Hockey in Arizona: From Youth to High School to the Pros, the Sport Thrives
Hockey in Arizona has seen a remarkable rise in popularity and success, from the grassroots level all the way to the professional ranks. Despite the recent news of the Arizona Coyotes relocating to Salt Lake City, the impact of the NHL team on the growth of hockey in the state cannot be understated.
The youth hockey scene in Arizona has experienced significant growth, with the number of registered players nearly doubling over the past two decades. Programs like the Jr. Coyotes have played a crucial role in developing young talent, with former NHL players now coaching and mentoring the next generation of Arizona hockey stars.
One of the most notable success stories to come out of Arizona hockey is Auston Matthews, the Toronto Maple Leafs forward who honed his skills in the Grand Canyon State before making his mark in the NHL. Matthews’ success has inspired a new wave of young players, including Matthew Knies and Josh Doan, who are making their mark in the professional ranks.
High school hockey in Arizona has also seen a surge in popularity, with the Arizona High School Hockey Association experiencing a significant increase in registration numbers. Despite facing challenges in player distribution, the AHSHA has worked tirelessly to provide opportunities for high school athletes to develop their game and compete at a high level.
The growth of women’s hockey in Arizona has been another success story, with the Arizona Kachinas leading the way in providing opportunities for girls to play the sport. Thanks to initiatives like the Industry Growth Fund, the number of women’s hockey teams in the state has grown significantly, providing a pathway for young female athletes to pursue their hockey dreams.
Overall, the future of hockey in Arizona looks bright, with passionate individuals like Lyndsey Fry leading the charge in growing the sport at all levels. Despite the challenges and obstacles, the momentum behind hockey in the Grand Canyon State shows no signs of slowing down, promising a bright future for the sport in the desert.