Kich- first of all, great job with the forum.

Second to all those out there that continually bash club hockey. Hasnt the idea ever crossed some of your minds that hockey today is twice as big as it was in the 80's. That being said, there is a tremendous amount of talent every year that doesnt make it to NCAA or QMJHL or any of the other big time college/semi-pro programs. Why? There just isnt enough room for all the talent at big-time hockey schools. Some kids fall through the cracks, some focus on an education, and some just want to play for fun. The talent in this league, and Kich can second this since we both have been around this league for what to me feels like a lifetime, has grown by leaps and bounds thanks to the tireless efforts of men like Stan Melton, Ben Alexander, Larry Thatcher, Kich, John Lemond, etc. etc. Those are just a few off the top of my head but there have been countless individuals over the years who have dedicated their time and energy so you guys have the league we do today. I know it will never be confused with NCAA, but there is no reason MACHA shouldnt be mentioned in the same sentence. You all pay to play the game you love, whether your sacrifice be measured in dollars and sense or blood and sweat. What you have here is something to be proud of. Let the naysayers talk all they want, because thats all they do. Talk. You play. You have fun. Enjoy college hockey guys, it doesnt last forever. And trust me, you will miss it when it gone.

Good luck to all this year, make MACHA proud!

Kevin, I can not agree with you any more. Great way of putting it!!!

I couldn't have said it better myself Kevin. I know that the coaches of our Silver team (Walker, Chance Webb, myself) all coach because the passion is still there from our playing days. If only we got 2 more years of eligibility for grad school...

I am new to this forum. My son now plays in the MACHA after playing in the NAHL. Kevin, you are exactly right. The level of club hockey will continue to get better. There are a lot of players that don't get picked up by NCAA teams that want to continue playing. They play because they love the game. They know at this point in their career they are not going to play at a higher level. They are playing because they want to and club hockey gives them that opportunity while getting an education.