Ultimate Goalie Showdown has Arizona hockey family coming together to help one of its own
It’s often been said that it’s a small world, and once hockey gets thrown into the mix, that world gets even smaller.
In the hockey world, every one is family. And sometimes, that family shows up in ways that go far beyond the rink.
Last summer, Valentino “Tino” Beckmann was living every young hockey player’s dream. Fresh off making the AHU Knights 8U travel team, he was ready to hit the ice when life threw him an unexpected challenge. Tino landed in the Phoenix Children’s ICU, fighting a battle no seven-year-old should have to face.
But the hockey community rallied.
Former NHL goaltender Eddie Läck heard about Tino’s fight and sent him a heartfelt video message — goalie to goalie. When Eddie found out Tino’s favorite team was the New Jersey Devils, he took it one step further and had Devils star Jesper Bratt send Tino a personal message too.
The story didn’t end there. Eddie showed up in person at an AHU Knights practice to surprise Tino, who handed Eddie a special gift. That day sparked a friendship between Eddie and Tino’s dad, Ryan Beckmann, built on hockey, hope, and a lot of
The wager? $500.
Not long after, a playful back-andforth in a group text with a mutual friend turned into a bold bet. Ryan, who had never worn goalie pads in his life, claimed he could stop Eddie in a shootout. Eddie fired back, betting he could go 5-for-5 as a player.
But it didn’t stop there.
Eddie suggested turning their friendly bet into something bigger. “Might as well just write the check to Canucks for Kids now,” he joked, noting the charity he founded.
And with that, the Ultimate Goalie
Showdown was born.
Coming up on Tuesday night, June 17 at 7 p.m. at AZ Ice Gilbert and streaming online, Eddie and Ryan will face off in a one-of-a-kind shootout to raise money for causes close to their hearts. Fans can donate to Canucks for Kids, or Ryan’s charity, Puck Support — or bet on who they think will come out on top. A portion of the proceeds will also support Tino’s AHU Knights 8U team.
Celebrities have also committed to the evening as Pete Lenes (Swaggy P), Pat Shea from the “Full Ride” YouTube series and Olly and Jacob from “On the Bench” will be in attendance.
And because the hockey family always finds a way to give more, a silent auction will run alongside the event, with all proceeds benefiting these incredible causes.
This is more than a game. It’s a celebration of the hockey community’s strength, generosity, and love. Join us for a day of fun, laughter, competition, and giving back — because in hockey, we never skate alone.
Be part of the story. Donate, bet, bid, or cheer us on. Together, we win.
For more information, visit www. lackcantscore.com.
AHU goalie Tino Beckmann, former NHL goaltender Eddie Läck and Ryan Beckmann get ready to take the ice. Photo/Arizona Hockey Union laughs.
LA-area St. John Bosco Prep program shooting to be ‘a highly desirable place to play and develop’
After a successful 2024-25 season, the St. John Bosco Prep high school program is aiming to make its second season of 2025-26 bigger and better than what the inaugural team created.
And with last year’s team making it to the semifinals of the USA Hockey Youth Nationals, the sky is the limit.
Jack Baker, Bosco Prep’s manager of hockey operations, said the biggest component of the program is providing opportunities to high-end, talented players.
“We finished third at nationals behind Fairmont Prep and Shattuck-St. Mary’s, so as a team, we saw some success,” Baker said. “For our players, we provided many of them the opportunities to get in front of junior teams and coaches and several of them will be moving on to those programs. During the year, we sent several players to go spend a week with USHL and NAHL teams, practicing with them, working out with them, seeing some games and giving them the full exposure of what the ‘next level’ is all about. Lucas Jensen was drafted to Sioux City of the USHL and we have more players who anticipate signing or getting drafted by teams in the NAHL like the Colorado Grit, a team that we formed a great relationship with this year.
“By making these connections for the kids, we put them in a spot to seize an opportunity, and they did. I have no doubt that we’ll start seeing our players end up on junior and college rosters in the near future. Schools like Fairmont Prep are also sending players into the WHL, BCHL and college, so we’re proving that California prep teams can move kids into the leagues they want to be in.”
The founders of the Bosco Prep program, formerly known as the Frontier Selects, are Jason Stewart and Justin Reynolds, both native Canadians. Stewart started the very successful Northern Alberta Xtreme program in 2013 and wanted to bring a similar model here to California, which didn’t have many comprehen-
sive “prep” programs.
“That’s essentially a model of school, hockey, off-ice, all combined together,” explained Baker. “Both Jason and Justin are still our directors, running operations from up in Canada. I’m here in Los Angeles, so I handle any and everything here. I played prep school hockey in Boston (Thayer Academy) and played four years at Boston University, followed by a few years in the AHL and ECHL, so I’ve gone through ‘the path’ and have a good idea of what it’s supposed to look like.
“One thing we’re focused on is the talent out here in California, so in order for this to be really successful and sustainable, we need to bring in that talent to our program. Having local players means other local players take notice and we become more exposed to that local talent market. We’re also a program that wants to bring kids in and develop them over multiple years, so there’s no worries about having to try out every year. This is obviously different than traditional California models and it’s that difference that many people are seeking. Actual development year after year is what will hopefully make us more enticing.”
Bosco Prep currently plays in the ADHSHL (Anaheim Ducks High
School Hockey League), and competes as a partner program in Canada’s top academy league, the CSSHL (Canadian Sports School Hockey League), which sees the highest number of CHL-drafted kids in Western Canada than any other league. New for the 2025-26 season, Bosco Prep will also be exploring the newly developed Elite Prospects Academy Series which features some of the best prep programs from across both Canada and the United States.
“We run into struggles out here, though, as most of the teams in our league don’t follow a similar prepmodel, where our players only play for us,” Baker said. “Many other teams have their players still playing AAA hockey as well, which we believe impacts their ability to create a truly comprehensive development model for young players, and also causes some scheduling issues. Our dream would be to have a West Coast or California prep league where every team has fully committed players who only play for their high school team like Fairmont. That’s a model that’s followed in many other states like Massachusetts and Minnesota and seems to work really well. For many reasons, that model has not been fully embraced out here. Schools like us and Fairmont Prep
are leading the way out here with Fairmont having blazed the trail for many years. We would love to have more full-prep programs in California and we believe it would provide a strong alternative to the norm and prevent more local players from leaving the state in pursuit of this model.” Baker added that having a strong program on the West Coast like Bosco Prep can end the stigma of having to leave the state for prep hockey.
“Too often, people think if an East Coast team is recruiting them that it automatically means it’s a great program and they’re going to go to NCAA D-I or Major Junior guaranteed -- that’s very far from the truth,” said Baker. “There are tons of programs on the East Coast and not all of them are run well. Many of them don’t focus on development and many do not move the kids onto that ‘next level.’ We’re trying to do something out here and we want people to understand that our program is truly focused on the holistic development of players and helping them to pursue their dreams on the ice and in the classroom.
“It’s not about championships and being able to hang banners and all that. If you’re running the program the right way, those accolades will come.”
Moving forward, Baker noted that “our vision for the program is to have this be a premiere destination for prep hockey, not just on the West Coast, but across the whole country.”
“The point is that if we can harness all the talent on the West Coast and mix in some international talent as well, then there’s no reason that we can’t be a highly desirable place to play and develop, Baker said. “It’s already been proven. We just need more players to trust in this model and realize the actual benefits to this model as opposed to the rat race of following the traditional norm, which can be very stressful for the kids and parents.”
For more information, visit www. boscoprep.com.
St. John Bosco Prep players celebrate a goal during the 2024-25 season. Photo/St. John Bosco Prep Hockey
Words from the publisher... Follow Rubber Hockey 24/7
Wow. It’s May.
I say this every month, but time flies when you’re having fun.
Regular seasons are done, save for junior hockey and pro hockey, and we are nearing the Memorial Day holiday, which I have always considered the unofficial start of summer.
Now, hockey never stops, but the offseason is a time to regroup and recharge for the next season that is really right around the corner.
We have had a slew of junior hockey drafts lately and we’ll have all those names in our June edition
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Matt Mackinder
once the two NAHL drafts take place next month. A few weeks back, we learned that the NHL’s Utah Hockey Club will now be known as the Utah Mammoth going forward. This is outstanding. What a great name!
And the logo and jerseys are top-notch, too.
The team itself wasn’t bad this past season, but with players like Clayton Keller,
Logan Cooley, Tij Iginla and Josh Doan, watch out. This team will be fun to watch for years to come.
As we get into these up-
coming summer months, take the time to savor each moment with family and friends. Time does not slow down for anything.
Our middle child graduates next week and will head to college in August on a partial bowling scholarship. Pretty exciting!
It’s just that, at times, I still see him as that bright blond-haired kid playing with his WWE action figures and making random videos that would make us cry from laughing so hard.
Again, time flies.
On a business note, we go 12 months a year with Rubber. Years ago when we were printing, we took June and August off, but these days, we are 24/7/365, baby.
Want to join the program? Call/text (248) 890-3944 or email me at mackindermedia@yahoo. com. -- Matt
Jr. Coyotes, Thunderbirds alum, Mesa native Hansen uses EHL play to garner NCAA D-III commitment to UMass Dartmouth
Nick Hansen, a goaltender for the EHL’s Providence Capitals, has committed to NCAA Division III UMass Dartmouth.
An 04’ out of Mesa, Hansen spent three years in the EHL, the most recent being his best. In 2024-25, Hansen set career highs in wins (16), save percentage (.916), and minutes (1407). He also represented the Capitals at the EHL All Star College Series, suiting up for the Mid-Atlantic team.
“I’m beyond excited for Nick’s opportunity to play at UMass Dartmouth for the next several seasons,” said Capitals head coach Jeff Perreault. “Nick was one of my first recruits in the EHL three seasons ago. He offers a very steady game between the pipes and never lets the moment get the best of him. He’s an amazing person both on and off the
Providence Capitals goalie Nick Hansen took his game to a new level in the EHL and is off to NCAA hockey. Photo/Rob Rasmussen/@p8photos
ice and a locker room favorite. Good luck, kid!”
The Corsairs are chock full of EHL alumni, and Hansen won’t go alone for this year’s class. He will be joined by Providence teammates Alex Pagliari and Brogan Shea.
“I’m honored and excited to announce my commitment to UMass Dartmouth,” Hansen said. “I would like to thank my family, friends, and teammates who have helped me along the way to reach my goal. I wouldn’t have been able to do it without them. Also, a special thanks to coach Jeff Perreault and Benny for everything they have done for me. I’m excited for the future and everything that UMass Dartmouth has to offer.”
Hansen played for the Jr. Coyotes and Colorado Thunderbirds during his youth hockey career..
Vista native Arcibal hired as new head coach, GM for EHL’s Nor’easter franchise
The EHL’s Connecticut Nor’Easter has announced the hiring of Nielsson Arcibal as the program’s new general manager and head coach ahead of the 2025–26 season.
Arcibal will also serve as vice president of hockey operations at the International Skating Center of Connecticut, overseeing broader program development and player advancement initiatives.
“We’re excited to welcome Nielsson to the Nor’Easter family,” said CT Nor’Easter Jr. Hockey governor Adam Westhaver. “He brings a rare combination of playing experience, coaching acumen, and leadership ability. He’s a coach who values structure and discipline – qualities that are critical to creating a winning environment. His understanding of what it takes to develop players and
build a strong, competitive culture aligns perfectly with our goals as an organization.”
Arcibal brings a deep and diverse hockey background to the Nor’Easter, most recently serving as the video coach for the AHL’s Hartford Wolf Pack for the 2024–25 season. Prior to his AHL role, he spent two seasons with NCAA Division I American International College – his alma mater – as director of hockey operations and then as an assistant coach.
A Vista native, Arcibal’s playing career began in the NAHL, where he captured a league title with the Texas Tornado in 2006. He also played in the USHL with the Des Moines Buccaneers.
Arcibal went on to play four years at AIC, serving as captain his senior season and graduating as the program’s alltime Division I assists leader. He still ranks in the top 10 in career points for the Yellow Jackets.
Professionally, Arcibal competed in Sweden, the ECHL and SPHL, and won gold medals with Team USA at the IIHF Inline Hockey World Championships in both 2013 and 2017.
ing by example,” Westhaver said. “We believe he’s the right person to help elevate our program to the next level, both in terms of onice performance and player advancement. We’re thrilled to have him leading the charge.”
“Nielsson has a deep passion for the game and a track record of lead-
In addition to his college and pro experience, Arcibal has coached at the junior level with the USPHL’s Springfield Pics and is the founder and head trainer of ARC Hockey Training, where he works with players across all ages and skill levels to develop elite-level habits and skills.
Nielsson Arcibal
Okanagan Hockey Colorado bringing culture, education, athlete development to state’s youth hockey scene
Nearly three years ago, Okanagan Hockey Colorado joined the ranks of high-end, high-quality youth hockey in the state.
More than hockey, OHC has a model seen in Canada and Europe that provides hockey and academics all in one setting.
“We noticed that there was a trend of Colorado youth hockey players leaving the state to attend prep schools, most of which were on the East Coast,” said Okanagan Hockey Colorado managing director Brooke Wilfley, a co-founder of the program along with former NHL player David Clarkson. “We figured this was, in part, due to the desire to have a better quality of life and an emphasis on academics. However, in order to attend these prep schools, kids were leaving home as young as 13 years old, and the cost was typically quite high. In an effort to find a solution to keep local Colorado kids home, provide families with a culture-first program and provide a traditional education, we began to explore hockey programs throughout the United States and Canada.
“We were quickly drawn to the model that Okanagan was implementing, not just in Canada, but in Europe as well. This model was an elite hockey program that partners with a local public school, providing a prep-like model, but at a fraction of the cost. The student-athletes complete school at 1:30 p.m., are transported to the rink where they practice from 2:30-5 p.m., Monday through Friday, with training completed, for most of our teams, everyday at 5 p.m. With this model, student-athletes have access to a traditional education, are able to have family dinners, complete homework, and have a consistent routine.”
In August of 2022, OHC began with just one team, a 14U team, and a roster of 17. In 2023-24, 13O and 15O teams were added and this past season, 16U and 18U teams joined the mix.
Overall, the program has made an impact in the state in a relatively short amount of time.
“We believe that we have done our best to help support positive op-
portunity for Colorado youth hockey players,” said Wilfley. “In the past three seasons, we have had four teams advance to districts and two teams advance to nationals. We have 23 players drafted or listed in the WHL, and of those 23, 19 of them are Colorado players. Additionally, we have had 12 players drafted in the USHL, 11 of whom are Colorado players. Lastly, we have several play-
“More importantly, over 85% of our youth athletes made honor roll this past season.”
Keeping players in Colorado is a source of pride for OHC, too.
“The majority of our players are from Colorado, and this is something that we are proud of and that is important to us,” Wilfley said. “We have had increasing outside interest from players throughout the U.S., as
Okanagan players scrimmage at Family Sports Center in Centennial during the 2024-25 season. Photo/Okanagan Hockey Colorado
ers currently playing or tendered in the NAHL, all of whom are Colorado players. At state camp this season, we had 40 Colorado players advance to district camp from our program. We have had nine players advance from districts to national camp, eight of whom were Colorado players. We also have had two NCAA Division I commits.
well as Canada and other countries. The feedback we have received from families looking to join our program from other locations is that they are impressed with the culture, quality of coaching, and that there is a traditional education component.”
Regarding college commitments, junior hockey drafts and team success, Wilfley noted how that reflects
Liam Lane is stopping pucks in ‘24-25 for the EHL’s New York Apple Core. Photo/ Edward Jacobs
on coaching and organization leadership.
“Our goal to develop a culture-first program, we believe, is achieved based on the passion and commitment of the OHC coaching staff,” said Wilfley. “David Clarkson wanted to find ways to give back to the game that gave so much to him. He was led by this desire to give back and for his passion to help kids. After playing 12 years in the NHL, coaching gave Clarkson a connection to the game that he had lost when he stopped playing. He came to find out that he wasn’t alone. There were several players that had played in the NHL, AHL, NCAA, etcetera, that missed the game and the connection they had with teammates, who shared their love of the game. Clarkson has created an amazing environment where our staff of ex-players can work together, collaborate and build something special. This talented coaching staff leads through a desire to do something good for kids, and to give back to the game of hockey.
“We believe this selfless passion and commitment, combined with the immense knowledge and talent of having a staff that has played the game at the highest level, is what has contributed to the success of our players and culture.”
Moving forward, the overall vision of OHC is “to provide pathways and opportunities, founded in the philosophy of whole child development, for youth hockey athletes in Colorado.”
“We want to partner with families to help support the development of good people, support traditional education, and help student-athletes pursue their goals in hockey,” said Wilfley. “We want to encourage our student-athletes to use their talent and passion in hockey to leverage their academic opportunities. After three years of growth, we are looking forward to focusing on the five teams that we have and striving to get better each year for our OHC families. We are also looking for ways to further help our families through partnerships and collaborations and to provide our student-athletes with the highest level of care and development.”
ECHL expansion franchise approved for New Mexico as Rio Rancho club to begin play with 2026-27 season
The ECHL announced May 1 that the league’s board of governors has approved the expansion application of Rio Rancho, N.M., for admittance into the league.
The club will begin play in the 2026-27 season.
REV Entertainment’s Sports Management division will oversee all team operations. The Dallas Stars will serve as hockey operations consultants to REV Entertainment for the launch of the team. REV currently operates two teams in the American Association of Professional Baseball – the Cleburne Railroaders and Kane County Cougars – and previously served as a managing partner for the ECHL’s Allen Americans.
The team’s official name will be determined through a “Name the Team” contest, now open to fans at
The Rio Rancho Events Center is a 7,000-seat arena located less than 30 miles from Albuquerque. Photo/ECHL.com
NMProHockey.com.
“It is with great pleasure that the league welcomes REV Entertainment, and the New Mexico region, to the ECHL as our 31st member team, as we progress the growth of the League to align with the National Hockey League and American Hockey League,” said ECHL commissioner Ryan Crelin. “REV has a proven track record of managing professional sports teams at the highest level, and we are thrilled with their commitment to bring professional hockey back to the state of New Mexico.
“This expansion speaks to the growth of our game throughout the continent and will be an exciting addition to our rivalries in the Mountain Division, and a geographic fit for affiliation development.”
Grit star, Thunderbirds grad Rioux heading to Ivy League hockey, academic career at NCAA Division I Brown
Sheldon Rioux played 71 regularseason games the past two years with the NAHL’s Colorado Grit and made an impact, both on and off the ice.
Two seasons from now, the Vald’Or, QC, native and Colorado Thunderbirds graduate will start his NCAA Division I career in the Ivy League after recently committing to Brown.
“Brown reached to me and spoke with me first at the NAHL Top Prospects event where I was representing the NAHL Selects team,” said Rioux, who now calls Aurora home after moving there in July 2022. “We spoke briefly throughout the weeks following but they mostly dealt with my advisor Dennis Maxwell. Then a couple weeks later, I got the call that they were offering me and it was a no brainer.
“Brown is a prestigious university with great academics and athletics, and I couldn’t be more proud to be-
Sheldon Rioux developed his overall game in 2024-25 with the NAHL’s Colorado Grit.
Photo/Kristi Lourance
come a Bear.”
Rioux said he is planning to enter Brown with the 2027-28 season.
“What appealed to me was Brown’s hot season last year,” Rioux said. “They were one win away from the tournament this year and teams in their division (ECAC Hockey) such as Cornell beat teams like Michigan State. So in my opinion, Brown is right where they want to be in a good and tough division with great talent and competition.
“Obviously on the academic side, it was always my dream to go to an Ivy League school. My parents always pushed me to get straight As throughout my academic career and it paid off. Brown is known for their academics and whatever I decide to study I’m going to come out of the university with an amazing and prestigious degree.”
More at CORubberHockey.com & ColoradoHockey.net!
Anaheim Hills native, Jr. Ducks, Jr. Gulls alum Mayhew named 2024-25 ECHL Defenseman of the Year
The ECHL has announced that Kyle Mayhew of the Fort Wayne Komets is the ECHL Defenseman of the Year for 2024-25 as determined in a vote of ECHL coaches, broadcasters, media relations directors and media members.
The award is presented annually to the defensive player who demonstrates throughout the season the greatest all-around ability in the position.
Derek Daschke of Utah finished second, followed by Savannah’s Dennis Cesana, Connor Welsh of Worcester and Idaho’s Matt Register.
Named to the All-ECHL First Team last week, Mayhew, an Anaheim
Hills native, was tied for seventh among ECHL defensemen with 11 goals, third with 41 assists and fourth with 52 points in 60 games this season. He led all blueliners – and was tied for fourth overall in the league – with 27 power-play points, while ranking second with 22 power-play assists and third with five power-play goals.
Mayhew was loaned to Bakersfield of the American Hockey League on March 18, and he has posted seven points (goal, six assists) in 13 games with the Condors.
Back in California, Mayhew skated for the Anaheim Jr. Ducks, San Diego Jr. Gulls and Villa Park High School.
Kyle Mayhew helped the Fort Wayne Komets to the ECHL Kelly Cup Playoffs this season. Photo/Josh Gales/Fort Wayne Komets
NAPHL TO NAHL: Two California natives - Riley Schmitz/Winchester (pictured above) and Will Harker/Pleasanton (pictured right) - spent the 2024-25 season in the NAPHL T1ER League and recently signed NAHL tenders for the 2025-26 season, Schmitz with the Johnstown Tomahawks and Harker with the North Iowa Bulls. Read more on both players at CARubberHockey.com. Photos/NAHL
Glendale native, Golden Bears, Jr. Ducks, Jr. Kings alum Avakyan commits to NCAA Division I Clarkson
Johnstown Tomahawks goaltender Nick Avakyan has announced his commitment to play NCAA Division I hockey at Clarkson (ECAC Hockey).
A native of Glendale, Avakyan has been a key contributor for the Tomahawks since joining the NAHL team in November. He appeared in 25 games this season, recording a 137-3 record with an impressive 2.41 goals-against average and a .925 save percentage. He also earned a shutout and provided a strong, reliable presence in the net.
“I’d like to thank the Johnstown Tomahawks organization for welcoming me with open arms from the moment I got here,” said Avakyan. “The coaching staff has done an unbelievable job with my development on the ice and especially mentally. Nick Mish has worked with me every day and enhanced my skills and goaltending knowledge. My teammates have battled hard and gave me the
Nick Avakyan put up solid numbers during the 2024-25 season playing for the NAHL’s Johnstown Tomahawks. Photo/Phil Andraychak/ pagc221g@aol.com
opportunity to shine. This is a team achievement if anything.”
Before his time in Johnstown, Avakyan spent three seasons in the WHL with the Tri-City Americans and Portland Winterhawks. His performance this year also earned him a call-up to the USHL’s Sioux City Musketeers.
“I’m so happy and proud of Nick. This commitment is a true testament to his relentless work ethic and the dedication he brings every single day,” said Johnstown coach and general manager Jared Kersner. “Since joining our team, he’s been outstanding – everything you look for in a goaltender. He brings a calming presence, controls the pace of the game, manages rebounds, catches cleanly with both his glove and body, and possesses elite puck handling skills.”
In California, Avakyan played for the California Golden Bears, Anaheim Jr. Ducks and Los Angeles Jr. Kings.
HEADING WEST: California products Enzo DiDomenicantonio (Los Angeles, pictured left) and Gavin Burcar (Coto de Caza, pictured above) recently signed deals to play junior hockey in the WHL. DiDomenicantonio inked with the Lethbridge Hurricanes and Burcar with the Spokane Chiefs. Read more on both players at CARubberHockey.com. DiDomenicantonio photo/ Lethbridge Hurricanes & Burcar photo/Chicago Mission
Grit standout, Arvada product Grolnic chooses NCAA D-III Augsburg as college hockey destination
Noah Grolnic played his youth hockey in Colorado and wrapped up his junior hockey days with the NAHL’s Colorado Grit.
Next season, the Arvada native will play NCAA Division III hockey for Augsburg, a MIAC school in Minneapolis, Minn.
“I am super excited to continue my hockey and academic career and start my next chapter at Augsburg University,” said Grolnic, one of seven members of the 2024-25 Grit team to make a college hockey commitment this season. “Thanks to my family, friends and coaches who have helped me along my journey.”
Grolnic is a third-year skater in the NAHL, spending the last two seasons with the Grit. This season, he returned to the Grit lineup in late January after spending the first half of the season in the BCHL between two squads. Since his return to the Colorado ice, he has tallied 11 assists
Noah Grolnic saw his game blossom over his two seasons with the NAHL’s Colorado Grit. Photo/ Kristi Lourance
over 21 contests.
Last season he was acquired by the Grit from the Chippewa Steel in December. In the 34 matchups with Colorado, he found the back of the net 12 times, added 12 assists, and scored three goals on the man advantage.
During his time with the Chippewa Steel in the 2023-2024 season, he laced up in 26 games for the squad, scoring six goals and seven assists.
Grolnic played an entire season in Chippewa during the 2022-23 season, putting up eight goals, 12 assists, and a plus-8 rating. In that same season, Grolnic got the experience of heading to the Robertson Cup with the Steel and in three games, produced one assist.
During his youth hockey days, Grolnic played for the Arvada Hockey Association, Ralston Valley High School and the Colorado Thunderbirds.
Santa Ana native, Jr. Ducks grad Zaccari tabbed NCDC Defenseman of the Year for ’24-25 season
The National Collegiate Development Conference is proud to announce that the South Shore Kings co-captain Jason Zaccari has been named 2024-25 New England Division Defenseman of the Year, as voted in by the division’s coaches.
“It’s a great honor to receive this award and I’m very grateful to all the coaches that voted for me. I couldn’t have done this without my teammates. They are the ones that pushed me every day to be the best version of myself at the rink and they allowed me to showcase what I can do during the season,” said Zaccari, a 2005-born native of Santa Ana and an Anaheim Jr. Ducks graduate.
Zaccari, who is committed to the NCAA’s Trinity College for next season, finished this past regular season with an 8-35-43 line in 48 games. With 73 points in 97 career games, he
is the Kings’ all-time leading scorer at the defense position.
“I think I brought a two-way styled defenseman who likes to transition the puck from the defensive side to offense and looks to join the rush. I take a lot of pride in both sides of the rink and I believe that was key to our success the last two seasons,” said Zaccari. “We were such a fast team and when we played with pace, our game was as good as anyone’s and I’m just glad I could be a part of that for two seasons.”
He first joined the Kings in 202324, joining from the NAHL’s Lone Star Brahmas. He began to make an impact right away en route to helping the Kings to their first Dineen Cup Championship.
Read more at CARubberHockey.com!
Jason Zaccari donned the ‘C’ during the 2024-25 season for the NCDC’s South Shore Kings. Photo/NCDCHockey.com
LHA alum, Highlands Ranch native Watson chooses NCAA D-III Saint Mary’s as college landing spot
The NA3HL’s Minnesota Moose have announced that captain Reid Watson has committed to play NCAA D-III hockey for Saint Mary’s. Watson spentboth seasons of his junior hockey career in the NA3HL, most recently with the first-year Moose program.
A native of Highlands Ranch, he made a significant impact on the scoresheet, racking up 94 points (40 goals, 54 assists) over 99 games in the league. He took a big step forward in his second season, boosting his point total by nearly 20 and finishing the 2024–25 campaign with 54 points, averaging over a point per game.
One of Watson’s standout performances came on Feb. 14, when he powered the Moose to a 7–4 win over the Willmar WarHawks by scoring two goals, including the game winner and adding two assists in a dominant outing.
serving as team captain in 2024-25 for the Minnesota Moose. Photo/NAHL
Recognized for his leadership and offensive prowess, Watson earned a spot in the 2025 NA3HL Top Prospects Tournament, where he scored a goal and two assists, representing the Moose as their leading scorer.
“Reid’s character and resolve are a major part of why our team turned it around in the second half of the season,” Moose head coach Todd Sanden said. “He developed into a true 200-foot centerman, dominating the faceoff circle, taking care in the defensive zone, and producing offense regularly for us. Saint Mary’s is getting a player in Reid, who has more development to achieve and will work hard to reach it. He’s nowhere near his ceiling and will be a player that Coach Egan can rely on daily.”
Growing up, Watson played for the Littleton Hawks from Squirt C all the way to 18U. He also double-rostered with Mountain Vista High School in 2022-23.
Kyle Miller
Reid Watson played two seasons in the NA3HL,
Okanagan grad, Arvada native Silaban moves up hockey ladder, inks with WHL’s Wild
The WHL’s Wenatchee Wild has announced that 2008-born forward Mathias Silaban has signed with the organization.
A native of Arvada, Silaban signed with the Wild following his season with Okanagan Hockey Colorado in suburban Denver.
“Everything’s happened so quickly, but they’ve been so understanding and been there for my family,” said Silaban. “I don’t come from a hockey family, so they’ve helped my parents understand the whole process and given me clarification. They were willing to take a chance on me, and that’s the biggest opportunity.”
Silaban excelled this past season in his first year with the Okanagan program, notching 17 goals and 36 assists for 53 points over 30 games. He
previously played two years with the Rocky Mountain RoughRiders AAA program, registering better than a point-per-game average in 41 appearances at the 15O level last season. At the 14U level, he posted 98 points in 63 games during the 2022-23 campaign.
“Mathias came back strong from an early-season injury, and was among the leaders in points per game for his OHC squad,” said Wild director of scouting Leigh Mendelson. “He combines good size and mobility with good offensive instincts and a high compete level. He is a young man who knows what he is as a player and will put in the work to continue to develop with our staff as he adjusts to the WHL.”
Broomfield alum, BHC, RoughRiders alum Lindstrom commits to NCAA Division III UMass Boston
Forward Jake Lindstrom of the NCDC’s Worcester Railers Junior Hockey Club worked hard this season to earn an NCAA Division III commitment to UMass Boston for the 2025-26 season.
Lindstrom, a Broomfield native, played seven games for the Jersey Hitmen during the 2023-24 season before going to play for the New York Apple Core in the EHL. After being in communication with head coach Sean Bertoni over the summer, Lindstrom signed with the Railers this season and was a key asset for them all year.
In 54 regular-season games, Lindstrom put up 45 points (11 goals, 34 assists) and is thankful for his time spent there.
“I had a great experience with the Worcester Railers,” said Lindstrom. “Coach Bertoni put a big emphasis
Jake Lindstrom excelled this past season for the NCDC’s Worcester Railers Junior Hockey Club. Photo/NCDCHockey.com
on preparing us for college and playing a college-style game. He, along with coaches John Fine-Lease and Tyson Araujo, helped me grow not just as a player, but also as a person off the ice. I decided to sign with Worcester this season because of Coach Bertoni. We stayed in touch throughout the summer, and his winning mindset and track record really made me want to be part of what he’s building.”
Lindstrom began contact with UMass Boston in late February when assistant coach Ty Amonte came to watch him play.
“Coach Amonte was the first to see me play and he said he really liked my skating, compete level, and hockey IQ,” said Lindstrom. Growing up, Lindstrom played for the Boulder Hockey Club and the Rocky Mountain RoughRiders.
Mathias Silaban signs his WHL contract with the Wenatchee Wild.
Photo/Wenatchee Wild
Okanagan product, Parker native Makowski signs NAHL tender with Grit for 2025-26 campaign
Connor Makowski was born in the Dallas area, developed his game in Colorado, and has a couple junior hockey options for the 2025-26 season, including one with the NAHL’s Colorado Grit.
Makowski has also been listed by the WHL’s Regina Pats and played at the team’s rookie camp last September. The Parker native has also signed an NAHL tender with the Grit.
“It all started my 15U year, my first year at Okanagan Hockey Academy,” said Makowski. “I went there looking to grow my game and help myself get to be the player I want to be. With that, my coaches were a big part of it getting my name out there and helping me get to the next level. Then my 16U year at OHC, I was focused on our team winning games and having another great season. Personally though, I was trying my best every
day to get better by pushing myself so I can reach the next level and be able to compete and stand out. This past season was huge in my development. I feel like I got so much better this past season and it was just a great time. The team was great and everyone made me compete even harder. My coaches have helped me to get this tender so much and they are a big part of why I got the chance to tender there.
“The team is new, and I’ve seen so much of the cool stuff that they do and it looks like a great atmosphere up there in Greeley. All the players up there are so skilled and the team made it to playoffs this season for their first time and I am hoping I can help the team to make it to playoffs next year. Another big part was that it is still in Colorado and I wouldn’t be super far from home, which is great.”
Born in Plano Tex., Makowski and his family moved to Parker when he was four years old.
“My dad took me to a hockey shop and I tried on some inline skates and I just loved it,” Makowski said. “I started playing inline hockey for a couple of years and then I made the switch to ice hockey and never looked back.”
Makowski started playing with the Arapahoe Warriors for two years of 8U. He then went to the Littleton Hawks for his last year of 8U hockey and stayed through his 14U AA year.
“The best coaches I had there were all of them, but the ones who really helped me were Jason Gour and Brian TenEyck,” said Makowski. “They played a huge role in my development.”
Makowski wound up at OHC for his 15U and 16U years.
Jr. Coyotes alum, Scottsdale product Shephard commits to NCAA Division III Lake Forest
The NAHL’s Watertown Shamrocks have announced that defenseman Will Shephard has committed to play NCAA Division III hockey for Lake Forest College (NCHA).
The Scottsdale native will be heading to skate with the Foresters this fall.
Shepherd is a second-year skater in the NAHL. Last season, he skated with the Anchorage Wolverines in 38 contests. This year the 20-yearold blueliner tallied four goals and 10 assists over 56 matchups with the Shamrocks.
Shamrocks head coach Casey Kirley explains what he has seen from Shepard’s development.
“Lake Forest is getting a fantastic person and player in Will,” Kirley said. “He is a natural leader, both on and off the ice. Will plays with passion and intensity every time he is on the ice and he’s done a great job of growing his offensive side of the game this season. We are proud of Will and look forward to following his career at Lake Forest.”
Back home, Shephard spent time with the Jr. Coyotes.
Will Shephard was a star player in 2024-25 for the NAHL’s Watertown Shamrocks. Photo/NAHL
Connor Makowski has improved his game with Okanagan Hockey Colorado. Photo/Tristan Romero
In Memoriam: Kevin Bruder (1968–2025)
It is with profound sadness that we share the sudden passing of Kevin Bruder, beloved General Manager of the Maverik Center, President & CEO of the Utah Grizzlies, and Chairman of the ECHL Board of Governors.
Kevin passed away on Sunday, May 11, at the age of 56, while enjoying the Utah outdoors. Kevin’s greatest joy was his family, and he is survived by Susan and their four beloved children: Allison, Emily, Joel, and Christopher.
Kevin and his family moved to Utah in 1997 as the Maverik Center—then known as The E-Center— prepared to open its doors and take the international stage as a host venue for ice hockey during the 2002 Winter Olympic Games. Named by the Elmore Sports Group as the arena’s first General Manager, Kevin went on to hold that role for nearly three decades, shaping the Maverik Center
into a cornerstone of sports and entertainment in the region.
In 2005, Kevin was named President & CEO of the Utah Grizzlies, and in 2021, his peers throughout the league elected him Chairman of the ECHL Board of Governors—an honor that spoke to the high regard in which he was held across professional hockey. A tireless advocate for the power of sports and community, Kevin gave generously of his time and talents, volunteering for organizations including Make-A-Wish Utah, Visit Salt Lake, TEAM Coalition, IAVM and dozens more over nearly 30 years. His commitment to civic engagement was matched only by his leadership within the Maverik Center and the Grizzlies organization.
Kevin was deeply admired by his employees, many of whom worked alongside him for decades. He fostered a culture of professionalism,
always quick to celebrate the accomplishments of others and committed to promoting from within. He believed in people, and he created opportunities for countless careers to flourish under his mentorship.
Those who worked with Kevin will remember his presence—quietly steady, yet always fully engaged. Whether supporting his staff, players, promoters, partners, or patrons, Kevin could be found at the arena on nights, weekends, and holidays—doing whatever needed to be done to ensure that others succeeded and felt supported.
Kevin Bruder’s legacy is one of leadership, generosity, and service. He leaves behind a community that was stronger because of him, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing or working alongside him. inclusion, and loyalty—marked by a strong sense of family. He led with integrity, humility, and consistency,
Eagles blueliner MacDonald nabs 2024-25 Eddie Shore Award as AHL’s top defenseman
The AHL has announced that Jacob MacDonald of the Colorado Eagles is the winner of the Eddie Shore Award as the AHL’s outstanding defenseman for the 2024-25 season.
The award was voted on by coaches, players and members of the media representing each of the league’s 32 cities.
MacDonald rewrote the AHL record books in 2024-25 by scoring 31 goals, the most ever by a defenseman in the league’s 89-year history. He added 24 assists to lead all AHL blueliners in scoring with 55 points, equaling his career high, and finished with a plus/minus rating of plus-24 to rank tied for 10th in the entire league.
An alternate captain for the Eagles, MacDonald scored 13 times on the power play and tallied five gamewinning goals for the Eagles, who led the AHL in offense (3.47 goals scored per game) and tied for fourth in defense (2.57 goals allowed per
Jacob MacDonald has been a stalwart on the Colorado Eagles’ back end this season.
game) en route to capturing their first Pacific Division title this season.
A 10th-year pro from Portland, Ore., MacDonald was voted a First Team AHL All-Star in 2024-25, his third postseason All-Star selection after garnering First Team honors in 2017-18 and a Second Team nod in 2019-20.
In 340 career AHL games, MacDonald has totaled 99 goals – tied for seventh-most ever by an AHL defenseman – and 149 assists for 248 points. MacDonald, undrafted out of Cornell University, has also skated in 135 games in the NHL with Florida, Colorado and San Jose, registering 10 goals and 17 assists.
This award was first presented by the AHL in 1958-59 in honor of the late Eddie Shore, a member of both the Hockey Hall of Fame and the American Hockey League Hall of Fame who is widely regarded as one of hockey’s greatest defensemen.
Kevin Bruder
Photo/Kaitlyn Criss/Colorado Eagles
