By Brian Meek, Illinois West President
August 25, 2020
ANNUAL GOALIE CLINIC
Illinois West held our goalie clinic at All Seasons in late July. All West goalies were invited to participate and over 30 attended the 4-day camp. Patrick Meek and other coaches from the Good as Gould Goalie School provided eight hours of both on- and off-ice training to the attendees. Five stations were set up on the All Seasons ice with only goalies and coaches participating. The State of Illinois guidelines were followed by All Seasons, the attendees, and coaches. Goalies received training on shot blocking, rebound control, puck control, movement with and without the puck as well as many other on-ice skills. Off-ice training was designed specifically for goalies and used drills that each goalie may draw from throughout the year to maintain proper goalie preparedness. This was the 11th year for the annual Illinois West Goalie Clinic.
FENWICK HIGH SCHOOL WELCOMED TO ILLINOIS WEST
The Fenwick Friars requested to join Illinois West this year, and we are happy to welcome the Friars into our League. The West clubs voted entry, and all look forward to what Fenwick will bring to Illinois West. Fenwick has a long history of high school hockey and re-joins Illinois West for the 2020-2021 season. The Friars will field both varsity and junior varsity teams and will join our other thirteen clubs to form a strong 28-team league. Welcome Friars!
TWENTY EIGHT TEAMS FOR WEST IN 2020-2021
Illinois West will have 14 clubs with 28 teams for the 2020-2021 season. Each club plans to field both a varsity and junior varsity team. Our clubs this year include:
DuPage Stars, Fenwick. Glenbard, Hinsdale Central, Lincoln-Way, Lyons Township, Maine, Naperville Central, Naperville North, Neuqua Valley, Oswego, Carl Sandburg, Waubonsie/Metea, Wheaton West
ILLINOIS WEST MOVES AHEAD WITH PLANS FOR THE SEASON
Illinois West is prepared to start the season on schedule. This of course is contingent on the State of Illinois, USA Hockey and AHAI Guidelines. Plans include flexibility to allow the league to begin games as soon as cleared. Our goal is to provide all our teams with a full 20-game regular season schedule followed by our normal playoff structure including the round robins advancing to the Championship rounds to award the West Cup, the Scholastic Cup and the Founders Cup. West is working with all involved to ensure the least interruption to our season. Flexibility allows West to adjust the schedule while keeping the safety of our players, coaches and officials at the forefront.
February 24, 2020
Maine Captures Varsity West Cup in Thrilling Fashion
Maine Township captured the Illinois West Varsity West Cup after a thrilling 3-game series this past weekend. Number 2 seed Maine defeated number 1 seed Waubonsie in a great 3-game series. The road team won all three games with Maine defeating Waubonsie Friday night at All Seasons Ice Rinks with a 2–1 score. Waubonsie returned the favor on Saturday night on Maine’s home ice with a 3-2 victory to even the series. Sunday night was back again at All Seasons and saw the teams line up in a game 3 with the Cup on the line. A very well played and hard-fought game resulted in a Maine victory of 1-0. There were great crowds at each game from both teams. Good solid hockey from start to finish of the series was displayed by both teams. We are looking forward to watching both teams participate in the State Tournament. Maine hopes to make it to the United Center for the first time and Waubonsie hopes to repeat as State Champions. Hope to see you there!
Glenbard Captures Junior Varsity West Cup in 2 Games
Glenbard captured the Junior Varsity West Cup in a 2-game sweep of Oswego. Both were solid competitive games, but top seed Glenbard prevailed. Congratulations to both teams for making the finals and providing fans with good hockey to enjoy. Thanks teams and good luck in State.
Neuqua Valley Captures Varsity Scholastic Cup in 2 Games
Congratulations to both number 3 seed Neuqua Valley and number 4 seed Naperville Central for making the finals of the Illinois West Scholastic Cup bracket. Neuqua Valley prevailed in a 2-game sweep. Game 1 was extremely exciting with Naperville Central holding a 2–1 lead entering the last minute of play. Neuqua scored with 10 seconds left in the game to force an overtime period of 3-on-3 hockey for 5 minutes. About half way through OT, Neuqua found the back of the net for the unlikely win just 3 minutes before. Game 2 was close early with Neuqua pulling away late in the game for the win.
Lincoln Way Captures Varsity Founders Cup in 2 Games
Number 2 seed Lincoln Way and number 4 seed Sandburg competed for the Illinois West Varsity Founders Cup. Lincoln Way took the title in 2 games. Solid hockey from two young teams, both of whom expect to come back in 2020/2021 in very strong fashion. Both young teams are loaded with talent and have gained valuable experience from a year of Varsity hockey. Keep an eye on both clubs in 2020/2021.
Illinois West has 2 brackets still in play with games this coming weekend: Scholastic Junior Varsity West Cup between Neuqua Valley and Maine with Maine leading 1 game to none and the West Junior Varsity Founders Cup between Waubonsie and Lincoln Way with the series tied 1-1. Check the Illinois West website for times and locations.
Illinois West Announces Regular Season Awards for 2019 / 2020
ILLINOIS WEST 2019-2020 AWARDS
Selections based on play during regular season
2019/2020 All Conference Players
Tony Campise – Waubonsie / Metea Valley Hockey
Carter Crokin – Neuqua Valley Hockey
Nolan Cummings – Waubonsie / Metea Valley Hockey
Ithan DeLorenzo – Naperville North Hockey
Jack Ferrino – Hinsdale Central Hockey
Zachary Laskowski – Hinsdale Central Hockey
Ryan Lilly – Wheaton West Hockey
Zachary Pearce – Waubonsie / Metea Valley Hockey
Marco Rovito – Neuqua Valley Hockey
Sam Ruffolo – Glenbard Hockey
Dylan Walker – Maine Township Hockey
Varsity Top Line Performers
Dan Boscarino – Naperville North Hockey
David Hauke – Wheaton West Hockey
Daniel Leger – Waubonsie / Metea Valley Hockey
Cain Mata – Glenbard Hockey
Mike McCormick – Hinsdale Central Hockey
Charles Rutherford – Maine Township Hockey
Junior Varsity Top Line Performers
Brandon Alesia – Oswego Hockey
Garrett Clamage – Waubonsie / Metea Valley Hockey
Keaton Crement – Naperville North Hockey
Alexander Hadesman – Hinsdale Central Hockey
Ethan Patti – Neuqua Valley Hockey
Thomas Rutherford – Maine Township Hockey
Varsity Goalie Most Shots Faced
Cameron Moore – Naperville Central Varsity
Junior Varsity Goalie Most Shots Faced
Christian Rorer – Sandburg Hockey Club
Junior Varsity Leading Scorer
Zachary Zuspann – Naperville North Hockey
Illinois West Community Service Award
William Delaney – Benet Hockey
Nick Fiflis – Hinsdale Central Hockey
Will Misicko – Hinsdale Central Hockey
Tyler Zuspann – Naperville North Hockey
Illinois West Leadership Award
Weston Ball – Hinsdale Central Hockey
Zachary Laskowski – Hinsdale Central Hockey
Oliver Lepinski – Lyons Township Hockey
Joey Vogdes – Lincoln-Way Hockey
Illinois West Scholastic Achievement Award
Nikolas Dimitriou – Hinsdale Central Hockey
Trent Kenyon – Waubonsie / Metea Valley Hockey
Jason Lange – Lincoln-Way Hockey
Kai Lidke – Oswego Hockey
Riley White – Lyons Township Hockey
Illinois West Humanitarian Award
Tyler Balamut – Benet Hockey
Owen Eldersveld – Wheaton West Hockey
Ethan Hoh – Glenbard Hockey
Jack Vanderpool – Wheaton West Hockey
Illinois West Sportsmanship Award
Jack Burriesci – Maine Township Hockey
Ty Casper – DuPage Hockey
Jacob Faruzzi – Lincoln-Way Hockey
Eric Gesior – Benet Hockey
Austin Kosowski – Benet Hockey
Will Trapp – Maine Township Hockey
Alex Wilder – Waubonsie / Metea Valley Hockey
Illinois West Volunteer Award
Mike Cipra – DuPage Hockey
Rachel Kenyon – Waubonsie / Metea Valley Hockey
Joe Kwiecinski – Sandburg Hockey
Nikki White – Lyons Township Hockey
Illinois West Coach Award for Teaching & Training Excellence
Rick Rooney – Benet Hockey
Illinois West Presidents Award
Brent Boscarino – Naperville North Hockey
Neal Lilly – Wheaton West Hockey
Illinois West Varsity Coach of the Year
Jason Hawkins – Glenbard Hockey
Illinois West Junior Varsity Coach of the Year
Joe Maselli – Hinsdale Central Hockey
Illinois West Volunteer of the Year
Valarie Conrad – Lyons Township Hockey
Illinois West Junior Varsity All Stars Announced
Illinois West has announced the Junior Varsity All Stars as selected by the coaches for each team. The Game will be played Friday, 2/28 at All Seasons. 8:30PM start. Come see the future Varsity top players.
Team Tokarz (Home)
Hadesman, Dan
Grundberg, Nick
Schult, Devin
White, Jack
Selvaggi, Marco
Orenstein, Ethan
Patti, Ethan
Romito, Rocco
Jury, Charlie
Sipowich, Ben
Turner, Jack
Landolli, Nico
Zuspann, Zac
Rang, Seth
Meske, Ryan
Murray, Tommy
Putis, Joseph
Maul, Andrew
Drew, Will
Storey, Carter
Goalies
Crement, Keaton
Munao, John
Ball, Weston
Team Baily (Away)
Devine, Zach
Romberger, Sam
Rutherford, Thomas
Campbell, Brian
LaBarre, Nate
Pasdo, Dominic
LaBarre, Nate
MacDonald, Sean
Alesia, Brandon
Ayers, Luke
Gonzalez, Justion
Altekruse, Ian
Hawver, Mason
Clamage, Garrett
Llaneta, Josh
Llaneta, Tyler
Kline, Gavon
Lotito, Maul
McGuinness, Matty
Carroll, Jack
Goalies
Rorer, Christian
Nigrelli, Joshua
Ithal, Tyler
January 24, 2020
Illinois West Ends Regular Season, Playoffs to Begin
Illinois West has completed the regular season and our playoffs have begun. A very competitive regular season saw a resurgent Hinsdale Central club come out on top at both the Varsity and Junior Varsity levels. Maine was right on their heels in both divisions. The final regular season standings for the 2019-2020 season are below:
VARSITY
Hinsdale Central HS
Maine Township HS
Naperville North HS
Waubonsie HS
Wheaton West HS
Glenbard HS
Neuqua Valley HS
Naperville Central HS
Carl Sandburg HS
Lincoln Way HS
DHS Hockey
Lyons Township HS
Benet HS
JUNIOR VARSITY
Hinsdale Central HS
Maine Township HS
Glenbard HS
Neuqua Valley HS
Wheaton West HS
Oswego HS
Naperville North HS
Waubonsie HS
Lincoln Way HS
DHS Hockey
Naperville Central Hockey
Carl Sandburg HS
Lyons Township HS
Illinois West Celebrates a Spirited Varsity All Star Game
Illinois West held its annual Varsity All Star Game on January 21st at Willowbrook Ice Arena. The game was spirited and high scoring and all spectators were well entertained throughout. After 60 full minutes of play, the away team, Team Mrofcza, scored on the fourth shootout goal for a thrilling 16 – 15 win over Team Dombro. Will Misicko was named player of the game for Team Dombro while Sam Ruffolo was named player of the game for Team Mrofcza. Goalie Rhett Bergevin from Team Mrofcza was selected Goalie of the Game. Thanks to all the players, coaches, officials and fans who helped make this a very fun event.
Illinois West Playoffs Begin 1/23
Illinois West playoffs have begun. The initial round robins began on January 23rd. The full schedule is available on the Illinois West website. Both Varsity and Junior Varsity have been divided into two brackets for the round robin. Upon completion, the brackets will be set for the West Cup, the Scholastic Cup and Founders Cup. Follow Illinois West website for standings and further information as West playoffs move along. We hope to see you at the rink!
December 23, 2019
Illinois West has named its Varsity All Stars. The game will be as follows:
Willowbrook Ice Arena
Tuesday, January 21, 2020 | 7:30PM
Each Illinois West team nominates their own All Stars who are then rostered to play in the Varsity All Star Game. The goalies are selected by the league. Goalies are chosen based on performance, year, games played and more. Coaches from the previous regular season’s Varsity winner and runner-up will coach the two teams. The 2020 Varsity All Star Game coaches are Coach Dombro from Waubonsie and Coach Mrofcza from Maine. A top skater from each team will be chosen by the opposing team’s coach and a single goalie from both teams will be chosen by the league as Stars of the Game.
Congratulations to the following players for being named to the 2019-2020 Varsity All Star rosters!
*Goalies will be announced in January*
Wheaton West Donates over $3000 in Presents to Ronald McDonald House of Winfield
Wheaton West Hockey Club partnered with the Ronald McDonald House (RMH) of Winfield again in 2019. The players presented the RMH with over $3,000 in presents from donations they received from family, friends, and neighbors. RMH officials stated that Wheaton West has donated over $6,000 in gifts over the past two years.
The gifts that the players bought will be available to families who use the RMH while their loved ones are being treated for brain cancer through Central DuPage Hospital. Donations for the RMH are accepted throughout the year. Families can also use the impressive kitchen to prepare dinners or desserts for families using the rooms at the RMH.
Illinois West is proud of the Wheaton West players as they brightened the holidays for many families that are going through difficult times in their lives.
November 25, 2019
As has become our tradition, Illinois West High School Hockey League will hold a full slate of outdoor games in December and January. The games will feature both Varsity and Junior Varsity teams at three outdoor rinks: the Bobby Hull Community Ice Rink in Cicero, IL, the Elmhurst YMCA in Elmhurst, IL, and Iceland Skate in Niles, IL. In all, ten games will be held showcasing twenty Illinois West teams. Please come out and enjoy a true High School Hockey experience. There is no charge. The games will take place as follows:
December 13, 2019
Hinsdale Central Varsity @ Lyons Township 8:00PM – Bobby Hull
Hinsdale Central JV @ Lyons Township 6:00PM – Bobby Hull
December 28, 2019
Wheaton West JV @ Lincoln Way 3:30PM – Elmhurst YMCA
Neuqua Valley JV @ Sandburg 5:30PM – Elmhurst YMCA
December 29, 2019
Neuqua Valley Varsity @ Sandburg 10:00AM – Bobby Hull
DuPage Stars Varsity @ Benet 11:45AM – Bobby Hull
DuPage Stars JV @ Oswego 2:30PM – Elmhurst YMCA
January 5, 2020
Maine Varsity @ Glenbard 1:15PM – Iceland Skate
Maine JV @ Glenbard 3:00PM – Iceland Skate
January 13, 2020
Wheaton West Varsity @ Lincoln Way 7:00PM – Bobby Hull
September 20, 2019
Illinois West High School Hockey League is ready to begin another year of great high school hockey competition. As always, the League will support a robust Varsity and Junior Varsity Program. In total, 26 teams will participate for the 2019-2020 season. An expected 22 game regular season followed by expanded playoffs will ensure all teams reach at least 30 games. The League playoff winners will play on from there. The League plans an outdoor game per team around the New Year. The schedules for all League games have been posted on the Illinois West website. Regular season games will take place the last weekend in September and run through January. Playoffs will be completed in February allowing all teams to be ready to begin State playoffs in March.
The League held our annual goalie clinic at All Seasons Ice Arena the last week of July. It was our 10th year! Over 35 League goalies participated in the 4 day clinic. Both on- and off-ice instruction was provided by instructors from Good as Gould Goalie Schools led by Patrick Meek. League teams provided shooters each night to ensure great results for the participating goalies. Fantastic job getting all our participating goalies ready for tryouts and the season.
Illinois West has been innovative in our efforts to improve our zero tolerance policy. Zero Tolerance will again be a high priority for Illinois West. Any parent ejected from a League game will result in a fine to the team. The fines escalate with any subsequent offense. We are pleased to report that this policy resulted in only a very limited number of ejections and no repeat ejections this past season. Each parent is required to sign a League provided zero tolerance form so there can be no question about the policy nor its enforcement. Our goal this year is no zero tolerance ejections. In addition to this policy, the League provides each team laminated signs for posting at each game reminding fans this is a high school sport and abusive behavior towards, players, officials, or other fans will not be tolerated. We like to remind parents and spectators that they are welcomed guests and to enjoy the game. We also remind them that any inappropriate behavior or language will not be tolerated, and should they engage in that behavior they will no longer be welcome as a guest. All involved in youth hockey need to help clean up abusive behavior and make the game fun for all!
The League added a new ice rink to our rotation last season. The Willowbrook Ice Arena became a regular rink for League games. West is looking forward to expanding this relationship with Willowbrook Ice Arena this year. West will continue our very long term commitment with All Seasons Ice Arena. All Seasons has hosted West games for over 25 years, and we look forward to many more games for years to come.
Stay up to date with the latest news by visiting our League website at http://www.illinoiswesthockey.com.
See you at the rink and enjoy your youth hockey!
March 27, 2019
Illinois West State Champions
Illinois West High School Hockey produced two State Champions. Congratulations to Waubonsie-Metea Hockey for winning the Combined Varsity State Championship. Waubonsie-Metea defeated Glenbard Hockey 4 – 3 in double overtime at the United Center last Friday.
Congratulations to Wheaton West Combined Junior Varsity for repeating as State Champions. Great job by all involved. Wheaton West defeated Prairie Ridge 2 – 0 to claim the 2019 title.
Illinois West Final Four Teams
Illinois West placed two teams in the final four for the Junior Varsity Combined division. In addition to the Champions, Wheaton West and Maine reached the final four. Maine was defeated by the ultimate champs 4 – 3 in a hard fought game. Congratulations to Maine for reaching the final four.
In the Varsity Combined division, Illinois West placed three of the final four teams. In addition to the ultimate Champions, Waubonsie-Metea, Glenbard and Maine also reached the final four. Glenbard fell to Waubonsie-Metea in the final as Maine fell to Glenbard in the semi-finals. Congratulations to all three teams for reaching the final four.
In all, Illinois West placed five of the eight final four teams in the Combined Junior Varsity and Varsity State tournament.
Illinois West Final Standings
The Illinois West 2018 – 2019 standings reflect our overall strength in the State Tournament.
Varsity West Cup – Waubonsie-Metea Hockey
Varsity Scholastic Cup – Sandburg Hockey
Varsity Founders Cup – Oswego Hockey
Junior Varsity West Cup – Wheaton West
Junior Varsity Scholastic Cup – Hinsdale Central
Junior Varsity Founders Cup – Neuqua Valley Hockey
Illinois West Announces League Awards for the 2018 – 2019 Season
2018/2019 All Conference Players
Zachary Lupori – Glenbard Hockey
Jack Ferrino – Hinsdale Central Hockey
Richard Araujo – Hinsdale Central Hockey
Anthony Salemi – Maine Township Hockey
Jack Blanchard – Neuqua Valley Hockey
Joseph Dalton – OPRF Hockey
Jacob Grabarek – Oswego Hockey
Maxwell Dukovac – Oswego Hockey
Connor Fullick – Sandburg Hockey
Zach Pearce – Waubonsie / Metea Valley Hockey
Jacob Baxter – Wheaton West Hockey
Tyler Kuta – Wheaton West Hockey
Nathan Rutledge – Wheaton West Hockey (repeat)
Varsity Top Line
Brett Quinn – Glenbard Hockey
Jimmy Nelles – Maine Township Hockey
Cameron Moore – Naperville Central Hockey
Frank Novak – Naperville Central Hockey
Daniel Boscarino – Naperville North Hockey
Owen Metric – OPRF Hockey
Justin Howard – Waubonsie / Metea Valley Hockey
Varsity Goalie Most Shots Faced
Liam Casto – Benet Redwings Hockey
Junior Varsity Leading Scorer
Jason Kliment – Glenbard Hockey
Junior Varsity Top Line
Jelani Wilson – DuPage Stars Hockey
Alex Montanile – Maine Township Hockey
Nicholas LaValle – Maine Township Hockey
Patrick Burke – Naperville Central Hockey
Jake Bajusz – Naperville North Hockey
Callum Dickel – OPRF Hockey
Michael Lena – Wheaton West Hockey
Junior Varsity Goalie Most Shots Faced
Keegan Alvis – Oswego Hockey
Illinois West Scholastic Achievement Award
Fernando Lisboa – Benet Redwings Hockey
Kyle Dingle – Lincoln-Way Hockey
Anders Lempia – OPRF Hockey
Luke Carter – Sandburg Hockey
Nathan Rutledge – Wheaton West Hockey
Illinois West Humanitarian Award for Community Service
Cole Goggio – Waubonsie / Metea Valley Hockey
Illinois West Community Service Award
Owen Metric – OPRF Hockey
Nick Johnson – Oswego Hockey
Jake Elliott – Sandburg Hockey
Ryan Elliott – Sandburg Hockey
Illinois West Leadership Award
Harrison Proctor – OPRF Hockey
Jackson Cushing – OPRF Hockey
Illinois West Sportsmanship Award
Aidan Honan – Maine Township Hockey
Brendan Whelan – Naperville Central Hockey
Michael Lena – Wheaton West Hockey
Illinois West Dedication to Hockey Award
Sam Guillot – OPRF Hockey
Illinois West Presidents Award for Community Service
Ben Baker – Waubonsie / Metea Valley Hockey
Matt Baker – Waubonsie / Metea Valley Hockey
Illinois West Presidents Award for Perseverance & Dedication
Elliot Villeneuve – Waubonsie / Metea Valley Hockey
Illinois West Presidents Award for Club Involvement
Patti McDonnell – Neuqua Valley Hockey
Therese Rath – Wheaton West Hockey
Illinois West Presidents Award for Club Dedication
Jayne Kill – Naperville Central Hockey
Illinois West Varsity Coach of the Year
Greg Mrofcza – Maine Township Hockey
Illinois West Junior Varsity Coach of the Year
Brendon Austin – DuPage Stars Hockey
Illinois West Dedication Award – Recognition for Building and Growing the Hockey Club
Steve Climo – Naperville North Hockey
William Driscoll – Naperville North Hockey
Illinois West President Award for Club Leadership
Mike Cipra – DuPage Stars Hockey
Illinois West Goalie Clinic for 2019 – 2020 Season
Illinois West will again hold our annual Goalie Clinic in late July / early August at All Seasons Ice Arena. Please check the Illinois West Website to ensure your participation. Illinois West will update the specifics as the time draws nearer.
Enjoy the off season. See you in the Fall!
February 26, 2019
Waubonsie /Metea Varsity won the Illinois West Cup over Maine two games to none! Game #1 was a 6 – 1 win and game #2 went into a shootout where Waubonsie/Metea was victorious 3 – 2 and crowned the Illinois West High School Hockey League Varsity Champions for 2018-2019 season. Congratulations to Waubonsie/Metea. Both teams are now off to the Combined Varsity State tournament.
In the Varsity Scholastic division, Carl Sandburg High School defeated Wheaton West in 2 games to win the crown. Congratulations to Carl Sandburg High School, and good luck to both teams as they compete in the Varsity Combined State Championship.
The Illinois West Playoffs continue this week. Come out and watch some great playoff hockey games. All games schedules can be found on the Illinois West website. Click HERE for Illinois West playoff status.
Illinois West is pleased to announce our Awards for the 2018 – 2019 regular season. As always, we cannot award everyone but this year we have an outstanding list of awardees! Please click HERE to view a complete list of 2018-19 award recipients.
The Junior Varsity All Star game will be played Sunday, March 3rd at All Seasons Ice Arena at 4:40PM. Come out an watch these outstanding players! Please click on images above to enlarge.
We are proud to share that our Illinois West teams secured the top four seeds at the Varsity Combined State tournament. Congratulations to:
Waubonsie/Metea – #1 seed
Glenbard – #2 seed
Maine – #3 seed
Wheaton West – #4 seed
Please visit the Illinois West High School Hockey website homepage for up to date information.
January 29, 2019
Varsity All Stars Compete
The Illinois West Varsity All Stars played the All Star game on Tuesday, January 15th at All Seasons Ice Arena. The visitors, Team Dyson, defeated the home squad, Team Hawkins by a score of 10 – 4. Everyone had a great time and all participants received an All Star T-shirt. An All Star Goalie of the Game was selected. Jacob Grabarek of Oswego stopped all eight shots on goal. Jacob was the only goalie to finish his period with a 100% save percentage. Congratulations Jacob.
Illinois West Winter Classic Games a Big Success
Illinois West completed all our outdoor games this year. All twenty nine teams participated and a good time was had by all. Below are some team supplied photos from our Classics.
Wheaton West Gives Back
All the Wheaton West players from all three teams participated in a new fund raising event for the past holidays this year. The teams worked to collect over $2400 for the Ronald McDonald House of Winfield, a partner of Central DuPage Hospital. The funds were used to purchase requested items including clothes, toys, books and other items for the families at the Ronald MacDonald facility. The teams were afforded a detailed tour of the facility when presenting the donation.
This is the first year Wheaton West and the Ronald McDonald House have partnered but Wheaton West looks forwarding to continuing this effort next holiday season. Thanks boys for the support for a great cause.
Carl Sandburg Honors Fallen Teammate
On Friday December 28, 2018, the Sandburg Eagles Hockey Club hosted the annual David Dolitsky Memorial Alumni Game at Arctic Ice Arena. The Eagles alumni game is in memory of former Eagle player David Dolitsky who died tragically in 2016 after being struck by a vehicle while he was mowing the lawn. Two games were played between the alumni and the current Eagles JV and Varsity team. More than 40 alumni showed up to participate in the games followed by a pizza party afterward. The Dolitsky family was presented with a memorial jersey from the club in memory of their son. The alumni skaters were given the same jerseys to wear during these annual games. The event was a huge success. The Eagles Hockey Club have a scholarship fund set up in David Dolitsky’s name and information can be found on the Eagles website.
December 26, 2018
Illinois West High School Hockey League has 15 outdoor games scheduled over December and January. Come see your favorite teams battle the elements as well as each other in their regular season games. See below for full outdoor game schedule.
Naperville Central High School Junior Varsity & Varsity Teams Give Back to Community
This holiday season Naperville Central High School (NCHS) Junior Varsity and Varsity teams found ways to give back to the community. In the past, they have donated to Toys for Tots and have volunteered at Feed My Starving Children. This year, Senior Rocco Pintozzi helped organize a collection of toys for a local toy drive called Giftmart. Giftmart is an organization that sells toys at a discounted price to low-income families in the East Aurora, Joliet, and Naperville areas. Parents are able to purchase toys for $2 each, allowing them to maintain dignity during the season. Members of the NCHS Junior Varsity and Varsity hockey teams brought in new toys for Giftmart.
On the night of their December 8 games, the NCHS teams donated approximately 70 new toys for the Giftmart sale that occurred on December 15. It turned out to be a huge success! The teams felt great knowing the parents of low-income families in the area were able to provide their children with toys for the holidays and that they made a difference in their community. The Giftmart toy drive was the beginning of a new annual tradition for the NCHS family.
Neuqua Valley Hockey Club Strengthens Efforts to Pay It Forward
For a number of years, the Neuqua Valley Hockey Club (NVHC) has volunteered to help local organizations in their community. This year, the teams have stepped up their efforts to pay it forward by increasing the number of events in which the players participated. Since September, NVHC players and parents have participated in projects serving Project Linus, Cards for Hospitalized Kids, Feed My Starving Children, Leaf Raking for Seniors through DuPage Senior Citizens Council, #DanceOn, Lambs Fold Shelter, and Giftmart. In January, members of NVHC will be serving at Hesed House.
On mornings when they could be sleeping late, or nights when they could be out with their friends, the players have instead chosen to give their time to make a difference in the lives of those served by these organizations. To date, NVHC players have given 203 hours in service projects. One of their players, Alex Lussier, was even named by the Blackhawks Service Crew as a Volunteer of the Month for November. Neuqua Valley Hockey Club knows that they are privileged to participate in a sport they love, but also know the importance of paying it forward.
Lyons Township and Hinsdale Central High Schools
As mentioned in our November Illinois West update, Lyons Township and Hinsdale Central High schools participated in joint efforts to raise funds for the American Heart Association. Both the clubs are very pleased to announce they were able to raise over $2500 for the AHA. Thanks to the teams for their efforts and a special thanks to the parents and other volunteers who helped led this effort.
November 26, 2018
MAINE HOCKEY
On a recent ride home to Park Ridge from an evening practice at Franklin Park, a group of five Maine Junior Varsity Hockey players saved a home when they noticed an unusual fire next to a house. Stopping, they discovered the home was on fire and the occupants unaware.
By dialing 911, alerting the homeowners and helping to put out the fire before it spread, Joe Reda, Harrison Moore, John Spatz, Devin Schultz and Kyle Stinnett have been hailed as local heroes by the Park Ridge Fire Department. Please click HERE to read the full story in the Daily Herald. Please see the full story in the Daily.
HINSDALE CENTRAL HOCKEY | LYONS TOWNSHIP HOCKEY
Hinsdale Central and Lyons Township will play their annual Winter Classic game at the Bobby Hull outdoor rink in Cicero on December 14th. Both the JV and Varsity teams will participate. Both teams sell T-Shirts and bracelets before and during the games, hold a puck toss and gather corporate sponsors. Each year during this annual event, the teams select a different charity to benefit from their efforts. The designated charity this is the American Heart Association.
Additionally, both Hinsdale Central and Lyons Township individually support many community efforts to assist where needed. Lyons Township is supporting Lyons Township High School’s Secret Santa to make the holidays a little brighter for children in need, donating funds and gifts so all can enjoy a Merry Christmas.
Hinsdale Central players participated in the SkyRise Chicago Challenge for the second year on November 4th. The boys climbed all 103 floors of the Willis Tower to benefit the Shirley Ryan Ability Lab. Thirty-two (32) players participated and raised over $10,000.
OAK PARK RIVER FOREST HOCKEY
Over 20,000 pounds of food were collected by members of the Oak Park River Forest High School Hockey Club (Huskies) and the Park District of Oak Park’s Ice Bears Hockey on Saturday, September 22 as part of the Hockey Checks Hunger program. For the past five years these organizations have been joining together to collect donations for the Oak Park River Forest Food Pantry in an effort to help fight hunger in the Oak Park and River Forest communities.
Food Pantry Manager Ricardo Garcia said, “The guys really outdid themselves! I’m always impressed by how this group shows up and gets the job done unpacking and organizing donations in an hour. No other group works so efficiently.”
The food drive isn’t a one and done for the Huskies. The JV and Varsity squads share a monthly outing to the Pantry to continue their volunteer efforts throughout the season. Hockey Director Dave Dyson says, “It’s a great way to start the year and a great reminder that we have a real opportunity to make a positive impact in our community.”
WAUBONSIE HOCKEY
Every year, the players from the Warriors help the local community in many ways. This year they have chosen Cal’s Angles. Established in 2007 in memory of Cal Sutter, a 12 year old boy who lost his battle with Leukemia. The annual 12 Days of Christmas Program was created to help families with children fighting cancer under special circumstances during the holiday season. Contributions take care of the entire holiday by providing gifts for each child in the family from their wish list (up to $250 per child), a $150 gift card for their holiday dinner, a Gingerbread House and baked goods. The Warriors collect funds and contribute to this worthy cause. The Warriors also participate in the annual Naperville Noons Lions Turkey Trot. This is an evet benefiting the families in Naperville with hearing and vision difficulties.
LEAGUE NEWS
Illinois West is currently preparing for our annual outdoor winter games. Each of our 29 clubs will participate in an outdoor game around the New Year’s Holiday. As a league we have held these games going on eight years. The annual outdoor games count as regular season contests. Please click here go to the Illinois West High School Website to get full information on the winter games as well as current standings, schedules and general league information. We wish you all a safe and wonderful holiday season.
October 23, 2018
Illinois West High School League has started our season, and all 29 teams are off and running. The teams, as always, try to feel each other out early in the season. As expected, it looks like the season will include tight races in both the Varsity and Junior Varsity brackets. Check out the updated standings and keep up with your favorite players at: www.illinoiswesthockey.com. As the holidays approach, several of our clubs participate in various activities to provide holiday cheer to the less fortunate. Additionally, clubs have fund raising activities during the season to help offset the growing cost of the programs. We will highlight those activities in this column.
WIN BLACKHAWKS TICKETS: Naperville Central Redhawks 2018 Fundraising Raffle
A big part of the success of the Naperville Central Redhawk Hockey Association is reliant on fundraising. This year we are fortunate to have a very exciting prize to raffle off to raise funds for our program! Contact Dave Ferryman at dferryman2012@gmail.com or 630-470-9010 to purchase your raffle tickets. For $10 per ticket, you get a chance to WIN the following:
4 Tickets in Club Level Suite at the United Center for the
CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS vs PITTSBURGH PENGUINS
Wednesday, December 12, 2018
Parking Pass & Food & Drink included
INAUGURAL CARILLON CUP
Initiated by Varsity Head Coach Bill Driscoll of the Naperville North Huskies, the Carillon Cup High School Hockey Tournament will take place at All Seasons Ice Arena in Aurora, Ill., on Thursday, November 15th and Tuesday, November 20th. This inaugural tournament is modeled after the Beanpot in Boston (annual hockey event since 1952, highlighting four major college hockey schools) and will feature DuPage Valley high school hockey teams within the School Districts of 203 and 204: Warriors (Waubonsie and Metea Valley), Neuqua Valley, Naperville Central and Naperville North.
The Carillon Cup is named to honor the Naperville Millennium Carillon, (Moser Tower), and as such, the trophy will reflect the architecture of the notable tower located in downtown Naperville. The premise of this tournament is to promote high school hockey in Naperville / Aurora, and to optimize school rivalries among hockey players young and old. Follow us on Twitter for updates on the tournament @CarillonCup.
September 9, 2018
Illinois West High School Hockey League is ready to begin another year of great high school hockey competition. As always, the League will support a robust Varsity and Junior Varsity Program. In total, 29 teams will participate with two new schools joining the League for the 2018 – 2019 season. The Oswego program and a team from Benet Academy will both join the League this year. An expected 26 game regular season followed by playoffs will ensure all teams reach at least 30 games. The League playoff winners will play on from there. The League plans an outdoor game per team around the New Year. Schedules for all League games will be posted on the Illinois West web site as we get nearer the start of the season. First regular season games will take place the last weekend in September and run through January. Playoffs will be completed in February allowing all teams to be ready to begin State playoffs in February.
The League held our annual goalie clinic at All Season Ice Arena the last week of July. It was our 9th year! Over 40 League goalies participated in the 4 day clinic. Both on ice and off ice instruction was provided by instructors from Good as Gould Goalie Schools led by Patrick Meek. League teams provided shooters each night to ensure great results for the participating goalies. Fantastic job getting all our participating goalies ready for tryouts and the season.
Illinois West has been innovative in our efforts to improve our zero tolerance policy. Last season we instituted a new regiment for all league teams. A financial deposit was required of each team (all remaining funds returned at season end.) Any parent ejected from a League game resulted in a fine to the team. The fines escalated with any subsequent offense. We are pleased to report that this resulted in only a very limited number of ejections and no repeat ejections. Each parent is required to sign a League provided zero tolerance form so there can be no question about the policy nor its enforcement. Our goal this year is no zero tolerance ejections. In addition to this policy, the League provides each team laminated signs for posting at each game reminding fans this is a high school sport and abusive behavior towards, players, officials, or other fans will not be tolerated. We like to remind them they are welcomed guests to enjoy the game. We also remind them that any inappropriate behavior or language will not be tolerated, and should they engage in that behavior they will no longer be welcome as a guest. All involved in youth hockey need to help clean up abusive behavior and make the game fun for all!
The League has added a new ice rink to our rotation for the new season. The Willowbrook Ice Arena will become a regular rink for League games. We will host games on Thursday evenings as well as our normal Saturday and Sunday games. We look forward to becoming one of the original organizations at the new rink for a long term relationship with this venue.
Stay up to date with the latest news by visiting our website at http://www.illinoiswesthockey.com.
See you at the rink and enjoy your youth hockey!
May 7, 2018
Illinois West High School League to hold its annual Goalie Clinic
Illinois West High School Hockey League will again host a pre-season Goalie clinic for all West goalies at All Seasons Ice Arena. The clinic will be held for four evenings starting Monday, July 23rd through Thursday, July 26th from 6:40PM – 8:40PM each evening.
As begun last year, the clinic will consist of both on-ice and off-ice sessions each evening. All goalies from Illinois West are allowed to participate. The clinic is provided by the League at no cost to the participants. As is our practice, many of the coaches are past Illinois West goalies who are now playing in the college ranks. Pat Meek from Good as Gould Goalie School will manage the clinic with many experienced coaches to assist at each station. This will be the 9th year the Goalie clinic has been provided by West.
If space allows, West will accept other, non-West, high school goalies to participate at a cost of $300 for the clinic. Please send your sign up request to bkmeek@usermail.com.
Our member teams participate by providing shooters each evening allowing the on-ice coaches to work directly with the goalies. The clinics have been extremely successful and the goalies consistently request that we hold the clinic each summer. Goalies who participate head into fall tryouts confident and ready to go.
We look forward to another fantastic clinic this summer and a great 2018-2019 high school hockey season.
April 8, 2018
Illinois West High School Hockey has completed another successful season. All twenty-eight teams competed well and eleven players were recognized as “All State”.
All State Recognition
Vincent Sansone – Glenbard
Hayden Muehlbacher – Lincoln Way
Bryce Schrofer – Lincoln Way
Ben Granato – Neuqua Valley
Liam Burns – Oak Park River Forest
Max Goldstein – Oak Park River Forest
Spencer Smith – Oak Park River Forest
Cade Kenyon – Waubonsie
Zachary Pearce – Waubonsie
Conor Tully – Wheaton West
Nathan Rutledge – Wheaton West
Six teams advanced to the final four in State.
Varsity Combined
Glenbard
Waubonsie
Varsity White
Lake Park
JV Combined
Glenbard
Maine
Wheaton West
Illinois West had two teams advance to the State finals, Waubonsie in the Combined Varsity bracket and Wheaton West in the Combined Junior Varsity bracket. Wheaton West Combined Junior Varsity produced a State Champion effort. Congratulations to Wheaton West!
It was a very solid season for Illinois West players. In addition to the many accolades the players received for their on ice efforts, West awarded over sixty four percent of all players Academic Achievement awards. Additionally Illinois West players this year earned league awards for their off ice leadership and achievements. Awards earned included:
Illinois West Scholastic Achievement Award
Peter Gonzalez – OPRF Hockey Club
Stefan Theiss – Lyons Township
Illinois West Humanitarian Award for Community Service
Kyle Dingle – Lincoln-Way
Alex Dimitriou – Hinsdale Central
Alex Lee – Waubonsie Valley
Jason Brooks – Naperville Central
Conor Donlevy – Hinsdale Central
Mackendzie Crawford – Glenbard
Jack Hemmingway – Neuqua Valley
Illinois West Award for Leadership Award
Elijah Felton – Glenbard
John Sommerfeld – Lyons Township
Illinois West Sportsmanship Award
Liam Burns – OPRF Hockey Club
Sam Stapleton – Hinsdale Central
Illinois West Coaching Awards
Illinois West Varsity Coach of the Year
Dave Dyson – OPRF Hockey Club
Illinois West Junior Varsity Coach of the Year
Matt Tokarz – Wheaton West
Illinois West Presidents’ Award for Coaching Excellence
Keith Fahrforth – Wheaton West
Illinois West Coaches Recognition Dedication Award –
Recognition for Building and Growing the Hockey Club
Jim Swoyer – Hinsdale Central
As West traditionally does, a Goalie Clinic was offered a week before tryouts. This season, over forty goalies from all our schools participated. Our All-Star game was held after the West playoffs finished with eighty players for Varsity and Junior Varsity along with six goalies at each level. Very spirited games at both levels ensued.
Illinois West looks forward to next year for another strong season.
IHSHL – ILLINOIS WEST 2017-2018 SEASON
July 31, 2017
Illinois West High School Hockey League held its ninth annual Goalie Clinic during the last week of July. The clinic was held at All Seasons Ice Rinks Monday through Thursday for two hours each evening. All goalies from Illinois West were invited to participate. The clinic is provided by the League at no cost to the participants. As is our practice, many of the coaches are past Illinois West goalies who are now playing in the college ranks. Pat Meek of Good as Gould Goalie School managed the camp and kept all the participants involved and moving station to station. In total we had 42 goalies register for the camp and had an average of 28 each evening in attendance. Five stations are set to allow each goalie enough reps at each drill to get a solid workout. For the first time this year, we split the camp into two groups with a full off-ice workout as well. Each attendee was able to see more shots and get more personalized instruction in both the on-ice and off-ice portion of the camp.
Our member teams all participate by providing shooters each evening allowing the on ice coaches to coach and work directly with the goalies. The Camp was a success and all the goalies asked if we would do it again next year. Our goalies that participated now head into fall tryouts confident and ready to go.
Thanks to all who participated and supported the camp. Illinois West is looking forward to a great High School Hockey season.
IHSHL – ILLINOIS WEST 2016-17 Season
November 7, 2016
The Illinois West High School League season is well underway. With 27 teams in the 2016-17 season, the league is playing in area rinks every week. Click HERE to check out our website for all the information including schedules and standings. Stop by a local rink and see the game of your choice.
At Illinois West, many teams perform community service and fundraising events. Most recently, Glenbard Hockey hosted a “Pink (and Orange) at the Rink” fundraiser to benefit Breast Cancer and Pediatric Brain Cancer research.
Glenbard Hockey Gives Back
By Jen Schmidt
Glenbard Hockey has hosted an annual charitable fundraiser for several years during the month of October to raise funds for Breast Cancer Research, calling the event “Pink at the Rink.”
For the last three years, the club has also raised money for the Ross K. MacNeill Foundation (R33M). This Foundation is dedicated to fighting pediatric brain cancer in the memory of 11-year-old Ross MacNeill.
Ross was a devoted hockey player (#33) at Center Ice of DuPage with the Admirals Hockey Club and a Chicago Blackhawks fan that lived his life with joy, strength, courage and selflessness. He died of a malignant brain tumor in 2013.
Since Ross and his family are near and dear to the hearts of many in the Glenbard Hockey Family, the club changed the name of the fundraiser to “Pink (and Orange) at the Rink” as orange was Ross’ favorite color. The players continue to wear the club’s supply of Pink Jerseys on the ice, but off the ice, the theme is orange.
Club families make donations of baked goods, raffle prizes and even Blackhawks tickets that everyone in attendance can enjoy and have a chance to win. There is also an opportunity to split the pot in the Chuck-A-Puck contest during both the JV and Varsity games.
This year Glenbard Hockey was proud to donate just over $1600 to the Ross K. MacNeill Foundation.
August 13, 2016
Illinois West High School Hockey League held its 7th annual Goalie Clinic the last week of July. The clinic was held at All Seasons Ice Arena Monday through Thursday for one and a half hours each evening. All goalies from Illinois West are allowed to participate. The clinic is provided by the League at no cost to the participants. As is our practice, many of the coaches are past Illinois West goalies who are now playing in the college ranks. Bob Moretti manages the on-ice aspects of the camp and keeps all the participants involved and moving station-to-station. In total we had 34 goalies register for the camp and had an average of 25 each evening in attendance. Six stations are set to allow each goalie enough reps at each drill to get a solid workout.
Our member teams all participate by providing shooters each evening allowing the on-ice coaches to work directly with the goalies. The Camp was a success and all the goalies asked if we would do it again next year. Our goalies that participated now head into fall tryouts confident and ready to go.
Thanks to all who participated and supported the camp. We look forward to a great High School Hockey season.
IHSHL – ILLINOIS WEST 2015-16 Season
February 15, 2016
ILLINOIS WEST DIVISION CONCLUDES REGULAR SEASON
Illinois West High School Hockey has completed our regular season. Congratulations to Waubonsie Warriors for finishing the regular season in first place at Varsity and to York Duke’s for finishing first in Junior Varsity. Playoffs have begun with the completion of the 1st round robin on Sunday. The brackets for the next round of playoffs will be as follows:
WEST CUP VARSITY
Naperville Central
York
Waubonsie
Neuqua
WEST CUP JUNIOR VARSITY
Waubonsie
York
Glenbard
OPRF
SCHOLASTIC CUP VARSITY
Glenbard
Hinsdale Central
OPRF
Wheaton West
SCHOLASTIC CUP JUNIOR VARSITY
Naperville North
Hinsdale Central
Neuqua
Lyons
FOUNDERS CUP VARSITY
Sandburg
Naperville North
Lyons
Lincoln Way
Plainfield
FOUNDERS CUP JUNIOR VARSITY
Naperville Central
Plainfield
Lincoln Way
Sandburg
Lake Park
For the West Cup and Scholastic Cup at both the Varsity and Junior Varsity level the teams will play a 3-game series this week with 1 playing 4 and 2 play 3. The winners will square off for the 3-game series starting next week for the Cups. For the Founders Cup the remaining teams will play a single elimination series resulting in a final determination of the Cup winner.
Check the Illinois West High School Hockey League website for regular updates and playoff schedules.
Illinois West would like to congratulate the fourteen players named to the All-State squad. This honor shows these players’ dedication to their sport and the leagues overall strength. Congratulations! An extra shout-out to Samuel Weiss of Glenbard for receiving the inaugural Terry J. Stasica MVP Award!
Joseph Dipofi – Hinsdale Central
Cameron McNamara – Wheaton West
Zachary Lyons – Waubonsie
McKenzie Evans – Wheaton West
Daniel Pike – Waubonsie
Trevor Hansen – Sandburg
Jacob Stobart – Waubonsie
Eric Simkowski – Sandburg
Samuel Weiss – Glenbard*
Will Borrows – York
Reid Martin – Neuqua
Frank Wheatland – York
Matthew Blanchard – Neuqua
John Hatton – Naperville Central
January 17, 2016
ILLINOIS WEST HIGH SCHOOL HOCKEY COMPLETES ALL STAR GAMES
The Illinois West High School Hockey League completed both the Junior Varsity and Varsity All Star games on Monday January 11th at the Canlan Ice Arena. Forty skaters and six goalies participated at each level. For each game a skater was selected by the opposing coaches as the MVP for that team. The league selected a ‘Goalie of the Game’ at each level. At the Junior Varsity level for the winning visitors team, Joshua Weisz of Glenbard won the MVP and for the home club, Zach Stobart of Waubonsie Valley was awarded MVP honors. The Goalie of the Game from the visitors was Blake Butler of Neuqua Valley. On the Varsity side, Ryan Kelly from the winning visitors club was named MVP while Sam Weiss was named MVP for the home club. Both MVPs represent the Glenbard Hockey program. Cameron McNamara of Wheaton West was named Goalie of the Game.
In other news the regular season is winding down with next weekend being the final regular season games. Several teams are on the bubble for seedings so check our website for game schedules. The round robin portion of the seedings will begin the weekend of January 29, 2016. The schedule will be posted upon completion of the regular season so again check out our website. The round robin will determine final standing and division of all teams into the three brackets: West Cup, Scholastic Division and Founders Division. All round robin and playoff information will be kept updated on our website – www.illinoiswesthockey.com.
Looking forward to seeing you at the rink!
January 4, 2016
Illinois West High School Hockey League is in full swing. There are only three weeks left until the end of the season. The races in both Varsity and Junior Varsity are tight. Waubonsie leads the way in Varsity and York in Junior Varsity. All teams participate in the playoffs with up to 12 games to make it all the way to the West Cup Championship.
The All Star game will be played on January 11, 2016, at Canlan beginning at 6:10pm. All teams are represented. Please click HERE for 2015-16 Illinois West All Star rosters.
The Illinois West annual winter outdoor games were held over the holidays. Twenty-six of the twenty-seven teams participated. Games were held at the Bobby Hull Community Ice Arena in Cicero and at the Elmhurst YMCA. Thanks to both venues for the great job hosting games.
Varsity Bracket Results
- Hinsdale Central d. Lyons Township
- Plainfield d. Wheaton West
- OPRF d. Glenbard
- York d. Lincoln Way
- Neuqua Valley d. Naperville North
- Waubonsie d. Naperville Central
Junior Varsity Bracket Results
- Hinsdale Central d. Lyons Township (OT)
- Naperville North d. Lake Park
- York d. Sandburg
- Waubonsie d. Lincoln Way
- OPRF d. Neuqua Valley
- Glenbard d. Wheaton West
- Naperville Central d. Plainfield (OT)
Please continue to check the Illinois West website for team updates and league status.
December 21, 2015
Illinois West High School Hockey League teams played for Toys for Tots recently. York Hockey Club held its annual “Toys for Tots Night” fundraiser on Friday, December 4th at Addison Ice Arena where the Dukes played host to Oak Park River Forest High School (OPRF).
Since 2009, the York Hockey Club has collected Toys to be distributed to underprivileged children throughout the community. Beginning in 2012 York and OPRF joined forces, combing York’s “Toys for Tots Night” with OPRF’s “Hockey Checks Hunger” (where food donations are collected by OPRF to be distributed to local food banks).
“It is special to see two opposing clubs come together in their generosity for causes like these,” said senior York defenseman, Trevor Corsello, who also chaired the event this year for York as his Eagle Scout project. “These programs are really bigger than the games we played on the ice.” In total over 1000 toys were collected by over 80 players, families and businesses.
December 8, 2015
Illinois West High School Hockey League is in full swing as our Christmas break approaches. We are past the half way point in games played and as always the league is very competitive. This year Illinois West is fielding 27 teams between Varsity and Junior Varsity. Illinois West will again be sponsoring outdoor games on December 31st and January 1st for our teams. On New Year’s Day head to the Bobby Hull rink in Cicero or the YMCA rink in Elmhurst to see a game or two. Our All Star games will be held at Canlan in January so come out to catch the Junior Varsity and Varsity games on the evening of the 11th. Complete details can be found on our website; click HERE.
This year Illinois West has added a new feature to our league games; we hired Premier Sports Services to provide certified trainers for all our league games. Premier Sports Services provides athletic training services and concussion assessment. Hockey is their specialty having provided coverage for over 30 years at AHAI events, Junior Hockey events & showcases, regional and national tournaments and OPRF high school which is where this all started. Karen Hyde, co-owner of Premier Sports Services says “Every game we cover, at least one parent says they are glad we are there and coaches comment that they are glad that injury decisions have been taken out of their hands and they can concentrate on coaching.” Illinois West’s decision to provide athletic trainers for all of their teams takes the burden off individual teams to find coverage and allows us to assign one AT to a location to cover multiple games. I know that some of the reluctance regarding having an athletic trainer has been cost. It breaks down to about $2 per player per game. It’s not much different than car, house or medical insurance. You hope nothing happens, but if it does, someone is there to help.” Co-owner Lelia Siano comments “Concussions are a hot topic. Educating people and clearing away the myths is a focus of ours. We’re fortunate that in Illinois, the concussion law allows athletic trainers to determine if an athlete has a concussion and to clear a player from a concussion. But that’s not the only reason we’re there. Athletic trainers are considered medical professionals by the AMA. Trained in orthopedic injuries as well as other injuries which may arise during a game. If we can’t treat something, we refer the athlete to the appropriate care agent.” Illinois West continues to lead the way to provide the best and safest hockey experience for our student players.”
IHSHL – ILLINOIS WEST 2014-15 SEASON
Illinois West’s Sixth Annual Goalie Clinic a Huge Success
Illinois West High School Hockey League held its sixth annual Goalie Clinic during the last week of July. The clinic was held at All Seasons Ice Rinks Monday through Thursday for one and a half hours each evening. All goalies from Illinois West were invited to participate. The clinic is provided by the League at no cost to the participants. As is our practice, many of the coaches are past Illinois West goalies who are now playing in the college ranks. Bob Moretti manages the on ice aspects of the camp and keeps all the participants involved and moving station to station. In total we had 36 goalies register for the camp and had an average of 25 each evening in attendance. Six stations are set to allow each goalie enough reps at each drill to get a solid workout.
Our member teams all participate by providing shooters each evening allowing the on ice coaches to coach and work directly with the goalies. The Camp was a success and all the goalies asked if we would do it again next year. Our goalies that participated now head into fall tryouts confident and ready to go.
Thanks to all who participated and supported the camp. Illinois West looks forward to a great High School Hockey season.
Illinois West Concludes a Successful 2014-2015 Season
By Brian Meek ~ Illinois West High School Hockey had a great 2014 – 2015 Season. The league had many highlights starting with our annual goalie camp in August at All Seasons Ice Arena. We started this camp six years ago and had eight goalies from league teams attend each night. This year, we had over thirty-five goalies from the league each evening. Our goalie camp has great success getting the goalies ready for the season. Next year we plan to add a defensive camp as well; details will follow.
As has become our tradition, each team participated in a winter classic game over the New Year’s Holiday. The Bobby Hull Community ice rink in Cicero and the YMCA in Elmhurst hosted this season’s games. The weather was perfect and all the players, coaches and fans enjoyed spirited high school hockey. Additionally this season we added an outdoor playoff game between Plainfield and DuPage Stars at the MB Financial Park in Rosemont in February.
Illinois West held its annual Junior Varsity and Varsity All Star Games at Canlan Ice Sports Arena in Romeoville in January. The coaches nominate the players from each team and from that pool the All Star coaches draft their teams. Goalies are selected by the Board and assigned to each team. Both games were extremely competitive and each were decided by one goal.
The most important Award granted by the league each year is our Academic All Star. The qualifications are simple; if your High School recognizes you for academic achievement then you become an Academic All Star. This year West exceeded its record as seventy one percent (71%) of our player were so honored. If hockey teaches anything it is that hard work pays off for you as an individual and the team as a whole. You each put in the work required for this honor. Congratulations to all our academic achievers. The Board of Illinois West is proud of each and every one of you.
As Awards were announced, Illinois West again set our record with eleven (11) of our Varsity players named to the All-State Team by AHAI. Andrew Barnett, Alex DiFranco, Scott Dunsire, Eric Flakus, Cole Harris, Harrison Kohl, Bradley Neal, Troy Nelson, Even Pardo, Nick Pietro and Eric Simkowski. Congratulations to you all. Illinois West also awarded Varsity Coach of the Year to Dan Granato of Neuqua Valley and Junior Varsity Coach of the Year to Joe Fenzel of York High School. Dan Granato also was named AHAI High School Coach of the Year and was honored at the United Center during the State Championship on Sunday, March 22, 2015.
Illinois West can claim again this year the Combined Varsity State Champions. After falling last year in an all Illinois West final, Glenbard came through a tough bracket to defeat Maine in a very good overtime game 4 – 3. Congratulations to Coach Hawkins, the staff and all the players for a great season! West also congratulates Waubonsie Combined Varsity and Glenbard Combined Junior Varsity for final four appearances. Waubonsie Combined Junior Varsity made it to the State Finals and fell to Prep Black in overtime, 3-2. Nice job team!
We look forward to the 2015-2016 season. We expect new innovations in our league. We will experiment with having a qualified trainer at all our September and October games with an eye toward continuing throughout the regular season. As mentioned, we are planning a defensive camp in late August or early September and look forward to seeing the response.
Thanks to all who helped make 2014-2015 one of the best Illinois West seasons yet. See you all next year!
Illinois West Completes another Great Season
Illinois West High School Hockey has completed another great season. Our seniors look forward to whatever awaits them as our underclassmen, in many cases, look forward to spring league. This past weekend our playoffs completed and our regular season Champions at the Varsity level, Neuqua Valley (25–1–0), completed a sweep in the playoffs. Neuqua Valley compiled an overall record of 35–1–0 in West play. What a great season! Neuqua defeated number 4 seed, Waubonsie Valley in 2 games to win the West Cup. Both games were very well played and both required a shootout. Game 1 ended 3–2 and game 2 ended 4–3. Congratulations to both teams for a well-played series.
Waubonsie Valley won the Junior Varsity West Cup in a 3 games series over Hinsdale Central. Waubonsie prevailed in game 3 on Sunday, March 1 after winning game 1 on the evening of Friday, February 27. Both teams played very competitive hockey; congratulations to both teams.
Overall Season Winners
Regular Season Varsity
Neuqua Valley – Winner
Carl Sandburg – Runners-Up
Regular Season Junior Varsity
York – Winner
Hinsdale Central – Runners-Up
Illinois West Cup Varsity
Neuqua Valley – Champions
Waubonsie Valley – Runners-Up
Illinois West Cup Junior Varsity
Waubonsie Valley – Champions
Hinsdale Central – Runners-Up
Scholastic Cup Varsity
Glenbard – Champions
Lincoln Way – Runners-Up
Scholastic Cup Junior Varsity
York – Champions
Plainfield – Runners-Up
Founders Cup Varsity
Oak Park River Forest – Champions
Lyons Township – Runners-Up
Founders Cup Junior Varsity
Lyons Township – Champions
Oak Park River Forest – Runners-Up
Thanks to all the players, coaches, families and fans who have helped make Illinois West High School Hockey a success again this year!
Illinois West High School Hockey 1st Round Complete
Illinois West High School Hockey has completed the round robin seeding play following their regular season. After completing the regular season, IWHSH divides both Varsity and Junior Varsity into two brackets each for round robin play. Each team in each bracket plays all the other teams in their bracket to determine final playoff seeding. The top four teams from the top brackets play for the West Cup in a three game series based on round robin play. The next four teams play for the Scholastic Cup and the final teams play for the Founders Cup in single elimination. The standings came down to the final day at Varsity with Neuqua Valley (finished round robin play at 6 – 0) defeating Naperville Central (finished round robin play at 5 – 1) for the first place and the top seed. The final standings are as follows:
VARSITY
No. 1 Neuqua plays No. 4 Carl Sandburg
No. 2 Naperville Central plays No. 3 Waubonsie Valley
The winners will face off for a three game series for the Varsity West Cup.
No. 5 Glenbard plays No. 8 Hinsdale Central
No. 6 York plays No. 7 Lincoln Way
The winners will face off for a three game series for the Varsity Scholastic Cup.
No. 13 Plainfield plays No. 12 DuPage Stars
The winner will then play No. 9 Lyons. No. 10 Wheaton West will play No. 11 Oak Park River Forest. The two winners will play a single game for the Founders Cup.
JUNIOR VARSITY
No. 1 Waubonsie plays No. 4 Lincoln Way
No. 2 Glenbard plays No. 3 Hinsdale Central
The winners will face off for a three game series for the Junior Varsity West Cup.
No. 5 Neuqua Valley plays No. 8 Plainfield
No. 6 Naperville North plays No. 7 York
The winners will face off for a three game series for the Junior Varsity Scholastic Cup.
No. 9 – No. 14 (Oak Park River Forest, Carl Sandburg, Lyons, Naperville Central, Wheaton West and DuPage Stars) will play single elimination games for the Junior Varsity Founders Cup.
The games begin this week. Schedules are available on www.illinoiswesthockey.com.
Good luck to all!
Illinois West High School Hockey League hosted its annual All Star Games at Canlan Ice Sports in Romeoville on Monday, January 12th. Forty skaters from both Varsity and Junior Varsity with six goalies each participated in the games. As expected, the games were well paced and very close. The home team won the JV game 5 – 2 and the MVPs named were Max Rickerson and Ben Granato. Ryan Repata was named goalie of the game. For the Varsity, the Visitors won with an exciting finish in the final seconds 6 – 5. Eric Simlowski and Alex DiFranco were named the game MVPs. Ryan Apter was named goalie of the game. Thanks to all the volunteers and Canlan for all the efforts to make these games special for the participants.
Illinois West High School Hockey hosted outdoor games for 26 of our teams on New Year’s day. The weather cooperated and allowed all involved to have a great time. The Bobby Hull Community Ice Rink in Cicero hosted the Varsity games and the Elmhurst YMCA of Metro Chicago hosted our Junior Varsity games. The League appreciates the efforts of both rinks to accommodate our crowds. See you all next year for another version of the Illinois West “Winter Classic”.
Illinois West Varsity Players Attend College Day Seminar
Illinois West varsity players were invited to attend a College Day Seminar hosted by Illinois West. This program was designed to discuss the ACHA program and opportunities to play college hockey after high school. With the college coaches on each bench, a select number of players from each club were also offered the opportunity to scrimmage. Representatives from Bradley, Iowa, Lewis, Northern, Northwestern and Robert Morris were on hand to discuss the ACHA and their programs. DHS Head Coach Chaz Davis also spoke during the seminar, addressing his years as not only a player in the ACHA, but a coach. After Head Coach Rinaldo (D2) of Northern Illinois University and Tom Wendlandt, Robert Morris Director of Operations discussed ACHA in general, each college discussed their campus size, majors offered, and the hockey program at their school. Time was also allotted for the players to meet with each college, introduce themselves, and discuss their program. Then it was off to the ice! With over an hour of scrimmage time, the players had a fantastic time in a running clock scrimmage, joining players from each club as they displayed their skills. This was a phenomenal opportunity for the players to explore their college and hockey future. “I have spoken to many of the ACHA coaches, and they are always looking for an opportunity to see the high school players, and let them know there is a place for them in college hockey” said Glenn Jauch, VP of Hockey Operations for Illinois West. “I know many players that have graduated from their high school programs and now are playing college hockey. It’s like heading into your freshman year of college and having your own fraternity and making new lifelong friends through the hockey programs.” President of Illinois West, Jim McKeague, was also on hand for the event. “Glenn put a lot of effort into putting this program together, and I think he did an outstanding job. I’m sure this is just one of many College Days Illinois West will be hosting in the future. The feedback from the colleges, as well as the parents and players attending, was very positive. The colleges were able to explain what they have to offer, and the players and parents had their questions answered. It was a great day of hockey at the rink.”