Gear up for an exciting hockey weekend at the Hershey Showcase powered by Exposure Series, taking place from December 8th to 10th at multiple rinks in the PA area. The tournament will feature teams ranging from 9U to 18U hailing from New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. On Friday, the 10U matchup between the Esmark Stars and Flyers Elite will kick off the festivities.
Saturday brings a unique opportunity for 16U and 18U participants. The Hockey Advancement Seminar, hosted at Revolution Ice Gardens, offers aspiring hockey enthusiasts a chance to gain insights and guidance for advancing their skills and navigating the path to higher levels of play. Esteemed guests, including Craig Barnett from ACHA and Bob Turow from USPHL, will share their wealth of knowledge and expertise. There will be a seminar at 3:15 PM and another at 5:15 PM, parents are encouraged to attend.
To stay up-to-date with all the thrilling moments of the THF Showcase Weekend, be sure to follow us on all our social media channels, or head to the Game Center to access schedules, scores, and stats in real-time.
Here are your Tier 1 Hockey Federation Players of the Week and Peak Performer ending December 3rd, 2023. This weekly feature, running throughout the 2023-24 season, pays tribute to outstanding players across all divisions. Our honorees are selected from player nominations submitted by their respective coaches. You can now commemorate their achievements with customizable Player of the Week merchandise available in the league store.
10U Division: Nominating Coach: Nick Sedelnikov
- Team: NY Arrows
- Player’s Name: Roman Ilyich
- Jersey Number: 11
- Position: Forward
- Quote: Second game against Mercer Chiefs he had a Hat trick
11U Division: Nominating Coach: Josh Laber
- Team: CP Dynamo
- Player’s Name: Charlie Mehling
- Jersey Number: 4
- Position: Center
- Quote: Our Entire Team contributed to 2 wins this weekend, Charlie exhibited determination and paced the team with 2 of the 3 shorthanded goals that the team scored.
12U Division: Nominating Coach: Matt O’Shaughnessy
- Team: NY Arrows
- Player’s Name: Leon Pivovarov
- Jersey Number: 87
- Position: Forward
- Quote: Leon not only had 5 goals in 2 games, including a 4-goal performance in a win over Red Bank. But he also was responsible all over the ice, causing neutral zone turnovers while also being a factor in the defensive zone.
14U Division: Nominating Coach: Chris Joseph
- Team: NY Arrows
- Player’s Name: John DiPaolo
- Jersey Number: 13
- Position: Forward
- Quote: 3 goals, 4 assists in 3 games played including 2 game-winning goals.
15U Division: Nominating Coach: Mike Mattison
- Team: Palmyra Black Knights
- Player’s Name: Trevor Hill
- Jersey Number: 91
- Position: Forward
- Quote: Hat Trick Sunday
16U Division: Nominating Coach: Eric Conway
- Team: Westchester Express
- Player’s Name: JJ Eoanidis
- Jersey Number: 71
- Position: Forward
- Quote: The 6’2 power forward collected a goal and four assists in an 8-2 victory over CP Dynamo Saturday. He also added a big assist on Sunday, keeping a puck in at the blue line that led to the tying goal in a 3-2 come-from-behind win.
18U Division: Nominating Coach: Kevin Holmstrom
- Team: Colorado Springs Tigers
- Player’s Name: Jacob Wenner
- Jersey Number: 25
- Position: Forward
- Quote: Jacob posted 4 goals and 5 assists for 9 points in four THF games, helping pace the team to four wins on the weekend. Wenner serves as a team captain and continues to lead with his smooth skating and two hundred foot game.
Honorable Mentions
All players nominated by a coach receive an Honorable Mention
| Zachery Amsellem | Rockets Hockey | 11U | 77 | Goalie |
| Benjamin Pitman | Pal Jr Islanders | 11U | 88 | Forward |
| Hunter Ferraro | Woodbridge Wolfpack | 12U | 10 | Center |
| Nathan Sobel | NY Arrows | 14U | 34 | Forward |
| Samiel Suren-Pizarro | Rockets Hockey | 14U | 3 | Forward |
| Ryan MacDonald | Tri State Spartans | 14U | 17 | Defense |
| Nolan Vaught | Tri State Spartans | 14U | 19 | Defense |
| Alec Ozder | Jersey Hitmen | 14U | 1 | Goalie |
| Christian Sherman | New Jersey Jets | 15U | 9 | Forward |
| Brendan Dalton | NY Arrows | 16U | 9 | Forward |
| Charlie Turner | Colorado Springs Tigers | 18U | 12 | Forward |
| Ethan Winters | Rose City Pats | 18U | 75 | Forward |
In an exciting development for the Tier 1 Hockey Federation (THF), Zander Lipsett, a promising player from the Tri State Spartans, has received a tender offer from the Austin Bruins of the North American Hockey League (NAHL).
Hailing from Lexington, Kentucky, Lipsett has emerged as a standout player, showcasing his prowess with an impressive performance in the current season. In 27 games, he has contributed significantly to his team’s success, tallying an impressive 12 goals and 20 assists for a total of 32 points.
Tri State Spartans’ Head Coach, Ryan McGinnis, expressed his confidence in Lipsett’s abilities, stating, “It comes as no surprise that Steve Howard in Austin found value in Zander. Zander is one that translates to the NAHL with his internal motivating actions on and off the ice. We look forward to seeing his continued growth as a student of the game with the Austin Bruins.”
McGinnis’ remarks shed light on Lipsett’s work ethic and determination, not only as a skilled player but also as a dedicated student of the game. The emphasis on Lipsett’s internal motivating actions suggests that he brings more than just physical prowess to the team; he carries a passion for the sport that extends beyond the rink.
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.
For the week ending on December 3rd, the Tier 1 Hockey Federation rankings are in. KRACH is a team’s win/loss ratio multiplied by strength of schedule. You can view all rankings on the THF KRACH page here.
The teams that are in first in each division are Wolfpack (9U), Mid Fairfield Rangers (10U), CT Jr Rangers (11U), Wolfpack (12U), Rockets (13U), Pittsburgh Predators (14U), Rockets (15U), Springfield PICs (16U), and Rockets (18U).
Join us for the THF Game of the Week, an exhilarating live-streamed hockey match every weekend on the Federations Hockey YouTube Channel. Throughout the season, family, friends, coaches, and scouts can tune in to catch the action-packed U18 THF matchups via the THF Mobile App or Website.
This week’s featured game showcases Esmark Stars U18 team as they face off against the Rockets U18 team. Be sure not to miss this exciting showdown, scheduled for Sunday at 1:40 pm ET, and taking place at Bridgewater Sprots Arena in Bridgewater, NJ.
In case you missed the last thrilling matchup on Sunday, December 3rd, where Esmark Stars went head-to-head with the Jersey Hitmen, you can still catch the highlights and the full game replay right here.
The THF has partnered with Play-by-Play Productions of Princeton, NJ to produce the HD telecasts. Play-by-Play is an industry leader in Live-Streaming elite youth and amateur sporting events, serving dozens of clients from throughout the U.S. and overseas.
Get ready for an exhilarating weekend of hockey as the Colorado Showcase, powered by the Exposure Series, takes center stage from December 1st to 3rd at Blue Sport Stable in Superior, CO. This highly anticipated event promises intense competition across the 16U-18U divisions, drawing teams from diverse regions all vying for victory.
The lineup features formidable squads such as the Colorado Spring Tigers, Lincoln Stars, CDA, Potomac Patriots, Rocky Mt Roughriders, Wasatch Renegade, Monument Hockey, NC Golden Bears, Oakmoor Patriots, and Rose City Pats. The puck drops on the action-packed weekend with an eagerly awaited face-off between the 16U Lincoln Stars and the Rocky Mt Roughriders at 8:30 am on Friday morning. Be prepared for a thrilling showcase of skill, teamwork, and passion on the ice.
To stay up-to-date with all the thrilling moments of the THF Showcase Weekend, be sure to follow us on all our social media channels, or head to the Game Center to access schedules, scores, and stats in real-time.
Excitement is buzzing in the world of Tier 1 Hockey Federation as Biggby Coffee AAA Hockey’s standout forward, Riley Fast, recently inked a tender agreement with the North American Hockey League (NAHL)’s Maryland Black Bears. Hailing from East Lansing, Michigan, Fast has been making waves with his remarkable performance on the ice.
Fast’s impressive season with Biggby’s 18U AAA team has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in securing this opportunity. In 34 games this season, he showcased his prowess by amassing an impressive 30 points. His ability to contribute both offensively and defensively caught the attention of scouts, leading to this significant milestone in his hockey journey.
Biggby Coffee AAA Hockey’s 18U Head Coach, Brian Sherry, had high praise for Fast, describing him as a “strong two-way center-man who possesses a scoring touch and a physical presence on the ice.” Sherry went on to emphasize Fast’s character, noting that the young forward has not only displayed excellence in his gameplay but also embodies qualities that contribute positively to the team dynamic.
Coach Sherry expressed his confidence in Fast’s future, stating, “Riley has great things coming his way in his hockey career.” This endorsement speaks volumes about Fast’s potential impact as he takes the next step in his hockey journey with the Maryland Black Bears in the competitive environment of the NAHL.
The NAHL is renowned for its role in developing top-tier talent, and Fast’s signing with the Maryland Black Bears opens a new chapter in his pursuit of excellence. As he prepares to transition to the next level of competition, fans and supporters eagerly anticipate witnessing the continued growth and success of this promising young player.
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.
Join us for the THF Game of the Week, an exhilarating live-streamed hockey match every weekend on the Federations Hockey YouTube Channel. Throughout the season, family, friends, coaches, and scouts can tune in to catch the action-packed U18 THF matchups via the THF Mobile App or Website.
This week’s featured game showcases Esmark Stars U18 team as they face off against the Jersey Hitmen U18 team. Be sure not to miss this exciting showdown, scheduled for Sunday at 10:15 am ET, and taking place at Ice Vault in Wayne, NJ.
In case you missed the last thrilling matchup on Sunday, November 19th, where Team Maryland went head-to-head with the Jersey Hitmen, you can still catch the highlights and the full game replay right here.
The THF has partnered with Play-by-Play Productions of Princeton, NJ to produce the HD telecasts. Play-by-Play is an industry leader in Live-Streaming elite youth and amateur sporting events, serving dozens of clients from throughout the U.S. and overseas.
For the week ending on November 26th, the Tier 1 Hockey Federation rankings are in. KRACH is a team’s win/loss ratio multiplied by strength of schedule. You can view all rankings on the THF KRACH page here.
The teams that are in first in each division are Wolfpack (9U), Mid Fairfield Rangers (10U), CT Jr Rangers (11U), Wolfpack (12U), Rockets (13U), CP Dynamo (14U), Rockets (15U), Rockets (16U), and Rockets (18U).
Reposted by Black Bear Youth Hockey Foundation
In a significant stride towards fostering inclusivity in youth hockey, the Black Bear Youth Hockey Foundation proudly announces its scholarship recipients for the 2023-24 season, providing a total of $44,900 in financial aid to 64 deserving children. Established in 2020, the foundation aims to eliminate financial barriers hindering youth hockey participation, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to experience the camaraderie and life lessons that the sport offers. Through individual grants and sponsored programs, the foundation strives to ease the financial stress many families face in affording equipment and ice time. Youth hockey, known for cultivating friendships, teamwork, and accountability, becomes an accessible avenue for all, nurturing a lifelong passion for the sport.
Stories of Triumph and Dedication:
Michael Edelstein: A dedicated player on the Grundy Senators 12U hockey team, Michael Edelstein’s journey into hockey began at the age of three. Despite financial challenges, Michael’s single mom supports his passion, and the Black Bear Hockey Foundation scholarship serves as a crucial support, enabling him to continue thriving on the ice.
The Turpin Family: June, James, and Jackson Turpin of the Maryland Jr. Black Bears express their deep gratitude as recipients of the Black Bear Hockey Foundation scholarship. Despite facing financial strains due to their dad’s surgery, the scholarship has allowed them to persist in their love for hockey.
Noah Krasner: A devoted player for the Igloo Jaguars since the age of five, Noah Krasner considers hockey more than just a game—it’s his life. The scholarship, received last year, proved transformative as Noah moved to the 16u level, enhancing both his skills and maturity. Noah’s unwavering work ethic and commitment make him a deserving candidate for ongoing support.
Paulina Rucz: Overcoming the challenges of a rare heart defect, Paulina Rucz, a resilient player on the 16U Elite Islanders Girls team, has defied the odds. The scholarship, received last year, eased financial strain for her mother amid layoffs. Paulina’s remarkable achievements, including MVP and Top Scorer, reflect her dedication, and she looks forward to the continued support of the scholarship in pursuing her dreams in the National Women’s Hockey League.
Scholarship Recipients
Michael Edelstein
Kamil Szumigraj
Shawn Gearl
Chase Clouser
Hunter Brown
Paulina Rucz
Isaiah Scanlon
Bryston Elgalady
Jean-Paul Dominguez
Alexander Udal
Ivan Shuminski
Chyna Taylor
Jack McKenzie
Jack Doran
Noah Krasner
Nicolette Gentile
Evan Elias
Gemma Graeff
Yahor Putau
Christian Blood
Leland Williams
David Dziomba
Richard G Volgraf (Jr.)
Frank Rosenberry
Xavier Jamison
Kele Aragon
Carlo Pietroboni
Ella Doran
Peyton Hull
Aidan Shine
Braydon Hammond
Ara Landskroener
Antons Podskocijs
Jackson Turpin
James Turpin
June Turpin
Jan Eschler
Brayden Lodise
Amelia Smith
Alexander Kuznikov
Ethan Kotecki
Austin Kotecki
Noah Kotecki
Liam Garten
Camerom Feeley
Avah Williams
Mark Gusev
Chloe Makinson
Draek Davis
Noah Desotti
Keegan Champagne
Preston Champagne
Javion Drupp