Dear Hockey Fans:

The nights are cooler, the leaves are turning colors, football is in full swing, and the MLB American and National Leagues are getting prepared to square off in the World Series. What does all this mean? It means it is hockey time! And, where is the best High School Hockey played? Right here in the Midwest. Yes it is time; it is hockey time for the Midwest High School Hockey League. The Executive Committee would personally like to welcome its players, parents and fans to another action-packed season of high school hockey.

It has been over five years since the Executive Committee sat down and developed a strategic plan to ensure our players, parents and fans had the most professional environment possible to play in. Some of the goals were lofty, but to remain competitive in this business we knew change would be required. It started with a name change to better characterize the demographics of our League. We set out to centralize our year end tournament in an effort to create a returning fan base and to provide revenue for the entire League. This year, for the first time, both Varsity and Junior Varsity will play in a centralized tournament. The revenue from last year’s League hosted JV tournament was returned this year to the teams in the form of lower League fees. The executive committee set a goal to increase the size of the League to sixteen teams; eight in the west and eight in the east. We didn’t quite get there, but with the addition of the Omaha Energy we are now at fourteen teams; seven in the west and seven in the east (welcome back Omaha). I am confident that in the future, the League will achieve this goal.

Yes we have changed, but we remain steadfast in ensuring that our changes do not diminish our commitment to our mission statement; “Competitive high school hockey scoring big on family and academic values.” We still believe that our League can provide a highly competitive environment for our players to develop their hockey skills and excel in academics, all while living at home, contributing to their communities and schools.

As always I 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 the time and thank our volunteers for without them the games would not be played.

I thank the Executive Committee as they continue to volunteer year ‘round to ensure our hockey environment is conducive to a high level of fair competition and continued player development. Believe me when I say that these seasoned individuals are dedicated to the success of this League and make personal sacrifices to ensure it. On behalf of the League’s officers, we wish the teams and their members the best for the upcoming season.

Sincerely,
Shawn Spencer
President, MHSHL