General | 1/27/2025 8:00:00 AM
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As the United States Hockey League (USHL) enters its mid-winter Board of Directors meetings beginning Monday, the League is emboldened by the success of its alumni and players at all levels of hockey. With all 16 member clubs having signed their declarations to compete in the 2025-2026 season, the league is preparing for its 25th season at the Tier 1 level and to build upon its success in developing the next wave of collegiate and professional stars.
The League continues to assert its dominance as the premier junior hockey league in North America, highlighted by its remarkable presence in the National Hockey League (NHL). To open the 2024-25 season, more than 195 USHL alumni were listed on NHL rosters, demonstrating the league’s unparalleled ability to develop elite talent.
Notable alumni include 2024 first-overall pick Macklin Celebrini (Chicago Steel/San Jose Sharks), Adam Fantilli (Chicago Steel/Columbus Blue Jackets) and Jeremy Swayman (Sioux Falls Stampede/Boston Bruins). Every NHL team’s opening night roster this season featured USHL alumni, with the Vancouver Canucks (12), Boston Bruins (11), and Columbus Blue Jackets (10) leading the league in former USHL players.
Since the start of the current 2024-2025 season, the league has seen unparalleled interest from investors and markets seeking expansion teams and the USHL is actively exploring multiple opportunities. Through the league’s newly appointed APEX Committee, the league is considering various initiatives to further enhance the player experience through technology, training disciplines and academic preparation.
“From NHL stars to NCAA champions and world-class coaches, the USHL is where the future of elite hockey begins,” USHL President and Commissioner Glenn Hefferan said. “Together, we will continue to grow and solidify our position as the top junior league in North America.”
“Our league provides the resources, structure, and competition necessary to develop the next generation of NHL stars,” Hefferan said. “This is a testament to our unwavering commitment to being the preeminent leader in the hockey world.”
In addition to players, USHL alumni have made significant contributions behind the bench, with coaches like Jon Cooper (Green Bay Gamblers/Tampa Bay Lightning) and Jim Montgomery (Dubuque Fighting Saints/St. Louis Blues) each having guided their NHL teams to success after coaching in the USHL.
A Proven Pathway for Player Development
Beyond its NHL representation, the USHL remains the undisputed leader in NCAA hockey development, with more than 50% of all NCAA Division I roster spots filled by USHL alumni. The league’s player-first approach, including a 2:1 practice-to-game ratio and a schedule with 92% of games played on weekends, provides its players with the optimal environment for athletic and personal growth.
Last year, the USHL led all junior leagues in NHL Draft picks for the eighth consecutive year, with 49 selections and 10 first-round picks, including Celebrini. This year, more than 50 active players and 15 alumni are featured in NHL Central Scouting’s Mid-Term Rankings, positioning the USHL for another standout performance at the 2025 NHL Draft. Top prospects include James Hagens (NTDP), Ryker Lee (Madison Capitols), and Ben Kevan (Des Moines Buccaneers).
International Success and Leadership
On the global stage, the USHL further solidified its reputation as a pipeline for excellence. At the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship, 22 USHL alumni helped lead Team USA to its second consecutive gold medal, a historic first for the U.S. The coaching staff featured several USHL veterans, including David Carle (former Green Bay Gamblers Assistant Coach), Brett Larson (former Sioux City Musketeers Head Coach and GM), and Garrett Raboin (former Lincoln Stars player).
The U.S. Junior Select Team, comprised entirely of USHL players and staff, also captured its second championship in three years at the 2024 World Junior A Challenge under the guidance of Waterloo Black Hawks head coach Matt Smaby.
Off-Ice Excellence
The USHL’s commitment extends beyond the ice. With more than 80% of active players holding NCAA Division I commitments, the league prioritizes academic success and personal development. Under the guidance of team academic advisors, USHL players thrive as student-athletes, while teams engage in impactful community initiatives, including volunteer activities and charitable fundraisers supporting causes such as mental health awareness and medical research.
Officials and Professional Opportunities
The USHL’s influence is not limited to players. The league has also established itself as a premier training ground for officials. Former USHL referee Chris Rooney recently became the first American-born NHL referee to officiate 1,500 NHL games, further highlighting the league’s ability to prepare talent for the highest levels of hockey.
