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The International Junior ‘A’ Hockey League is a college promotional development league designed to develop young players to the college level. While there are tons of junior leagues far and wide across North America, the IJHL is easily one of the most innovative. For example, there are no fights permitted in the IJHL, while fighting is a staple in many other junior leagues, particularly in major junior where a five-minute penalty. In addition, the mission of the league is to explicitly emphasize academics, and to assist players with getting college opportunities. 

 

As the IJHL states, “the coaching staffs in the IJHL emphasize skill development, character, and sportsmanship while competing at a very high level of play.” Innovations even include strict dress codes for teams on and off the ice, and “a less travel concept” to help the players avoid long road trips. 

 

Developed in 2005, and known formerly as the Interstate Junior Hockey League, since the league adopted an unlimited import rule the level of play has grown drastically and the league now boasts and 12 teams at the Junior A Super Elite Division. Geographically the league includes a New England Division with 6 full time members and a Mid Atlantic Division with 6 full time members. The Full Season Jr Elite was transformed into a 6 team half season Jr Elite circuit this year. 

 

Check out the IJHL’s great site and active news posts on all its team and players moves – IJHL kids are constantly in the college hockey recruitment and pro spotlight. The league’s innovative approach to not only developing top hockey players but great citizens too is something that all amateur sports organizations could learn a thing or two from for 2012.

 

~ Editor, Goalline Nation