The Tier 1 Hockey Federation has announced that Aden Gariepy, the talented goaltender for Biggby Coffee AAA Hockey, has been listed on the NHL’s Preliminary Players to Watch list for the highly anticipated 2024 NHL Draft. This recognition is a testament to Gariepy’s skill and dedication to the sport, and it’s an exciting moment for both him and his team.
Hailing from Munising, Michigan, Aden Gariepy is a 2005 birth-year player who is currently in his second season with Biggby Coffee AAA Hockey. In his short but promising career, he has already made a significant impact. Gariepy has appeared in 11 games, impressively posting a 6-3 record, showcasing his ability to consistently perform at a high level.
What makes this recognition even more special is that Gariepy stands out as the lone US AAA player featured on the Preliminary Players to Watch list for the 2024 NHL Draft. This accomplishment is a testament to his exceptional talent and the dedication he and his team have put into honing his skills.
Notably, Gariepy’s ranking on the list includes a “W” ranking, which indicates that he is projected to be selected in the 7th or 8th round of the NHL Draft.
This recognition is not only a personal achievement for Aden Gariepy but also a source of pride for the Biggby Coffee AAA Hockey team and the Tier 1 Hockey Federation.
As the 2024 NHL Draft approaches, all eyes will be on Aden Gariepy and his continued progress in the world of hockey. His journey is a testament to the possibilities that exist for aspiring players who have the dedication and talent to rise to the top of their game. We wish Gariepy the best of luck in his future endeavors and look forward to seeing his name on the NHL Draft board next summer.
The Tier 1 Hockey Federation is thrilled to share some outstanding news within the hockey community. Connor Jalbert, a talented forward hailing from Marblehead, Massachusetts, has officially signed a tender agreement with the Anchorage Wolverines of the North American Hockey League (NAHL). This is a momentous occasion for the young athlete, marking a significant step forward in his hockey career.
Jalbert’s journey to this point has been nothing short of remarkable. Over the course of 20 games with the Biggby Coffee AAA Hockey team this season, he has demonstrated his scoring prowess, netting an impressive 10 goals and contributing 19 assists for a total of 29 points. His dedication and skill on the ice have made him a valuable asset to his team.
The Tier 1 Hockey Federation extends its heartfelt congratulations to Connor Jalbert on this exciting milestone.
As always, the Tier 1 Hockey Federation is committed to celebrating and supporting the success of talented young athletes like Connor. If you have a player whose achievements you would like to see featured in our announcements, please fill out the form here. We are eager to share the stories of these rising stars as they advance in their hockey careers.
The Tier 1 Hockey Federation is delighted to share some exciting news in the world of youth hockey. DJ Ott, captain of the Biggby Coffee AAA Hockey 18U team, has been tendered by the Fairbanks Ice Dogs of the North American Hockey League (NAHL). This is a significant milestone in Ott’s hockey career, and it reflects his dedication and skill on the ice.
Hailing from Sand Creek, Michigan, Ott has been a standout defenseman for Biggby Coffee AAA Hockey. This season, he has notched an impressive 1 goal, 5 assists, and a total of 6 points. His leadership as team captain has been invaluable, setting an example for his teammates on and off the ice.
Ott began this season with the Fairbanks Ice Dogs, playing in three games with the NAHL team before returning to Michigan. After his return, Ott signed a tender with the Ice Dogs, cementing his path to the next level of competition in junior hockey.
The Tier 1 Hockey Federation extends its heartfelt congratulations to DJ Ott on this significant achievement. We are proud to see one of our own players advancing to the next level of their hockey career, and we wish Ott all the best as he continues to pursue his dreams in the world of hockey.
If you have a player whose advancement you would like to see featured in our announcements, please feel free to fill out the form on our website. We are always excited to share the success stories of talented young athletes as they progress in their hockey journeys.
The Tier 1 Hockey Federation is excited for its second Federation Education Series guest this season. This series will feature presentations for our players, families, and coaches on the landscape of hockey and Player Development. This edition of the Education Series features College Hockey Inc.
Geared toward players 14U and older and their families, this presentation will feature information on the pathway to college hockey and information about maintaining NCAA eligibility while exploring their hockey options en route to college hockey.
The webinar will take place on November 8th at 7:00 pm ET and take approximately 30 minutes and allow for a Q&A from players and parents.
Date: November 8th
Time: 7:00 pm ET
In October, the NY Arrows embark on their 3rd Annual Pink the Rink campaign, donning pink jerseys for the entire month. The initiative serves a dual purpose: raising funds and creating awareness for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The Pink the Rink tradition began in the fall of 2021, with the Arrows passionately advocating for breast cancer awareness and emphasizing the importance of self-exams for women of all ages. This month-long effort includes special fundraising events, such as Parents Night Out, where ticket proceeds support their cause. Additionally, donations are welcomed at all home games, featuring 50/50 drawings, raffles, auctions, and culminating in a Coaches Charity game.
While Pink the Rink is a common theme during October, this cause hits close to home for the Arrows Organization and their families, following the loss of a beloved member this summer. Adina Perullo, who had been battling breast cancer, sadly passed away on August 7, 2023. Adina’s son, Luca, joined the Arrows in the summer of 2021, and in her honor, the Arrows chose to wear pink jerseys that October for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Adina fought Stage 4 Metastatic Breast Cancer, a particularly aggressive and terminal form of the disease. Despite the daunting prognosis, Adina remained strong, emphasizing awareness and never wanting anyone to feel sorry for her. Arrows President Robert Albi remembers her as someone who “could light up a room with her infectious smile, strong will, and never-quit attitude.”
Albi’s words reflect the enduring impact of Adina’s strength and message: “Adina will always be my hero, and her message will live on as we continue to wear Pink the Rink Jerseys and raise more money to support those in need and to find a cure for this terrible disease.”
In addition to their Pink the Rink campaign, the Arrows are also participating in a Breast Cancer walk, led by Courtney Banks, a Breast Cancer Survivor and mother of Arrows player Ethan. Courtney’s journey began in 2020 when she was diagnosed with Stage 3 Invasive Ductal Breast Cancer while navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. Her determination to provide a distraction for her son Ethan led her to enroll him in the Arrows organization.
Courtney, a source of inspiration, shares her story with Arrows parents, highlighting the significance of self-exams and the importance of not delaying mammogram appointments. Her message resonates: “I want to share my story with you because I want to help as many people as I can.”
On Saturday, she leads the way at the 30th Annual Making Strides Breast Cancer Walk at Jones Beach, hoping for the support of Arrows players and parents alike.
The funds raised by the Arrows go to support families battling breast cancer, as well as Metavivors, the first foundation exclusively focused on Stage 4 metastatic breast cancer research, and the Mena Singer Foundation, founded by two hockey players who lost their mother to breast cancer in 2015.
Mark your calendars for Pink the Rink Weekend next weekend, an event that promises to unite the community and make a difference in the fight against breast cancer. If you wish to donate to the cause, you can do so here.
In the world of youth hockey, stories of friendship and camaraderie are as common as the sound of skates on ice. However, some stories stand out as exceptional examples of how the sport transcends borders and brings young athletes together from across the globe. The tale of Anton Psotka and Erik Zahradnik is one such inspiring story of international hockey fostering lasting friendships and fulfilling dreams.
In the summer of 2022, Anton Psotka, a player from the Pittsburgh Predators 2010 team, embarked on a remarkable journey to Bled, Slovenia, to represent CCM USA in the prestigious Bled Euro tournament. Anton’s father, Dalibor, a former hockey player himself from the Czech Republic, accompanied him on this memorable trip. Little did they know that this adventure would lead to the creation of an enduring friendship and pave the way for Erik Zahradnik’s pursuit of a lifelong dream.
While in Bled, Anton crossed paths with Erik Zahradnik, an exceptional player hailing from Brno, Czech Republic. Erik not only showcased his impressive hockey skills but also expressed a heartfelt desire to come to the United States to play Elite AAA hockey. The Pittsburgh Predators organization, under the leadership of owner Ralph Murovich and Club Director Tyler Murovich, welcomed Erik with open arms, seeing an opportunity to unite young talents and create a unique international dynamic within their team.
The journey to bring Erik to the United States was no small feat. The Pittsburgh Predators organization worked diligently to facilitate Erik’s club transfer from Kometa Brno through USA Hockey, ensuring a seamless transition. They also provided support for Erik’s schooling and housing, demonstrating their commitment to nurturing his talent and fostering his dreams.
Anton Psotka and Erik Zahradnik not only became teammates but fast friends. Anton speaks passionately about the experience, stating, “Our entire team is happy to have Erik here, and as we get older, we know we will play with international players, and that makes us all better people and athletes.” Their bond on and off the ice exemplifies the power of sports to bridge cultural gaps and create lasting connections.
For Erik, his journey to the United States to play AAA hockey at the Pittsburgh Predators is the realization of a lifelong dream. He expresses his gratitude, saying, “I am so happy to be here in the United States playing AAA hockey at the Pittsburgh Predators so I can make my dreams come true!” Erik’s dedication and enthusiasm inspire not only his teammates but also anyone with a passion for the sport.
As the 2010 Predators team joins the THF (Tier 1 Hockey Federation) and looks to compete at a high level, their story serves as a shining example of how international hockey can bring young athletes together, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. It reminds us of the quote, “If you have an opportunity to do amazing things in your life, bring someone with you.”
Anton Psotka and Erik Zahradnik are proof of the extraordinary possibilities that can arise when we embrace the global nature of sports and the bonds and friendships hockey creates on and off the ice.
This past August, seven players from the AHF, AGHF and THF all had the opportunity to represent Team Egypt in the Amerigol LATAM Cup.
In an effort to promote the growth of ice hockey in non-traditional markets, Amerigol has been organizing the LATAM Cup, an international ice hockey tournament that brings together teams from emerging hockey nations.
The Amerigol LATAM Cup has become a focal point for nations with burgeoning hockey programs. It offers these countries a platform to showcase their skills and bring awareness to the growing game of hockey in non traditional markets.
Unfortunately, they came up short in the semis, finishing in fourth place overall. However, the experience gained from competing at this level will undoubtedly serve as a valuable building block for the future. Four members of the Princeton Tiger Lilies (PTL) of the AGHF represented Team Egypt playing co-ed and hope to return next summer with Egypt’s first women’s team.
“This tournament is something I look forward to each year,” said PTL 16U Goaltender Danna Ramadan, “The ultimate goal is leading the way and providing the opportunity for those who want to play in Egypt. This tournament comes with many opportunities, representing our native country, playing with other Egyptian players from around the globe and carrying the face and legacy of many more to come after. Looking ahead we plan to add on to this organization and bring forth a women’s team emphasizing hockey is for everyone. “
“The most memorable part of this tournament was watching teams from various backgrounds participate in the the sport they know and love while showcasing their heritage,” said PTL 14U forward Malac Ramadan, “Nothing will ever compare to representing my country, wearing these jerseys each game, and having the privilege to represent the national Egyptian olympic committee. Overall this whole experience will always be memorable and will be something I look forward to for each year to come.”
“My favorite part of the LATAM tournament was getting to meet people from different countries and seeing their spirits and cultures all come together to play the sport I love,” said PTL 14U forward Sophie Allam, “It was special to me because I gave hope to young Egyptian girls, that someday they can be on the Pharaohs team as well.”
While Team Egypt may not have secured the top spot this year, these young players are already looking forward to returning to the LATAM Cup next season. Their commitment to growing the sport in non-traditional markets exemplifies the mission of Amerigol: to expand the reach of ice hockey and foster its development in unexpected places.
“LATAM truly was truly an experience to remember,” said Mercer Chiefs 16U defensemen Abdallah Mohamed, “Getting a chance to play with my country’s flag on my jersey fueled my love for the sport. The friends I made, the lessons I’ve learned, and the thrill of playing the spot I love while fans cheered from the stands, all made the LATAM Cup a tournament I look forward to every year.”
“Playing in Amerigol’s LATAM cup was a very fun experience, something that I will not forget,” said Mercer Chiefs player Harroun Ali. “The players I made friends with and the coaches that helped me become a better player especially Coach Sameh, Coach Hoss, Coach Andrew and, the Egypt Ice Hockey Men’s team that helped me with any questions I had and helped me become a better skater a better shooter and overall a better person I would always play in LatAm cup as the organizers are very friendly and it is a great place to play hockey in.”
“LATAM was a once in a lifetime experience, not only am I playing with my buddies of the same culture, but I’m learning about other cultures and experiences on the ice,” said Mercer forward Adam Allam ,”Hockey has always been my passion and it just keeps growing every year. Winning the gold medal our first year competing in Latam was a day that will stay in my heart forever. Looking forward to next year’s tournament!”
The Tier 1 Hockey Federation is proud to announce the addition of the 16U Lincoln Stars for the 2023-24 season. Based out of Lincoln, Nebraska, the Stars will play out of the Ice Box, home of the USHL’s Lincoln Stars.
Adding to the excitement is the appointment of former NHL player Curtis Brown as the head coach of the 16U team. Brown brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the young players, making this season a promising one for the Lincoln Stars’ 16U squad.
This season promises to be a memorable one for Lincoln, Nebraska, as the Lincoln Stars make their mark in the THF, showcasing the city’s passion for hockey and its commitment to nurturing young talent. Keep an eye on the Ice Box as the Stars aim to shine brightly in the 2023-24 season and beyond.
