February 2, 2010

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - The East Coast Hockey Conference, a new organization including four prominent youth hockey clubs in New England, has become the first league in the country to adopt USA Hockey’s new American Development Model at all age levels (mites to midgets).

“The American Development Model brings forward a positive modification of the landscape for youth hockey in our country,” said Ken Martel, director of the American Development Model. “We applaud the leaders in the East Coast Hockey Conference for their foresight and willingness to be the first. We know many more will follow because the ADM creates an environment that is best for our children.”

The ECHC includes the Boch Blazers, Boston Advantage, East Coast Wizards and New England Stars.

“I’m a big believer in the principles of the American Development Model,” said Mike Milbury, youth hockey coach, former National Hockey League player, coach and general manager, and broadcaster for the NHL on NBC. “We can’t continue to do what we’ve always done. We need to make changes and USA Hockey has done a wonderful job in putting forth this new development model, which puts an emphasis on skill development and having fun.”

The East Coast Hockey Conference includes more than 1,000 kids and the league will begin play this fall.

For more information on USA Hockey’s American Development Model, visit ADMKids.com.