April 3, 2012

As the AYHL and its member clubs are coming off a very successful Tier I "AAA" National Tournament run, capturing Gold at Midget 16 and Bantam and Silver at Peewee Tier 1, and several teams making the crossover, we thought it would be a good idea to provide you with some information to help separate fact from fiction.

The AYHL is the original Tier I Hockey League and its been here at the inception of the Tier I system within USA Hockey since the early 1980's. The AYHL has advanced the careers of more hockey players than other league on the East Coast. From the NHL to the NTDP, to college hockey to the USHL, the AYHL's track record for player advancement is the best.

There are some programs that claim they are Tier I or "AAA", but unless they are part of the AYHL, they are not Tier I or "AAA", nor will they be Tier I. So don't be misled but those that are making false claims; hype and high tuition fees are not what Tier I hockey is about.

Speaking of tuition, as an example, the AYHL average tuition for Midget 16 "AAA is $4600; ice costs, number of tournaments effects can very the price from club to club. Yet some Midget teams pretending to be "AAA" are requiring tuitions in excess of $7500, so begs the question, what would make a midget team nearly $3000 higher than the AYHL average? Here are some possible reasons; more profit for the owner, overpaid coaches, player scholarships or to help fund the expenses for other teams, such a Junior team. Note that ‘scholarships’ to play travel hockey are a potential landmine and can jeopardize NCAA eligibility if not implemented properly. If you are offered assistance, you should consult someone away from your club to ensure you do not endanger your eligibility.

The AYHL and its member clubs takes great pride in the responsibility of being the premier Tier I league in this region. While every Club has their own unique approach to how they run their programs, there is one common thread that is paramount to all of them and that is providing the best possible experience for our players, so that can have the confidence and skills that are required to bring their game to the next level.... that is our 30 year history and track record.

The AYHL is thrilled about all of our successes in the recent and past National Championships. But that is only one small part of our record. Our tried and trusted approach to player development is unparalleled. That's why so many clubs want to be part of the AYHL and why so many want to emulate the AYHL.

We know that the tryout period can be stressful for some families. But some choices in hockey don't have to be that difficult. Hype and high tuitions don't make for better hockey players.... track record and history of performance are usually the best indicators. The AYHL has the best player development coaches and its programs are among the top performers in country... is there any league on the East Coast can make that claim?

We wish all our families best of luck during the 2012 tryouts.