Kalamazoo Optimist Hockey Association named USA Hockey Model Association program

By Michael Caples –

On Friday, USA Hockey announced that Orchard Lake United will have some company as Model Association programs.

Hockey’s governing body announced that the Kalamazoo Optimist Hockey Association is one of three new USA Hockey Model Association programs.

KOHA joins the Orchard Lake United program as Michigan associations that are fully committed to following the American Development Model at the 8-and-under, 10-and-under and 12-and-under age groups. The ADM is designed to give players age-appropriate training to help them grow in both hockey and athletics in general.

“We are excited to welcome this next group of model associations,” said Kevin McLaughlin, senior director of hockey development for USA Hockey, in a release. “They’re committed to ensuring the best possible competition and training environment for kids involved in their programs.”

KOHA, along with the Kettler Capitals (Arlington, Va.), Montgomery (Maryland) Youth Hockey Association and San Jose Jr. Sharks, will receive support from USA Hockey in implementing the ADAM throughout their programs, including equipment, signage, and educational materials. The four programs will also receive staff support from USA Hockey’s national office in Colorado Springs, including coaching training and parent education that will begin in September.

“Since being implemented into our 8U program, the ADM has been a huge success,” said Brian Tulik, director of hockey operations for KOHA. “The players’ level of skill, passion and love of the game has increased, and seeing the young, smiling faces participating in this great game of ours is priceless. Although there are still a few people that think it can’t work, the sports science and research that has gone into the ADM and LTAD (Long-Term Athletic Development) prove otherwise. We look forward to our kids’ improved development and overall enjoyment of the game as we continue to implement the ADM throughout all divisions within our program.”

The ADM was launched in 2009 to support youth hockey programs across the nation. Orchard Lake United was the first to be recognized as a USA Hockey Model Association program, and has since been joined by Arvada (Colo.) Hockey Association, the Colorado Springs Hockey Association and the New Jersey Bandits.