During the 2025-26 season and 2026 offseason, three Arizona natives found themselves in the headlines for the Eastern Hockey League.

First, Thomas Hickey, a forward for the EHL’s Pennsylvania Huntsmen, committed to NCAA Division III Worcester State University for the 2026-27 season.

Hickey, an ‘05 out of Tempe, led the Huntsmen in points this year with 28 points. He began his EHL career last year, sharing time between the EHL and EHLP. In total, he played 58 games and registered 35 points.

“I am very excited for Thomas and his commitment to Worcester,” said Huntsmen head coach Zac Desjardins. “He is a very driven young man, and once he came to us a month into the season, I knew we got a player who was focused and ready to put the work boots on. I am sure he will be a great asset to the team and will not only push himself but his teammates to be the best they can be. I wish him the best of luck and look forward to seeing how he progresses at the NCAA level.”

Hickey is the first EHL player to commit to WSU for the 2025-26 season. He will join double digit EHL alumni on the Lancers, led by head coach Bob Deraney.

“I’m really thankful to be in a position like this, getting the opportunity to play college hockey,” Hickey said. “I’d like to thank my family for helping me reach my goals, as well as the Huntsmen for focusing on my player development. I’d also like to shoutout my former coach Blake Hoffman for working with me this past summer and believing in me. I am excited to bring my game to the NCAA level.

“The EHL really does develop, promote, and advance their players.”

Back home, Hickey skated for the Arizona Titans and Corona del Sol High School.

In addition, back on November 11, 2025, a pair of Arizona youth hockey alumni earned weekly EHL Premier awards from the EHL.

New Hampshire Avalanche defenseman Curtis Anderson was a Star of the Week for the Northeast Conference, while New Jersey 87’s forward Colin Grantham picked up the same honor from the Mid-Atlantic Conference.

Anderson, a Queen Creek native, proved to be a strong force on defense for the Avalanche, recording eight points in four games leading to his award.

Back home, Anderson played for the Arizona Bobcats and Campo Verde High School.

Grantham played a key role in the 87’s win over the Atlantic City Seals, scoring both goals to earn the win on .

The forward from Phoenix skated for Mission AZ and Mountain Ridge High School.

Hickey photo/MiaSara McLaughlin

— EHL Staff

(August 4, 2026)