DETAILS FOR FALL HOUSE SEASON:

The practice schedules will begin the week of September 11th with games starting the first weekend of October.  There will be 40 ice sessions (team practices and skill sessions) and a 20 game house season.  All games will be at Iceland.  Fall registrations will be available the first week of June.  Season dues are $695 for Cross Ice and $995 for all other divisions.  More details to come.

The registration link for the 2023-24 travel teams is now live.  Players selected should register as soon as possible so scheduling can begin.  Any questions can be sent to Coach Casey at caseman68@cox.net

Below are the dates and times for the 2023-2024 Travel and Tournament team tryouts.  Some of the dates had to be rescheduled due to the USA Hockey affiliate rules about when tryouts can begin.  The registration link will be posted Tuesday after it is corrected.  The fee for the tryout sessions is $70 and all players must register to tryout.  Details on the fall travel season are posted below.   Based on registrations and tryout results we will support a full travel team at U10/U12/U14/U16/U18 levels and also Tournament teams at each age level (including HS age) based on the house registrations.  The Tournament team rosters will not be finalized until September practices start for house. 

APRIL 22 SATURDAY 4:30PM- 5:30AM ICELAND    U10

APRIL 22 SATURDAY 5:45PM -6:45PM ICELAND     U12

APRIL 22 SATURDAY 7:00PM- 8:00PM ICELAND     U16 /U18

APRIL 23 SUNDAY 9:15AM- 10:15AM ICELAND       U10

APRIL 23 SUNDAY 12:55PM -1:55PM ICELAND       U16/U18 

APRIL 23 SUNDAY 2:05PM -3:05PM ICELAND          U14

APRIL 24 MONDAY 7:00PM -8:00PM ICELAND        U12

APRIL 25 TUESDAY 8:00PM -9:00PM ICELAND        U14

Spring Pond hockey will be two 20 minute run time periods with a 3 minute warm up.  Penalties should be low but in the event of a penalty a penalty shot will be awarded.  There is NO CONTACT allowed and absolutely no fighting penalties.  Any fighting will be immediate suspension from the Pond Hockey season.  The hockey is designed to be fun and fast moving.  

If we have missed a player name, let casey know at caseman68@cox.net

As you may know we lost a Hryha member in Mid March, Kathy Weeks, mother to Izzie Mitchell (HS team) and Carter Mitchell (Mites) to a medical illness.  Below is the information on the Memorial Service scheduled for Tuesday April 18th if you wish to attend.  Kathy's husband, Master Chief Nate Mitchell is also a member of our Warrior for Life family.  Our sincere condolences to the Mitchell family.

The Memorial Service for Kathy Weeks, devoted wife of SOCM Nate Mitchell, will be held on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, at 12:00pm at the Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek (JEBLC) Chapel. The command will be providing buses to bring all from your prospective organization to the Memorial Service. Attendance to this Memorial Service is expected to be high, so please allow for extra travel time and plan to arrive at the Food Lion Parking lot (address below) on Shore Drive by no later than 1100am. The buses will leave shortly after 1100 so, please relay too all attendees to be punctual as the busses will be only making one trip from the parking lot. Immediately following the Memorial Service, the buses will transport all guest to the reception being held at the SEAL Heritage Center, on JEBLC. Upon completion of the reception (approx. 4pm) the buses will return all attendees back to the Food Lion parking lot.

Food Lion Address

5193 Shore Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23455 (Google Maps link)

What we will require for base access: HRYHA WILL MAINTAIN A LIST OF PEOPLE WHO WOULD LIKE TO ATTEND.  PLEASE EMAIL ME THE FIRST NAME, MIDDLE NAME, AND LAST NAME AND i WILL ADD IT TO THE LIST.  THE DEADLINE IS THURSDAY AT NOON TO SUBMIT SO PLEASE SEND THEM AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE TO RICHAPPLEBY08@GMAIL.COM.

• A list with the full name of all that will be attending from your organization. I have a attached a template for all to follow above but, a simple response to this email chain with full names and company affiliation will suffice. The deadline to get the list to me will be Thursday 13 April at noon. Let me know if there issues or concerns with meeting the deadline.
• Any names not on the final list submitted by the POC’s in the To line will not be permitted on base. Please respond to all when sending the list of names so that all command POC’s (CC’ed) are tracking as well.

 Other items that will need to be adhered to and relayed to attendees: 

• Personal photos/videos will not be allowed at the Memorial Service or at the follow-on reception. Please ensure that all cellphone are left in car prior to loading buses.

• Personal weapons and knives will not be permitted on base. All attendees taking the bus will be required to go through a breif security screening and baggage search prior to loading buses.

Thank you all for assisting us in organizing the Memorial for Kathy Weeks. You are all playing a vital role in allowing the command and the SOCOM community to pay the proper respects for Kathy who has done so much for our Community and Families.

The registration link for the 2023 travel tryouts is below.  All players must register to attend.

Thanks

WE ARE PLEASE TO ANNOUNCE THE PLANS FOR THE UPCOMING 2023-2024 YOUTH HOCKEY PROGRAMS.      HRYHA WILL CONTINUE TO OFFER AFFORDABLE, FUN,       AND LEARNING EXPERIENCES FOR ALL LEVELS OF YOUTH HOCKEY.

FOR 2023-2024 HYRHA WILL OFFER THE FOLLOWING PROGRAMS:

WARRIOR HOUSE REC LEAGUE/HOUSE TOURNAMENT TEAMS

OUR CORE HOUSE PROGRAM WILL CONTINUE WITH SKILLS BASED TRAINING FOR OUR HOUSE TEAMS WITH TWO PRACTICES PER WEEK (40 TOTAL) AND 20 LEAGUE GAMES INCLUDING PLAYOFFS.  TEAMS WILL PLAY IN HOUSE WITH THREE 15 MINUTE STOP TIME PERIODS AS IN PREVIOUS SEASONS.  THE HOUSE PROGRAM BEGINS THE SECOND WEEK OF SEPTEMBER WITH PRACTICES AND GAMES BEGINNING THE FIRST WEEKEND OF OCTOBER.  THE SEASON WILL END THE FIRST WEEKEND OF MARCH WITH PLAYOFFS. 

HOUSE DUES (U10/U12/U14/HS WILL BE $995 WITH $300 AT REGISTRATION AND 3 PYMTS OF $231.67.  HOUSE DUES FOR CROSS ICE MITES WILL BE $695 WITH $200 AT REGISTRATION AND 3 PYMTS $165.

HOUSE TOURNAMENT TEAMS WILL BE OFFERED AT ALL AGE DIVISIONS FOR THOSE PLAYERS THAT WANT TO COMPETE AT A HIGHER LEVEL WITHOUT COMMITIING TO THE DEMANDS AND COSTS OF A TRAVEL PROGRAM.  HOUSE SELECT TEAMS WILL BE FORMED AFTER THE SEASON STARTS AND MAY PLAY UP TO 3 SELECT TOURNAMENTS (B OR LOWER A LEVEL) SCHEDULED DURING THE SEASON.  THERE WILL BE PRACTICES SCHEDULED TO SUPPORT THE TOURNAMENT DATES. THIS PROGRAM IS ONLY OPEN TO HOUSE REC PLAYERS. 

SELECT DUES WILL BE $795 WITH $300 AT REGISTRATION AND 3 PYMTS OF $165.

                                             WARRIOR TRAVEL

WARRIOR PROGRAMS-WE ARE ADDING ENHANCEMENTS TO THE WARRIOR PROGRAM DESIGNED FOR PLAYERS WHO WANT TO PLAY AT A HIGHER COMPETITIVE LEVEL

WARRIOR TRAVEL TEAMS-

THIS YEAR THE WARRIOR PROGRAM WILL BE ENHANCED TO PROVIDE TRAVEL HOCKEY AT THE U10, U12, U14, AND U16 LEVELS.  THE PLACEMENT OF THE TEAMS AS TO A OR AA WILL BE DETERMINED BASED ON THE PLAY-IN EVALUATION TOURNAMENTS IN AUGUST.   THE WARRIOR TRAVEL TEAMS WILL PLAY IN THE CAROLINA HOCKEY LEAGUE AND ALSO 5 OUTSIDE TOURNAMENTS.  THE TRAVEL TEAMS WILL PRACTICE TWICE A WEEK AND HAVE A 35-40 GAME SCHEDULE.  ALL TRYOUTS WILL BE SCHEDULED IN APRIL AND PRACTICES WILL BEGIN IN AUGUST WITH THE SEASON ENDING THE FIRST WEEKEND OF MARCH.  (TRAVEL PLAYERS WILL NOT PARTICIPATE IN THE HOUSE PROGRAM).  THE TRYOUT DATES WILL BE POSTED SOON AND THERE WILL BE TWO SESSIONS.  THE TRYOUTS ARE $70 AND ALL PLAYERS WILL BE REQUIRED TO REGISTER ONLINE. 

TRAVEL DUES WILL BE $2395 WITH $500 AT REGISTRATION AND  PAYMENTS OF $473.75.

THE MITE DIVISION WILL SUPPORT JAMBOREE A AND B TEAMS BASED ON REGISTRATIONS AS WELL AS A U6 TOURNAMENT OPTION. THERE WILL BE UP TO 4 TOURNAMENTS PLUS 24 PRACTICES.  DUES ARE $895 WITH $300 AT REGISTRATION AND 4 PAYMENTS OF $148.75

ALL TEAMS, HOUSE REC, TOURNAMENT, TRAVEL, AND JAMBOREE WILL PLAY UNDER THE WARRIOR BANNER.  NEW HOUSE JERSEYS ORDERED IN THE FUTURE WILL HAVE THE WARRIOR LOGO. THE HOUSE JERSEYS WILL CONTINUE WITH THE RED AND WHITE AND THE TRAVEL TEAMS WILL CONTINUE TO WEAR THE WARRIOR TRAVEL JERSEYS.  WE WANTED TO GET THIS INFORMATION OUT SO EVERYONE CAN HAVE THE INFORMATION THEY HAVE ASKED FOR TO MAKE INFORMED DECISIONS.

THE APRIL TRAVEL TRYOUT DATES WILL BE ANNOUNCED SOON.  THERE WILL BE TWO SESSIONS AND THE COST IS $70. THE REGISTRATION WILL BE READY SOON.

Congratulations to the HR3 U10 team and the HR1 U13 team for winning the EVHL playoffs.  Thanks to all the HRYHA and PYHA teams for their strong efforts in the playoffs.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 25TH 10:00AM

Spring Pond Hockey registration is now available.  The Spring Pond Hockey season will begin Tuesday April 17th.  This is a 8 game season.  Games will be two periods of 20 minute run time.  Players will be assigned to teams one week prior to games beginning.  Pond Hockey is a free flowing game with no body contact.  

There is a 20 player limit for each age division.  

Due to an expected large turnout, registrations are only open to existing house players from HRYHA , PYHA, Chilled Ponds,  including players from the Learn to Play programs that are ready.   Also players playing on Warrior teams are eligible to register. Registrations will close Friday April 14th.

Cost is $155 for Mites and $195 for all other age groups.

Full time goalies will be no charge.

More information will be posted soon.

The EVHL house playoffs will begin soon.  Playoff schedules and rules will be posted and emailed this Sunday.  The EVHL playoffs use the Buffalo Points system which awards points for periods won and also for games won or tied.  Teams will play a round robin schedule with the top points winning the division championship.  That will be the format for the U13/14 and HS division.  The U10 division (5 teams) will play a 2 game round robin with a final game for the top 2 points teams for the championship.

Mites teams will participate in a EVHL Mite Jamboree the weekend of March 18th.  All 6 teams from Hryha and Pyha will participate.  More information to follow

Spring 4 on 4 Pond Hockey (3 on 3 for Cross Ice) will begin the week of April 18th.  The Pond hockey format is 2 twenty minute run time periods with no stops in play.  This is a eight game schedule and all games will be on Tuesday nights.  Due to the high number of players who participate in this program registrations will be done in two phases.  Registrations will open March 26th and each age group will be limited to 20 players.  More details including the cost will be published soon. Pond hockey is No Contact and all USA Hockey rules apply.

HOPE YOU HAD A GREAT HOLIDAY. PRACTICES RESUME TODAY JANUARY 3RD. SEE YOU AT THE RINK.

Please see the notice below about the USA Hockey Level 1 and 2 ref training August 13th at Iceland.  To register go to usahockey.com, click on officiating and look for the course to register.

Welcome back to the 2022-2023 youth hockey season.  We are expecting a large turnout this season and here are some details:

The registration link is on the website at www.hryha.com.  Season dues are $695 for Cross Ice Mites and $995 for all other divisions.  At registration there is a $300 payment and then 3 payments beginning in September.  Practices will begin the week of September 12th and games beginning the weekend of October 1.

VERY IMPORTANT

Our jersey provider has warned of a longer than usual lead time to produce our jerseys.  Each house player will need a Red and White jersey for the house program.  If you already have your jerseys, then you are good.  We do expect a large number of new players this year who will need jerseys.  Our jerseys are custom produced with your players number and name.  Stop by Iceland and get your jersey in.

All Tournament/Select/Jamboree players must also order house jerseys.  If they have already ordered the tournament jerseys they know their size and just need or fill out the order form for the house jerseys.

Socks can also be ordered on the jersey forms.

Many returning players probably do not need to reorder unless your player has outgrown the jersey.

Players numbers are protected but every effort will be made to honor number requests.

So, REGISTER as soon as you can and ORDER YOUR jerseys as soon as you can.

Any questions can be directed to me at richappleby08@gmail.com or to Casey at caseman68@cox.net

Below is the registration for the Fall Season.  We are expecting a very big turnout for the season so plan on signing up as soon as you can.  Payments for season dues are available after paying the initial deposit.

Practices will begin the second week of September with games starting the 1st weekend of October.  Jersey orders (if needed) should be placed at Iceland.  We will post suggested jersey sizing and order dates.

Games will be played with HRYHA and PYHA teams.

Thanks for all the support for the Warrior for Life Memorial  game for Commander Brian Bourgeois Saturday at Iceland.  This game was preceded by the Warrior Sled hockey game featuring four members and the Coach Hoff from the USA National Gold winning Sled hockey team.

During a break in the action the New Warrior For Life Shield was unveiled at center ice.  This will be installed in the lobby area of Iceland soon.

Another great weekend-Thanks to the Bruin Alumni, the USA National Sled team, members of the NSW community, and all fans of the game who attended.  Special thanks to WFL board members Mike Fleetwood and Bruin Alumni Frank Simonetti for all their hard work on setting up this event.

This beautiful Warrior for Life shield will soon be on display at Iceland.

Our own Coach Bob pictured with the Gold winning members of the USA National Sled Team.  Check out the gold medals.

Kevan Miller has come through again. He and Brad Marchand of March & Mill Co. have created “The Enforcer” T-Shirt to honor Cmdr. Brian Bourgeois.  100% of the net proceeds will go to the Warrior for Life Fund. Kevan plans to present Ryan with a check when he’s in VB July 23rd so let’s do what we can to pump up sales,

Below find link to purchase plus Kevan’s 2 Instagram posts and March & Mill Co’s Facebook post.  Please share within your teams, friends & family networks, the WhatsApp hockey contact list, and any supporters who are social media active, asking them to go wide with this. 

https://marchandmillco.com/collections/best-sellers/products/the-enforcer

https://www.instagram.com/p/CfHDChPusJZ/?hl=en

https://www.instagram.com/p/CfEfn_vuyaf/?hl=en

https://www.facebook.com/MarchandMillCo

Schedule
July 18-21 - Hockey Clinics
July 22   12:00pm  Warrior Sled Game
July 22   4:00pm  WFLF Memorial Games dedicated to Commander Brian Michael Bourgeois (USN)

The Warrior For Life Fund is proud to announce former Boston Bruins players Mark Mowers, Dave Jenson and Frank Simonetti will visit Virginia Beach to host youth ice hockey clinics, July 18th-21st, and Memorial Game July 22nd at Iceland Family Skating Center in Virginia Beach. Simonetti and Jenson are former defenseman who played with the Boston Bruins. Mowers is a former forward with the Nashville Predators, Detroit Red Wings, Boston Bruins, and Anaheim Ducks. Mowers is currently a pro scout for the Minnesota Wild. Jenson played with the Hartford Whalers, Washington Capitals and the Boston Bruins Organizations and was a key member of the 1984 USA Olympic hockey team. In addition to the star-studded lineup are four 2022 US Paralympic sled hockey gold medalists. Coach David Hoff is an ice-sled hockey coach and a member of the 2018/2022 United States gold medal Winter Paralympics ice sled hockey teams. Hoff recently led his team to an overall win gold in the 2022 Paralympics in Beijing and Ostrava 2021 - World Para Ice Hockey Championships | International Paralympic Committee games held in Ostrava, Czech Republic. Accompanying Hoff are players Travis Dodson, Rico Roman, Ralph DeQuebec and Joe Woodke, who will participate in a sled hockey clinic and game Saturday 12 noon in conjunction with the Boston Bruins visit. Sled hockey is the most popular Paralympic sport. A Proud Supporter of the Navy SEAL Foundation, The Warrior For Life Fund® supports our warriors by providing programs and infrastructure that help military families from all service branches cope with the unique challenges of combat, extended deployments, disabilities, and the long-lasting effects of war through the game of hockey while ensuring the bond of their service remains unbroken. The Warrior For Life Fund® will memorialize the history and heritage of military service and honor those who have unselfishly given the ultimate sacrifice. warriorforlifefund.org 4915 Broad St. Virginia Beach, VA 23462

The Warrior Summer Hockey Camp is scheduled for July 18-21 at Iceland.  Boston Bruin Alumni Frank Simonetti  will be the guest coach along with coaches from HRYHA and PYHA.  The camp is open to all youth hockey players.  Cost is $250.00 and the Camp Registration is below

Below are the Camp details.

June 20-24, 2022

Learn to Skate camp (includes any skater through the delta level- also good for young hockey players who need to work on their skating skills)
Freestyle camp (Advanced skaters)

Camp fees:

 $225 for 1st player, $200 for 2nd & 3rd

Drop off is 8:30-8:45am Ice time starts at 9:00am

Camp ends at 3:00pm

June 27-July 1, 2022

Hockey Camp (good for young hockey players) We mostly get players up through the U10 age group, some U12's who are newer players.

Camp fees:

 $225 for 1st player, $200 for 2nd & 3rd

Drop off is 8:30-8:45am  Ice time starts at 9:00am

Camp ends at 3:00pm

MATT JONES CAMP

https://www.joneshockeyschool.com/virginia-beach-virginia

• Sun, Jul 10, 20227:30 AM  Sun, Aug 28, 20221:30 PM
• Iceland Arena (map)

8 SUNDAY’S

JULY 10 - AUGUST 28

$600 / PER PLAYER

WARRIOR SUMMER HOCKEY CAMP

JULY 18-21 

All age groups-There will be a morning, mid-day and afternoon session each day.  Boston Bruin Alumni Frank Simonetti along with Coach Granata and Coach Casey will run.  All HRYHA and PYHA coaches are invited to participate.  Full details on the camp be published soon.

Thanks to all our HRYHA families for a great 2021-2022 EVHL season.  Even with a few Covid delays and two weather weekends we were able to complete the full practice and game schedules and for this we appreciate for help.

The final playoff winners were:

The Cross Ice Mites will have their final Jamboree the weekend of March 19th.

Upcoming Events:

The Spring Pond Hockey 4 on 4 season will begin the week of April 18th.  This program consist of 8 games (one per week), with 2 twenty minute run time periods.  The full details will be published March 21st and the registration will open that day.  Games will be played on Tuesday evenings.

There are several summer camps being planned and dates and details published soon.  There will be a Warrior for Life Camp July 18-22.  There will be three groups per day for four days.  Frank Simonetti from the Boston Bruin Alumni Association will run the camp with a couple of Boston Bruin guest coaches for the Friday sessions.  The registration for that camp will be available April 1st.

We will be holding tryouts for EJ/CHL teams the week of April 18th.  We also hope to support tournament teams.   Projected game and tournament schedules will be worked on and reviewed at the tryout sessions.  Players and coaches from both HRYHA and PYHA will participate in these programs.

We have added the actual CDC Covid guidelines that were recently released.  As in the past we ask that if anyone has any symptons to refrain from attend practices or games.  We appreciate everyone continued cooperation in this very confusing times.

Head coach David Hoff and members of the U.S. National Sled Team didn’t hesitate when offered the chance recently to help the Warrior For Life Fund (WFLF) Sled Hockey Program, an upstart sled hockey organization based in the Hampton Roads region of Virginia.

Hoff was joined by national team players Joseph Woodke and Travis Dodson as the group participated in an annual memorial game at the Iceland Family Skating Center in Virginia Beach.

The charity game also featured NHL players from the Boston Bruins, including Kevan Miller, in addition to members of the military community. The game benefitted the WFLF, a non-profit, which is dedicated to supporting active duty, retired veterans and their families as they transition through unique challenges of combat service.

“It was cool for me to go out there, but I wanted to get a couple players, especially a couple of our military guys to connect with them,” Hoff said. “I reached out to Travis Dodson and Joe Woodke, and asked if they’d be willing to come out, and they both jumped on it.”

Ryan Croley, a retired Navy SEAL and hockey coach, is the WFLF director. Croley said that the area features the largest concentration of active duty military and veterans in the country.

“Hockey serves as an amazing connection point for these guys who are looking for camaraderie or looking to stay connected,” Croley said. “I’ve been told by a number of people, from them personally, or their family, that the program has kept guys alive. That’s one of my biggest takeaways. The competition is great, but it’s really about the camaraderie and what hockey does from a therapeutic standpoint.”

Hoff feels it’s incumbent upon his players and the organization to give back in an effort to support and grow sled hockey.

“I think we’re fortunate to be in the spot that we’re in, and we’re treated awfully well,” Hoff said. “There are a lot of guys who have paved the way for our guys to have it as good as they do right now in terms of the way we’re treated. To me, it’s part of our responsibility.”

Hoff said that Woodke and Dodson were part of the charity game, but they also hung around an extra day and sat with players from the WFLF Sled Hockey Program.

“Our guys sat down with each of their players and talked to them about equipment,” Hoff said. “They were giving ideas on how they could fine-tune their sleds and other hints. Our guys were just like them at some point trying to figure everything out, so I hope the impact helped them become better sled players. That was one of our goals.”

Hoff recalled a tender moment between Dodson and a young boy.

“He was telling him how he really needs to take care of his blades underneath his sled,” Hoff said. “All of the sudden, I saw Travis reach into his bag and pulled out a USA Hockey blade cover, he put it on the kid’s sled and the kid was just ecstatic. For Travis, it was probably no big deal, but for the kid, it was a big gesture. It definitely had USA Hockey on it, too, so it was something pretty cool for that young boy to get.”

Hoff, Woodke and Dodson arrived a day before the charity event took place. Woodke and Dodson are both retired Marines, and the group received an opportunity to visit the Navy SEAL training base 

“We’re kind of a fledging sled hockey program down here, and to have those guys come down with the talent level that they have, just really created a lot of energy,” Croley said. “It was very impressive. They’re great ambassadors for the sled hockey program, and I can’t say enough for the way those guys represented the U.S. national team.”

We are excited to welcome back all the players and hockey families to the 40th year of Hampton Roads Youth Hockey.  Practice begins next week and games will begin the first weekend of October.
A couple of reminders:
1.  If you need jerseys you can come to Iceland any day 2:00pm-         7:00pm to get sized. Bring your shoulder pads.
2.  All players are required to wear mouth guards and neck guards.
3.  All current CDC Covid guidelines are in place and locker rooms will be open-locker room 5 (outdoor locker room) will be open.
4.  Players cannot get dressed or undressed in the lobby areas.

This is a rule change year for USA Hockey and the new penalty rules will be strictly enforced by the ref group.  So, bear with both the refs and coaches as we adjust to the new enforcement levels.

Games will be played with the PYHA again this year.  The two groups have met many times to coordinate and ensure that we have a fun and great youth hockey season this year.  There will be the following age groups for both practice and games.  Below are the practice times beginning next week:

 House practices begin next Tuesday Sept 14th.  Within the first two weeks the teams will be divided with the intent to have balanced teams.  Games begin the weekend of October 2.

Keep in mind that all games are Limited Contact rules as defined by USA Hockey-this means no deliberate checking at any level.  We moved to this format years ago and injuries due to checking have dropped dramatically.

Once teams are formed we have asked the coaches to have a team meeting with the parents to review the House guidelines.

There will be scoreboard and timekeeper training offered.    

For our older youth players, there is a Ref clinic scheduled for Sunday Sept 12 from 8:00am-2:00pm.  Interested players can register at USA Hockey.  HRYHA will reimburse the $45 fee for new level one refs from HRYHA that take this course. 

Looking forward to see everyone back at the rink.

PS.  NEW FURNACES HAVE BEEN ONSTALLED AT ICELAND AND THE LOCKER ROOMS WILL NOW HAVE HEAT.  No more dressing in the lobby.

Any questions can be directed to Rich Appleby at 757.470.0973 or Casey Hall at caseman68@cox.net

The Fall hockey program will begin the week of September 13.  The season comprises 2 shared practices a week and up to 16 house league games.  The game season begins the weekend of October 2nd.  Games are played at Iceland and also at the Iceplex in Newport News against teams from the Peninsula Youth Hockey Association.
The registration for the fall season will be available beginning July 15th on the website at www.hryha.com.
The fees for the fall season are $995 for all divisions except Cross Ice Mites which is $595.  Upon registration the fee is $200 with the balance in three payments beginning in September.
Jersey orders can be taken at Iceland (home and away) plus a set of socks.

In addition for the House program we will also offer Tournament teams at all age divisions.  There has already been interest skates at the U10 and HS divisions and more information will be released soon on those two divisions as well as U12 and U14.  These teams will have a limited practice schedule and will play in Invitational  tournaments.

We expect a big turnout this year for the House program, so would encourage players to get registered as soon as the registration is posted.
If you have any questions you can contact Coach Casey at caseman68@cox.net or myself at richappleby08@gmail.com.

For Jr Admirals gear click on the link below and for Warrior for Life gear click on the Squad Locker

Below is the Pvaha Letter dealing with guidelines for Hockey.  Please take a moment and read this important information.

Please see the attachment below for team assignments.  There may be some small changes before the games begin.

Game schedules for October will be posted Wednesday morning as well as team assignments.  We are going to stagger the opening games with U10, U8, and  HS teams starting the weekend of Oct 10-11 and the U14  starting the weekend of Oct 17-18.  All games on Oct 10-11 will be played at Iceland and going forward with the Oct 17-18 games will be at Iceland and Iceplex.

As we are currently doing, all players must arrive dressed in their gear and facemasks are required in Iceland.  All players are required to wear neckguards, mouthguards, and a facemask during the games while on the bench.

Jerseys are due to arrive October 6th but will not be ready for the Oct 10-11 weekend as nameplates and numbers must be put on the jerseys.  Coaches will advise their teams on jerseys to be used the first weekend.  

We realize the Covid restrictions have had an impact on how we do things, but we appreciate everyone's cooperation.  More game information will be posted soon.

Below are the practice groups for Sept and October.  When you arrive at the rink to check in you will receive a locker room or lobby assignment to put on skates.  Remember all players except goalies must arrive dressed in your gear and everyone in Iceland must wear a face mask.  Thanks for all your help.

I have just emailed to everyone's individual emails the attachments from USA Hockey/PVAHA regarding the Covid guidelines as well as the procedures we have put in place and the Sept/October practice schedules.  The attachments will provide all the details.  There is also a waiver that you can print out, complete and bring to the rink for your first practice.  There will be a check in table when you enter Iceland manned by Coach Casey Hall and Coach Mike.  They will assist in the check in process and also give the locker room assignments to the players.  All players, except goalies, must come to the rink dressed in their gear and proceed directly to their assigned areas.
Please take time to read thru all the attachments. 
Players practice groups will be posted tonight and emailed out.  The practice schedules will be in place until at least October 30th.  Hopefully we will see guideline changes in the future. 
We appreciate everyone's support and patience and we work thru all the details of getting the hockey season kicked off.
Thanks,
Rich

We will put out the practice schedule tomorrow but it is being modified to meet not only the Virginia guidelines but the updated guidelines we received tonight from the Potomac Valley Hockey Association which is the USA Hockey affiliate for USA Hockey in Virginia and Maryland.  The guidelines are very stringent and we are reworking the practice and game schedules to comply.  More to come.  But practices will start next week. 

Click on the link below for a message from USA Hockey

It's that time of year. Time to register for the Fall Season.  As an added reminder that if this season is interrupted based on the Covid issue, dues will be refunded on a pro-rata basis or refunded in full if in the unlikely event, the season is cancelled.  As of right now plans are full speed with practice starting the week of September 14th.

The registration numbers look very good this year with not only the returning players but a number of new players joining up.

The registration link is on the website front page.  This year we are setting August 19th as the registration deadline.  If you are planning on playing please register.  If you are pretty sure of playing, please register.  If you decide to not play prior to the season start, we will refund your amount paid 100%.

In addition to the House program we will offer Tournament teams for Sqt, Pw, Bn, and Mg (U16 and U18).  This is all based on sign ups.  

Also as a reminder, this is a new jersey year and we will be scheduling jerseys sizing sessions in the next two weeks.  We are moving to Red/White/Blue jerseys as we start our transition with the Warrior for Life Fund program.

Feel free to contact me with any questions.

Thanks

BELOW ARE THE DETAILS OF THE FALL SEASON.  WE PLAN ON HAVING TEAMS AT ALL AGE GROUPS. BELOW ARE THE USA HOCKEY AGE GROUPS:

2012 AND YOUNGER   U8 MITES

2010-2011                           U10 SQUIRT

2008-2009                          U12 PEEWEE

2006-2007                          U14 BANTAM

2004-05-03-02                U18 MIDGETS

THE SEASON STARTS THE WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 14TH.   MOST OF THE PRACTICES WILL BE ON TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY EVENING AS IN THE PAST.  BASED ON TEAM COUNTS THERE MAY BE SOME MONDAY AND THURSDAY PRACTICES.  GAMES WILL BE PLAYED WITH PYHA AND GAMES WILL BEGIN THE WEEKEND OFOCTOBER 3RD.  ALL GAMES WILL BE SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS.  EVERY EFFORT WILL BE MADE TO BALANCE OUT AND MINIMIZE SUNDAY GAMES AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE.

PRACTICES WILL BEGIN SEPT 14TH AND PLAYERS WILL BE ASSIGNED TO TEAMS THE WEEK OF SEPT 28TH AT THE LATEST.

SEASON DUES:

CROSS ICE MITES   $595

ALL OTHER DIVISIONS $985

For the payment plan we have spread the payments over 5 months beginning Sept 5th.  The following information will be on the registration link on the website.

• PAY ONLINE IN FULL: Submit total fees online today upon conclusion of this registration session via Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or checking account. ($50 discount if paid in full)
• PAYMENT PLAN:  Fees are divided into 5 installments with the first installment ($200.00) to be collected online today upon conclusion of this registration session via Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or checking account. The remaining balance will be automatically debited from the SAME ACCOUNT on September 5, October 5, November 5, 2020, December 5, January 5.

Yesterday we received the Phase 2 reopening details and we are preparing to reopen on a limited basis.  During phase 2 there will be no public sessions.
We are working on Hockey and Figure skating programs in line with the Phase 2 restrictions.  We will be offering power skating sesssions and skills sessions for the hockey players.  We don't have times or the structure of the sessions as yet.  Once we get it all sorted it we will post the details on the HRYHA and Iceland websites.
Hopefully Phase 3 happens quickly and we can get back to a more normal schedule.
Please do not call Iceland as they are unable to field lots of calls and get ready to reopen at the same time.
Details will be posted on the web sites and I will email the information to everyone the details as they are finalized.
Thanks for your patience and we will get you informed.

We hope everyone is coping well with these very unusual and difficult times.  We are getting ready to reopen once we get clearance from the state of Virginia on reopening guidelines.  During the shutdown we have redone the ice surface and it is looking great.  Still in the process of building the ice but it will be ready soon. We have also updated the bathrooms and did some internal paint work and upgraded parts of the ice refrig system.
A big thanks to the Warrior for Life Fund and they donated the cost of redoing the ice and the installation of new partitions in the bathrooms.
Details on the summer programs and the Fall season will be released soon.  Still waiting for information from the state and also USA Hockey.  We will keep you posted as we work out the details.
We have had a lot of calls asking when we are going to reopen and all we can say is stand by and we will let you know as soon as we can.  More to come

Based on the decisions today March 30th by the State of Virginia Iceland will be closed for all activities until June 11th.   See below:

The following recreation and entertainment businesses are considered non-essential and must close to the public beginning at 11:59 PM on Tuesday, March 24, 2020:

• Theaters, performing arts centers, concert venues, museums, and other indoor entertainment centers;
• Fitness centers, gymnasiums, recreation centers, indoor sports facilities, indoor exercise facilities;
• Beauty salons, barber shops, spas, massage parlors, tanning salons, tattoo shops, and any other location where personal care or personal grooming services are performed that would not allow compliance with social distancing guidelines to remain six feet apart;
• Racetracks and historic horse racing facilities;
• Bowling alleys, skating rinks, arcades, amusement parks, trampoline parks, fairs, arts and craft facilities, aquariums, zoos, escape rooms, indoor shooting ranges, public and private social clubs, and all other places of indoor public amusement.   
•  Pond hockey will be delayed to start June 16th..  If the State removes the close date, Iceland will reopen as quickly as possible.  We urge all to follow the guidelines issued and to stay safe and healthy.  Looking forward to getting back on the ice and having some fun.
• During this mandatory shutdown we are busy getting the ice surface prepared to be painted, updating the bathrooms, painting some areas of the interior and other projects that are in the works.
• The Fall 2020-21 hockey season registration will be available June 1st.  Select and Travel tryouts will be announced once the PVAHA decides the dates of tryouts.  We will post the information as received.
• We are anxious to reopen as soon as we can.  Stay safe and we will see all of you soon.

Thanks to all our hockey families for a great 2019-2020 season.  We hope that all the players had fun playing hockey this past season.  Below is a brief update on events coming up:

MARCH 21-22  AZALEA OPEN COMPETITION AT ICELAND-MOVED TO MAY 9-10

MARCH TBD   SEASON END COACHES MEETING-Details to be posted soon and emailed to all coaches.

April  TBD   2020-2021 Select and Travel Tryouts-Details coming soon

April 28TH  Spring Pond Hockey starts-Registration is now available on line.

July 10th  Boston Bruin Alumni Youth Camp-registration will be available June 1st

July 12th  HRYHA Membership Meeting and Warrior for Life Update

There are a number of youth camps planned at Iceland and all those dates will be published shortly.

Face-off for Heroes Sailors assigned to Naval Special Warfare (NSW) participated in the inaugural “Face off for Heroes” (FOFH) hockey games in Boston, Oct. 26, 2019 and New York City, Oct. 27, 2019. Four SEAL operators played in two hockey games alongside former professional and hockey hall of fame players. “In addition to the excitement of the sporting event where NSW players wore the uniform of the Bruins and Rangers Alumni Teams, the weekend’s events offered service members and families an opportunity for respite from the stressors of life in NSW,” said Capt. Ryan Croley, deputy NSW Group-2 commodore. “FOFH provided an opportunity for stressed families to reconnect, which can be incredibly healing.” The Boston Bruins Foundation and the Warrior for Life Fund (WFLF), a co-beneficiary of the Navy SEAL Foundation and a 501(c) (3) charitable organization, hosted FOFH to honor the military, their sacrifices and their families. “WFLF was established in 2019 to provide infrastructure, therapeutic sports programs, and support to Gold Star Families in support of NSW and military veterans,” said Croley. “For NSW hockey players, especially those who have retired or are nearing retirement, playing hockey is just as much therapeutic as it is about competition. Playing hockey has a way of clearing the mind for guys who may be struggling with fatigue, posttraumatic injuries and other ailments that they have acquired over their time in service. It is a game that has created bonds and lasting memories for a number of SEALs and their families. Some have said that playing hockey and engaging in ‘play’ has significantly changed their lives for the better.” WFLF, originally known as the Virginia Beach Hockey Club, has hosted over 14 NSW memorial hockey games that have been attended by more than 550 NSW players and families over the past five years. For more information about the Warrior for Life Fund, visit www.warriorforlifefund.org. 

Below is a brief clip from the Warrior for Life Fund event in Boston featuring the Boston Bruin Alumni vs the New York Ranger Alumni teams.  This event was a tremendous success and more details will be posted soon.  Games were played in Boston and the following day in New York at Madison Square Garden.  Check out the link below:

https://www.danboyvideoproductions.com/single-post/2019/11/16/BruinsRangers-Alumni-Game

Hampton Roads Youth Hockey and the Warrior for Life Fund (both 501c organizations) have agreed to partner to build a new ice arena facility in Virginia Beach to both promote the growth of hockey and to provide a venue to support the military community in the Tidewater area.

Below are two articles providing more details on this important project. Once completed all HRYHA programs as well as all the other activities at Iceland will move to the new facility under the Warrior for Life Fund organization.  

The Warrior For Life Fund has tremendous support from the Navy Seal Foundation and the Boston Bruin Alumni and Boston Bruin Foundation.  There are two fundraising hockey games planned for October 26 in Boston and October 27th in New York city between the Boston Bruin Alumni and the New York Rangers.  Information on these games is on the Warrior for Life Fund site (see link below).

The efforts for this project were officially kicked off last weekend when 7 Boston Bruin Alumni attended our Hockey camp event at Iceland.  The players spent 4 days touring Hampton Roads and were very impressed with the area and the level of play with our players.  They also joined  the Adult Sled team and played in an exhibition game.  The players had a great time and were very pumped about our project.

Beginning in the 2020-2021 season HRYHA will adopt a new name and team colors.  The new name will be the Hampton Roads Youth Hockey Warrior program to coincide with the new arena.  New uniforms will be adopted with the Warrior for Life crest.  The Warrior for life colors are red, white and blue and the new uniforms will reflect this color combination.  An example of the jersey and crest are also below. These changes will not take effect until 2021.  

Prior to the start of this season, we will schedule some information meetings to keep everyone up to date on our progress. We have already visited several brand new facilities and have plans to visit 2 to 3 more this fall as we prepare for the transition.

Many of our members have asked about getting involved and we will definitely accept your help.  More information will follow on this.  Feel free to contact Rich Appleby (richappleby08@gmail.com) or Bob Pizzini (bob@iflyvabeach.com) for information on this important project.

Below is the schedule for Friday's Bruin Alumni Event.  The players who have registered to attend have been assigned to groups.  If there are any other players who wish to attend, please email me at richappleby08@gmail.com.  This is going to be a very crowded event and we would ask the players to come to the rink already dressed if possible and go directly to the assigned locker rooms upon arrival.  Please wear your game jersey.  The following Bruin Alumni members will be in attendance:

Rick Middleton, Ken Hodge, Bruce Crowder, Frank Simonetti, Tim Sweeney Sr, Tim Sweeney Jr, Bob Sweeney, and David Jensen.

Mission BBQ will cater the event and the Bruin Alumni group will be available after the sessions for meet, greet, and autographs.

Sunday at 1:00pm will be the HRYHA Membership meeting were we will review next season's plans and the future Warrior Ice Center Project.

We look forward to seeing all of you Friday and Sunday

Hampton Roads Youth Hockey Association has partnered with the Warrior for Life Fund Organization for a major project in Virginia Beach.  To announce and promote this program HRYHA will be hosting a Youth Hockey Event  July 11-14 at Iceland.  Below is some information from the Warrior for Life Fund web site:

"The Warrior For Life Fund, in collaboration with the Navy Seal Foundation, aims to raise at least 3.5 million dollars in order to build the Warrior Ice Center: a two-sheet complex and community facility. The center will host programs to support the unique needs of military families, while easing the difficulties associated with deployment, combat, disability, and re-acclimation into society. The Warrior Ice Center will serve the local military community and civilians in and around Virginia Beach, Virginia, which is home to the largest concentration of active duty and retired military personnel in the world."

The Warrior Ice Center will also be the new home of the Hampton Roads Youth Hockey program and all current activities at Iceland.

To kick off this event the Boston Bruin Alumni Association will have up to 10 Boston Bruin players (some retired and some active) attending this kick off.

The Youth Hockey portion will be conducted on Friday July 12th.  In addition to the Press Event, the Bruin players will conduct a clinic for our coaches and two player clinics.   Times for these events will be posted soon and there will be a required registration process for both coaches and youth players.  There will be food and refreshments and an opportunity to meet and mingle with the players.

Sunday July 14th will be the annual HRYHA Membership meeting where next season details will be discussed as well as more information on the Warrior for Life Fund project.

More details will be posted as they are finalized.

   From active duty to retirement, the Warrior for Life Fund supports our warriors as they transition through the unique challenges of combat by providing programs and infrastructure designed  to support service members and their families long-term.
Through veterans, family support and community programs, the Fund will ensure the bond of service remains unbroken.  The Warrior for Life Fund will memorialize the history and heritage of military service and honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
  The Warrior for Life Fund, in collaboration with the Navy Seal Foundation, has a goal to raise 3.5 million dollars to assist  and shape the design and build of the Warrior Ice Center, a two sheet ice complex and community center planned for  Virginia Beach, VA, home to the largest concentration of active duty  and retired military personnel in the world.  In exchange the Warrior  for Life Fund and Navy SEAL Foundation Hockey Programs will receive preferred ice times at discount rates, dedicated locker room with sled storage, study room for children, an Honor  Wall that will pay tribute to service members from all branches. In addition the main rink will meet  Paralympics standards to accommodate the areas rapidly growing sled hockey programs. Most importantly the Warrior Ice Center will host the programs which support the unique needs of families from  all branches of the military, easing the difficulties associated with  deployment, combat, disability and re-acclimation into society while also serving First Responder’s and the civilian  hockey community in Virginia Beach.