opportunity to play 16U AAA for the Colorado Rampage before playing 18U AAA for the Colorado Thunderbirds during his senior year of high school. He wrapped his youth career with a second year at the Rampage, playing 18U AAA. “I have been blessed in my hockey career to play for some fantastic coaches,” said Leivian. “First of all, I have to mention my skills coach, Lance Jaeger, who I have worked with for the entirety of my 14 years
on skates. I wouldn’t be where I am, on or off the ice, without him. We put in countless hours of work to develop the fundamentals and skills that make me the player I am today. “Another coach who has helped me immensely in my development is Mark Sample. I have learned so much about the game of hockey and grown as a young man during my relationship with him. My coaches from the Colorado Rampage have also been incredible influences during my two seasons there. I grew immensely as a player and became much more confident. Tyler Shipstad, Brett Clark, Pat Bingham, Andrew Sherman, and Justin Walters, among others, were all integral in my development.” Moving forward, Leivian has his priorities in check. “My short-term goals in hockey start this year where I want to be a valuable contributor to the Norwich Sea Captains,” Leivian said. “I hope to improve my game and thrive at the NA3 level. Looking into the future, I have the goal of advancing to the NAHL and then playing in the NCAA. The NCAA has been a longterm goal of mine as long as I have played hockey. “School is incredibly important to me. I take a lot of pride in my academics. I hope that after my junior hockey career I can earn a four-year degree and put myself in a good position for my post-college hockey life.”
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For a preview of the EHL and EHL Premier, check out EasternHockeyLeague.org!
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