USA Hockey Female Honors Award

(The USA Hockey Female Honors Award recognizes hockey associations that are leaders in the growth, development and promotion of ice hockey for women.)

Valley Youth Hockey Organization

From sporting one team nine years ago to seven competitive teams this past season, the Valley Youth Hockey Girls program has grown to become a nationally recognized and well-respected force in the continued growth of girls’ and women’s hockey. 

Their decadeslong experience has taught them that if a female athlete does not have a team/place to call home, she often leaves the sport.

Valley’s growth model is focused on the youngest female athletes by offering free girls-only skates at the younger levels. Another essential element in their growth plans has been their collaboration with other associations. Through these efforts they have been able to develop competitive teams around the state. 

Their philosophy is not just about increasing their participation numbers. At the board level, they continue to examine the skill levels of players at each birth year and make a concerted effort to have teams playing at the appropriate age and skill level. 

They have also won their share of sectional and state championships at the 12U and 14U levels, and on the national stage with a Tier II 19U title in 2023.