WNY Has Girls Varsity Ice Hockey

It took 4 1/2 years of constant talking to school boards, school administrators and anyone that would listen, but the Girls 4 Varsity Ice Hockey Committee and players celebrated the formation of a Girls Varsity Ice Hockey League in Western New York last week.

At present seven schools have agreed to field six teams. One district is joining forces with another to make this a reality for our girls. This Fall, Williamsville, Amherst, Mgs. Martin Catholic Schools, Kenmore-Tonawanda, West Seneca and Orchard Park/Frontier will battle it out on the ice.

What makes this whole story so unique is that the parents and players that came together to make this happen are historically rivals on the ice through their local hockey organizations. Another thing that came out of this is that a whole group of people that barely knew or didn't know each other have formed a lasting friendship all in the name of a common cause--ice hockey for their girls!!

At the present time this Committee will be focusing on fundraising for those teams who have been directed to fund their team either totally or in part for the coming year. This due to the fiscal situation in the State and at the School District level.

Orchard Park has plans to sell red, white and blue necklaces at the July 4 celebration in Orchard Park; they will also have a booth at the Taste of Orchard Park on July 28 and will also be at the Orchard Park Street Dance on July 31. I urge anyone who can attend these events to stop over and support these girls as they work to raise money for their team.

In addition Orchard Park has sent many letters to businesses, individuals and organizations asking for cash donations. There are several levels to give including Founders, Premier, Sponsor, Donor and Super Fan. To learn more check out their page on Facebook.

As the move goes forward, the Athletic Directors are meeting regularly to work out schedules, ice times, coaching, refereeing and other particulars.

For those who don't feel a girls varsity league is necessary--let's look at how many of them would have made it on a boy's varsity team, how would collegiate scouts find them to offer scholarships so they can continue playing and how many will now have the opportunity to look at Team USA possibilities, coaching possibilities and a future as an adult in hockey.

Another event for girls is a Girls Hockey Camp being held at Leisure Rinks in the Buffalo area on July 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 11 and August 3 and 5. The skates will be held Noon to 1:30 p.m. daily. Registrations are due Sunday, June 20--short notice I realize. For information email dgilham@opschools.org

This is an amazing, historical happening for Western New York and Girls Ice Hockey. My congratulations to all who worked so hard.