2004-05 President's Letter

Dear Hockey Fans:

It starts after tryouts; that little increase in their step, heads a little higher, talk of another championship, the positive outlook that "this is our year." Yes, the young men and women of winter know — it’s hockey time in the Midwest and the start of another Iowa High School Hockey League season. WELCOME players, parents and fans to some of the best High School Hockey played in the country.

As the leaves on the trees change, so do the faces in the League; and, this year brings more change than I can recall in my long history with the IHSHL. We welcome eight new team representatives to the League. Another significant change comes from Kansas City as they retire the team name "Jr. Blades" and introduce the "Jr. Outlaws."

It is the IHSHL’s heartfelt wish that the season be one of growing — both academically and athletically. I personally like to think that we help mold model citizens who just happen to be great hockey players. As always, we salute our senior players and their parents. May your final high school season be rewarding and provide memories that last a lifetime. I challenge all involved to take time to thank our volunteers, without them the opportunity to “live the dream” would quickly disappear.

As I mentioned in a previous paragraph there are many new faces, fortunately the League and specifically the new representatives have at their disposal a seasoned executive body to work with. The executive committee continues to volunteer year round to ensure an environment that is conducive to a high level of fair competition and continued improvement. The Committee’s theme last year was “open communications” among the high school officials across three states. I have challenged the League leadership to continue this emphasis but broaden its scope to include everyone — from player to executive committee member and all participates in-between. On behalf of the League’s officers and directors, we wish the teams and their members the best for the season.

Sincerely,
Shawn Spencer
President, IHSHL