History Of The Newark Ice Hockey Association

The history of the Newark Ice Hockey Association began in 1991. In the beginning the league was comprised of children and adults getting together to play hockey on Saturday mornings. Word of the association spread and soon the league took off.

In 1992, the league introduced ice hockey clinics on Saturday morning. The goal was to teach fundamentals to people interested in hockey. In addition the normal pick-up games were going on.

The next season saw the league receive its first funding. The funding started after the association joined the Police Athletic League. Through networking with other PAL organizations the association was able to receive its first grant. As a result hockey equipment was purchased and more interest in the league was generated.

In 1995 the association took on the name Newark Ice Hockey Association, which it uses today. The NIPA was registered with the United States Hockey Association. They were selected to the Mid-American district and began to compete with teams from other leagues. Adult hockey also increased during this time as pick-up games were a regular occurrence. They would often play two nights a week.

Today the league has ballooned in popularity from its humble beginnings. There are now over 17 divisions of hockey, most separated into age groups. There is also a women’s hockey division. In addition there are now adult hockey classes called Adult FUNdamentals which teach basic skills to adults interested in hockey. The association now has the tools to teach anyone regardless of age or gender how to play hockey.

Reference:

Newark Ice Hockey Association