Category Archives: Junior
Mesa native, Jr. Coyotes, Bobcats alum Day takes next step with commitment to NCAA D-III UW-River Falls
July 27th, 2026The NAHL’s Oklahoma Warriors have announced that forward Trace Day has committed to play NCAA Division III hockey for the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. A 6-foot-4 forward from Mesa, Day is a third-year veteran of the NAHL and spent this past season splitting time with the Warriors and Austin Bruins. He started his age-out year…
Two-tiered EHL development system a proven benefit to teams, players alike
July 24th, 2026The Eastern Hockey League isn’t your typical junior hockey league. Has it advanced a slew of players to college hockey over the years? Yes, the numbers don’t lie. Has it been a sustainable league even in the wake of changes to junior hockey and college hockey in recent years? Absolutely. Will the league continue to…
Annual EHL Combine Series gives teams opportunities to find next wave of talent
July 10th, 2026The Eastern Hockey League sets aside multiple weekends each spring for teams to check out players that can potentially play in the junior hockey league for the upcoming season. And the EHL Combine Series has delivered the past few seasons as many players that have showcased their talents have found their way onto EHL and…
USHL announces new franchises set for Phoenix, Prescott Valley
June 24th, 2026Backed by Hockey Hall of Famers Luc Robitaille, Joe Sakic, and Teemu Selanne, the USHL has announced the six West Coast markets targeted to launch teams by the 2027-28 season, along with the accompanying partners committed to expanding access to the Tier I American development path. Owners / Markets “We are excited to have received…
Showcase Series part of growing exposure initiatives for EHL, EHLP in 2026-27
June 22nd, 2026As the Eastern Hockey League continues to thrive and succeed in player development and advancement on a yearly basis, part of that process is the league’s annual Showcase Series, events where some or all teams in the EHL and EHLP come together under one roof and play regular-season games in front of scouts and decision-makers…
Arizona natives selected in two-day NAHL Draft; Ice Wolves make picks to fill out roster
June 10th, 2026This week, the NAHL held a two-day draft for teams to fill out rosters for the 2026-27 season and in future seasons. NAHL Futures Draft – June 9, 2026 ARIZONA2nd round, 57th overall – Elias McLean (Gilbert), F, Fairbanks Ice Dogs (Victory Honda 15U) NEW MEXICO ICE WOLVES1st round, 26th overall – John Myers, F,…
USHL planning expansion with new franchises to be located in Arizona, California, Nevada
June 5th, 2026In continuance of the NHL and USA Hockey’s expanded collaboration supporting advancement of the Tier I junior hockey development pathway in the United States, the USHL and a group of stakeholders have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish member clubs in Arizona, California and Nevada. “This expansion is about more than adding teams –…
Tempe native, Jr. Coyotes, DYHA grad Butler heading home with ACHA Arizona State commitment
June 5th, 2026The NA3HL’s New Mexico Ice Wolves have announced that forward Calahan Butler has committed to play ACHA Division I college hockey for Arizona State University. This past season, the Tempe native recorded 48 points in 46 games on 25 goals and 23 assists. “Proud to see the ladder of development working for deserving players like…
Bobcats grad, San Tan Valley native Bryant selected by Brighton in annual GMHL Draft
May 22nd, 2026The Greater Metro Hockey League held its annual draft on May 20, and one Arizona native was selected. San Tan Valley native and forward Mason Bryant went in the eighth round (143rd overall) to the Brighton Vikings. An Arizona Bobcats alum, Bryant put up three goals and seven points in 44 games last season for…
Jr. Coyotes teammates Grabner, Malinski chosen in annual WHL Prospects Draft
May 8th, 2026The WHL held its annual draft this week, with a pair of Arizona natives being selected in the two-day event. WHL Prospects Draft – May 6-7, 20265th round, 101st overall – Aidan Grabner (Scottsdale), F, Wenatchee Wild (Jr. Coyotes 14U) 8th round, 170th overall – Peyton Malinski (Chandler), F, Victoria Royals (Jr. Coyotes 14U) —…