The “spread” has no place in youth hockey

Black Bear Sports Group recently started the Hockey Power Rankings (“HPR”) as an alternative to MyHockeyRankings (“MHR”). MyHockeyRankings has been the only ranking source in youth hockey for many years and originally was used to help families schedule competitive games. Unfortunately, as its power grew, people and organizations have weaponized the use of MHR. Many teams refuse to play scheduled games for fear it will decrease their ranking. Many teams won’t pull a goalie in a close game for fear of giving up an empty net goal which will harm their rankings. many organizations have figured out that playing a small bubble of teams/games protects their strength of schedule which, given that losses do not matter in MHR, artificially increases their ranking. Ultimately this is particularly important for national bound teams as USA Hockey and their affiliates are now using MHR for qualification for district and national at-large selections.

The primary problem with MHR is that its system creates a “rating” for teams that sadly are not based on wins. The higher the rating, the higher the ranking. To simplify things, the rating is based on strength of schedule and goal differentials. The rating difference between teams represents the projected score differential (the “spread”) between teams when they play. If you beat that spread, regardless of winning or losing, your ranking rises. If you do not beat the spread, your rating falls – hence the problem with pulling the goalie and giving up an empty net goal – it could damage your spread if the spread is one goal. Moreover, MHR will not share how the rating is calculated in any fashion, leaving people to wonder if teams start the season equally or if there is a carryover from the previous season. The lack of transparency from MHR makes their rating/rankings even more powerful and dangerous.

The Hockey Power Rankings is based on KRACH – the same formula used by College Hockey Power Rankings systems, one of the rankings used by NCAA Division 1 College Hockey. HPR uses wins and strength of schedule – goal differential is not relevant. We are not trying to displace MHR; instead, we are trying to give alternatives for USA Hockey, coaches and families to make decisions. We believe that teams should not be forced to turn down games due to fear of the “spread.” We hope the HPR allows teams to play more local games, limit travel, and reduce the overall costs of playing the game.

Finally, Black Bear is the largest customer of GameSheet, the electronic scoring system that, as a result of Black Bear adopting it two years ago, has now become the national standard. Black Bear asked GameSheet to provide HPR electronic access to the games that GameSheet produces, similar to the access that MHR has to ensure accuracy of posted scores. GameSheet has some form of agreement with MHR that precludes anyone else from accessing this data. Black Bear asked that MHR allow HPR access to the GameSheet data and MHR refused. Black Bear responded that if MHR will not give access to its data, then MHR could not have access to Black Bear’s data. It is a shame that MHR is acting this way – everyone is suffering because of their decisions. Black Bear stands willing to share access to its data if MHR changes their mind.

In the meantime, we have always believed that choices are better. If people do not like the HPR, they will not come to the site. If they do, we believe youth hockey will be better off.

For the week ending on December 17th, the Atlantic Girls Hockey Federation rankings are in. KRACH is a team’s win/loss ratio multiplied by strength of schedule. You can view all rankings on the AGHF KRACH Page here.

The teams that are in first in each division are Princeton Tiger Lilies (10U), Saugerties Fillies (12U), MYHA Blue (14U Diamond), Reston Raiders (14U Platinum), Princeton Tiger Lilies Black (16U Diamond), Maryland Jr. Black Bears (16U Platinum), NJ Bandits (19U Diamond), and PHC Belles (19U Platinum).

The Atlantic Girls Hockey Federation proudly presents its roster for the 2024 Peewee Tournament in Quebec, set to take place from February 7 to February 18, 2024. This premier event gathers approximately 120 teams from around the world, creating an atmosphere often likened to the “Little League World Series of Hockey.”

The tournament unfolds on the grand stage of the Videotron Centre, boasting a seating capacity of 18,259 and serving as the home arena for the Quebec Remparts. Amidst the competition at this iconic venue, the participating teams will also engage in spirited matches at various rinks across Quebec City.

Goaltenders:

Players:

Coaching Staff:

For the week ending on December 10th, the Atlantic Girls Hockey Federation rankings are in. KRACH is a team’s win/loss ratio multiplied by strength of schedule. You can view all rankings on the AGHF KRACH Page here.

The teams that are in first in each division are Princeton Tiger Lilies (10U), Saugerties Fillies (12U), MYHA Blue (14U Diamond), Reston Raiders (14U Platinum), Princeton Tiger Lilies Black (16U Diamond), Maryland Jr. Black Bears (16U Platinum), NJ Bandits (19U Diamond), and PHC Belles (19U Platinum).

Excitement is building for the upcoming 2023 Atlantic Girls Hockey Federation (AGHF) All Stars event, scheduled for this Saturday, December 9th, at Ice Vault. Adding to the excitement, the AGHF announced that the comprehensive All Star Online Program, featuring the live roster and teams, is now live! Fans should keep an eye out for potential changes as the week progresses.

Stay in the know and keep up with all the action by accessing schedules and live scores conveniently located under the All Star page on our website.

Make sure not to miss the opportunity to have your All Stars moments captured by Carmo Photography. Positioned at the rink, they will be snapping photos throughout the event. For those looking to take home a tangible memory, Carmo Photography will also have a table with a selection of pictures available for purchase.

Elevate your AGHF All Stars experience by entering to win a free Sherwood stick of your choice! Simply submit your most thrilling game clips from the weekend here for a chance to snag this coveted prize. We’ll be announcing the lucky winners on our social media channels, so stay tuned for the big reveal.

For those interested in custom All Star player cards, you can conveniently purchase them online. Visit playercards.store to order these personalized mementos, featuring the code ALLSTARS2023. Commemorate this special event with your own player card.

We invite everyone attending the 2023 AGHF All Stars event to capture the essence of the weekend and share it with us. Whether you’re snapping action shots, team celebrations, or candid moments, tag us in your photos on social media or upload them directly here to be featured on the official AGHF account.

For the week ending on December 3rd, the Atlantic Girls Hockey Federation rankings are in. KRACH is a team’s win/loss ratio multiplied by strength of schedule. You can view all rankings on the AGHF KRACH Page here.

The teams that are in first in each division are Princeton Tiger Lilies (10U), Saugerties Fillies (12U), MYHA Blue (14U Diamond), Reston Raiders (14U Platinum), Princeton Tiger Lilies Black (16U Diamond), Maryland Jr. Black Bears (16U Platinum), NJ Bandits (19U Diamond), and PHC Belles (19U Platinum).

For the week ending on November 26th, the Atlantic Girls Hockey Federation rankings are in. KRACH is a team’s win/loss ratio multiplied by strength of schedule. You can view all rankings on the AGHF KRACH Page here.

The teams that are in first in each division are Jr. Flyers (10U), Saugerties Fillies (12U), MYHA Blue (14U Diamond), Reston Raiders (14U Platinum), Princeton Tiger Lilies Black (16U Diamond), Maryland Jr. Black Bears (16U Platinum), NJ Bandits (19U Diamond), and PHC Belles (19U Platinum).

Reposted by Black Bear Youth Hockey Foundation

In a significant stride towards fostering inclusivity in youth hockey, the Black Bear Youth Hockey Foundation proudly announces its scholarship recipients for the 2023-24 season, providing a total of $44,900 in financial aid to 64 deserving children. Established in 2020, the foundation aims to eliminate financial barriers hindering youth hockey participation, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to experience the camaraderie and life lessons that the sport offers. Through individual grants and sponsored programs, the foundation strives to ease the financial stress many families face in affording equipment and ice time. Youth hockey, known for cultivating friendships, teamwork, and accountability, becomes an accessible avenue for all, nurturing a lifelong passion for the sport.

Stories of Triumph and Dedication:

Michael Edelstein: A dedicated player on the Grundy Senators 12U hockey team, Michael Edelstein’s journey into hockey began at the age of three. Despite financial challenges, Michael’s single mom supports his passion, and the Black Bear Hockey Foundation scholarship serves as a crucial support, enabling him to continue thriving on the ice.

The Turpin Family: June, James, and Jackson Turpin of the Maryland Jr. Black Bears express their deep gratitude as recipients of the Black Bear Hockey Foundation scholarship. Despite facing financial strains due to their dad’s surgery, the scholarship has allowed them to persist in their love for hockey.

Noah Krasner: A devoted player for the Igloo Jaguars since the age of five, Noah Krasner considers hockey more than just a game—it’s his life. The scholarship, received last year, proved transformative as Noah moved to the 16u level, enhancing both his skills and maturity. Noah’s unwavering work ethic and commitment make him a deserving candidate for ongoing support.

Paulina Rucz: Overcoming the challenges of a rare heart defect, Paulina Rucz, a resilient player on the 16U Elite Islanders Girls team, has defied the odds. The scholarship, received last year, eased financial strain for her mother amid layoffs. Paulina’s remarkable achievements, including MVP and Top Scorer, reflect her dedication, and she looks forward to the continued support of the scholarship in pursuing her dreams in the National Women’s Hockey League.

On this Giving Tuesday, consider contributing to the Black Bear Youth Hockey Foundation to help future hockey players. Your donation can make a lasting impact, creating opportunities for aspiring athletes to engage in the transformative power of sport.

Scholarship Recipients
Michael Edelstein
Kamil Szumigraj
Shawn Gearl
Chase Clouser
Hunter Brown
Paulina Rucz
Isaiah Scanlon
Bryston Elgalady
Jean-Paul Dominguez
Alexander Udal
Ivan Shuminski
Chyna Taylor
Jack McKenzie
Jack Doran
Noah Krasner
Nicolette Gentile
Evan Elias
Gemma Graeff
Yahor Putau
Christian Blood
Leland Williams
David Dziomba
Richard G Volgraf (Jr.)
Frank Rosenberry
Xavier Jamison
Kele Aragon
Carlo Pietroboni
Ella Doran
Peyton Hull
Aidan Shine
Braydon Hammond
Ara Landskroener
Antons Podskocijs
Jackson Turpin
James Turpin
June Turpin
Jan Eschler
Brayden Lodise
Amelia Smith
Alexander Kuznikov
Ethan Kotecki
Austin Kotecki
Noah Kotecki
Liam Garten
Camerom Feeley
Avah Williams
Mark Gusev
Chloe Makinson
Draek Davis
Noah Desotti
Keegan Champagne
Preston Champagne
Javion Drupp

For the week ending on November 19th, the Atlantic Girls Hockey Federation rankings are in. KRACH is a team’s win/loss ratio multiplied by strength of schedule. You can view all rankings on the AGHF KRACH Page here.

The teams that are in first in each division are Jr. Flyers (10U), Saugerties Fillies (12U), MYHA Blue (14U Diamond), Reston Raiders (14U Platinum), Princeton Tiger Lilies Black (16U Diamond), Maryland Jr. Black Bears (16U Platinum), Jr. Flyers (19U Diamond), and PHC Belles (19U Platinum).

For the week ending on November 12th, the Atlantic Girls Hockey Federation rankings are in. KRACH is a team’s win/loss ratio multiplied by strength of schedule. You can view all rankings on the AGHF KRACH Page here.

The teams that are in first in each division are Jr. Flyers (10U), Saugerties Fillies (12U), MYHA Blue (14U Diamond), Reston Raiders (14U Platinum), Princeton Tiger Lilies Black (16U Diamond), Maryland Jr. Black Bears (16U Platinum), Jr. Flyers (19U Diamond), and PHC Belles (19U Platinum).