9U AA1 [2017]
The Jr. Amerks 9U AA1 team is designed to support young players as they continue developing fundamental skills, strong hockey habits, and confidence in a full-ice environment. At this level, the emphasis is on learning, growth, and creating a positive experience, while gradually introducing increased structure and competition.
The team will be led by Co–Head Coaches Ryan LaShomb and Chris Bayer, who bring complementary backgrounds and a shared commitment to youth development. Ryan LaShomb is a Rush, New York native who played local travel hockey before competing at Aquinas Institute High School and continuing his playing career at SUNY Cortland. He brings more than eight years of coaching experience, including work at the high school and AAA levels, and has been heavily involved in the organization’s Mite program in recent seasons.
Chris Bayer is a Rochester native with more than 30 years of experience in hockey as both a player and coach. He played locally with the Perinton Blades at the AA and AAA levels before competing with Rochester Institute of Technology’s ACHA Division I club hockey team, and later served as an assistant coach with that program. Most recently, Chris led the Jr. Amerks 8U Upper White team, guiding players through the transition from half-ice to full-ice hockey.
Together, Ryan and Chris emphasize skill development, strong habits, teamwork, and creating an environment where young players can learn, build confidence, and enjoy coming to the rink. The 9U AA1 program is built around a positive, growth-oriented culture that supports both individual development and team success.
Season Overview:
- Full Season with 40+ Games including tournaments
- Member of Western New York Amateur Hockey League
- Two team practices per week (Full and Shared)
- Dedicated skills and skating sessions bi-monthly
- Goaltender clinics by New Edge School of Goaltending throughout the season
- Off-ice training with Next Level Strength and Conditioning
- Team building and community service events
- Estimated costs of $1,500-2,000 in annual dues and approximately $300-800 in tournament team fees; uniforms, equipment, and apparel are not included. Please note that all 9U and 10U goalies receive a 50% reduction in Jr. Amerks seasonal tuition.
9U AA2 [2017]
The 9U AA2 team marks an important transition year as players move from 8U half-ice Mite hockey to full-ice play. This season is centered on learning, growth, and development, with a strong emphasis on fundamentals, confidence, and understanding the full-ice game. Players can expect a significant learning curve and meaningful progress throughout the season as they adjust to new spacing, positioning, and game flow.
The team will be led by Dan James, who brings extensive playing and coaching experience to this critical development stage. Dan grew up playing youth hockey in Cortland, winning multiple state championships, and went on to compete at the high school level, including serving as a varsity team captain. He has more than 20 years of coaching experience across youth and high school sports and has spent the past several seasons coaching youth hockey within the organization.
Coach James emphasizes fundamentals, effort, and creating a positive environment where players can learn and enjoy the game. His experience makes him well suited to guide players through the transition to full-ice hockey while laying a strong foundation for future seasons.
Season Overview:
- Full Season with 40+ Games including tournaments
- Member of Western New York Amateur Hockey League
- Two team practices per week (Full and Shared)
- Dedicated skills and skating sessions bi-monthly
- Goaltender clinics by New Edge School of Goaltending throughout the season
- Off-ice training with Next Level Strength and Conditioning
- Team building and community service events
- Estimated costs of $1,500-2,000 in annual dues and approximately $300-800 in tournament team fees; uniforms, equipment, and apparel are not included. Please note that all 9U and 10U goalies receive a 50% reduction in Jr. Amerks seasonal tuition.
10U AA1 [2016]
The 10U AA1 team will be led by Mike Ferreri and Matt Tweedle, both returning to the organization with extensive experience and strong familiarity with player development at this age level. The team is built around a positive, structured environment that emphasizes skill development, teamwork, and accountability.
Coach Ferreri brings more than 20 years of coaching experience, including 18 seasons as head coach of the Victor High School varsity hockey program, where he has led multiple Section V championship teams and a New York State title. Coach Tweedle has coached youth hockey for the past five years and is known for fostering a strong team culture centered on respect, resilience, and being a great teammate.
Together, the coaching staff provides a stable and development-focused foundation for players competing at the 10U AA1 level.
Season Overview:
- Full Season with 40+ Games including tournaments
- Member of Western New York Amateur Hockey League
- Two team practices per week (Full and Shared)
- Dedicated skills and skating sessions bi-monthly
- Goaltender clinics by New Edge School of Goaltending throughout the season
- Off-ice training with Next Level Strength and Conditioning
- Team building and community service events
- Estimated costs of $1,700-2,200 in annual dues and approximately $300-800 in tournament team fees; uniforms, equipment, and apparel are not included. Please note that all 9U and 10U goalies receive a 50% reduction in Jr. Amerks seasonal tuition.
10U AA2 [2016]
The 10U AA2 team is designed as a development-focused environment where players continue building foundational skills while learning to compete, grow, and develop a lifelong love for the game of hockey. The emphasis at this level is on fundamentals, teamwork, and confidence, creating a positive experience that supports long-term player growth.
The team will be led by Nick Hart, who returns for next season with a strong background in both hockey and leadership. A Brockport, New York native, Nick played his youth and high school hockey locally before continuing at Monroe Community College and St. John Fisher College. Following his playing career, he served five years in the U.S. Marine Corps, experience that continues to influence his structured, team-first coaching approach.
Nick has several seasons of coaching experience at the Pony and Mite levels and is actively involved in the hockey community. His focus on fundamentals, accountability, and enjoyment of the game makes the 10U AA2 team a strong developmental option for young players continuing their hockey journey.
Season Overview:
- Full Season with 40+ Games including tournaments
- Member of Western New York Amateur Hockey League
- Two team practices per week (Full and Shared)
- Dedicated skills and skating sessions bi-monthly
- Goaltender clinics by New Edge School of Goaltending throughout the season
- Off-ice training with Next Level Strength and Conditioning
- Team building and community service events
- Estimated costs of $1,700-2,200 in annual dues and approximately $300-800 in tournament team fees; uniforms, equipment, and apparel are not included. Please note that all 9U and 10U goalies receive a 50% reduction in Jr. Amerks seasonal tuition.
11U AA1 [2015]
The 11U AA1 team enters next season with a continued focus on player development, skill progression, and building strong hockey habits in a positive, structured environment. At this stage, the program emphasizes fundamentals, confidence with the puck, teamwork, and learning how to compete the right way.
Justin McCarthy will step into the head coaching role next season after spending several years coaching within the organization. Justin’s familiarity with the program and age-group development provides continuity for players as they continue progressing through the AA pathway.
The organization would like to thank Jeff Mordaci for his time and dedication, as he has stepped down from the role. His contributions to the team and players are appreciated.
With experienced leadership and a development-first approach, the 11U AA1 team offers a strong environment for players continuing to grow their skills, understanding of the game, and love for hockey.
Season Overview:
- Full Season with 40+ Games including tournaments
- Member of Western New York Amateur Hockey League
- Two team practices per week (Full and Shared)
- Dedicated skills and skating sessions bi-monthly
- Goaltender clinics by New Edge School of Goaltending throughout the season
- Off-ice training with Next Level Strength and Conditioning
- Team building and community service events
- Estimated costs of $1,800-2,300 in annual dues and approximately $300-800 in tournament team fees; uniforms, equipment, and apparel are not included.
11U AA2 [2015]
The 11U AA2 team is designed to support continued player development as athletes build confidence, refine fundamentals, and grow their understanding of the game within a structured team environment. The program emphasizes skill progression, teamwork, and enjoyment of the game while helping players prepare for the next stages of travel hockey.
Returning as head coach is Pat Capella, who brings a strong playing background and familiarity with player development at this age level. A Syracuse native, Pat played youth hockey with the Syracuse Stars before attending The Frederick Gunn School in Washington, Connecticut. He later played college hockey at SUNY Fredonia, where his team won the SUNYAC Championship during his freshman season.
Pat now lives in Fairport with his two children and brings a steady, team-first approach behind the bench. With returning leadership and a development-focused structure, the 11U AA2 team provides a strong environment for players continuing their growth within the program.
Season Overview:
- Full Season with 40+ Games including tournaments
- Member of Western New York Amateur Hockey League
- Two team practices per week (Full and Shared)
- Dedicated skills and skating sessions bi-monthly
- Goaltender clinics by New Edge School of Goaltending throughout the season
- Off-ice training with Next Level Strength and Conditioning
- Team building and community service events
- Estimated costs of $1,800-2,300 in annual dues and approximately $300-800 in tournament team fees; uniforms, equipment, and apparel are not included.
12U AA1 [2014]
The 12U AA1 (2014) team will continue to focus on player development, skill progression, and building strong team habits within a positive and competitive environment. Designed to support athletes as they refine fundamentals and grow their confidence, the program emphasizes long-term development while introducing a higher level of competition.
Mark Pelligra will serve as head coach, moving up to lead the AA1 team for the upcoming season and replacing Kevin Fitzgerald. A Webster, New York native, Mark brings an extensive hockey background, having played at SUNY Brockport. He has spent several years coaching youth hockey and is known for his steady, fundamentals-driven approach and commitment to player growth.
With experienced leadership behind the bench and a development-first philosophy, the 12U AA1 team provides a strong environment for players ready to take the next step in their development within the Jr. Amerks program.
Season Overview:
- Full Season with 40+ Games including tournaments
- Member of Western New York Amateur Hockey League
- Two team practices per week (Full and Shared)
- Dedicated skills and skating sessions bi-monthly
- Goaltender clinics by New Edge School of Goaltending throughout the season
- Off-ice training with Next Level Strength and Conditioning
- Team building and community service events
- Estimated costs of $1,800-2,300 in annual dues and approximately $300-800 in tournament team fees; uniforms, equipment, and apparel are not included.
12U AA2 [2014]
The 12U AA2 (2014) team will continue to focus on player development, skill progression, and building strong team habits within a positive and competitive environment. Designed to support athletes as they refine their fundamentals and grow their confidence, the program emphasizes long-term development and a strong enjoyment of the game.
The team will be led by experienced Jr. Amerks coaching staff who are committed to teaching the fundamentals of the game while helping players build confidence and hockey IQ. Practices and games will focus on skill development, teamwork, and creating an environment where players can continue to grow both individually and as a team.
With a development-first philosophy and strong organizational support, the 12U AA2 team provides an excellent opportunity for players to continue progressing within the Jr. Amerks program.
Season Overview:
- Full Season with 40+ Games including tournaments
- Member of Western New York Amateur Hockey League
- Two team practices per week (Full and Shared)
- Dedicated skills and skating sessions bi-monthly
- Goaltender clinics by New Edge School of Goaltending throughout the season
- Off-ice training with Next Level Strength and Conditioning
- Team building and community service events
- Estimated costs of $1,800-2,300 in annual dues and approximately $300-800 in tournament team fees; uniforms, equipment, and apparel are not included.
13U AA1 [2013]
The 13U AA1 team continues to build on a strong foundation of development, competitiveness, and team culture as players progress into a more structured level of travel hockey. The program emphasizes skill refinement, hockey awareness, and accountability while maintaining a positive, team-first environment.
Returning as head coach for next season is Mike Yaskulski, who enters his second year leading the group after completing his first season behind the bench with the organization. Mike brings both extensive playing experience and a steady coaching progression that supports player development at this important stage.
Mike grew up playing for the Batavia Ramparts, where he won state championships and competed at the national level. He later played bantam hockey in Rochester and went on to compete at the high school level at Notre Dame of Batavia. His playing career continued at Monroe Community College before finishing with club hockey at Edinboro University.
Mike began his coaching career in 2017 and has progressed through multiple levels of youth hockey, including roles with Brockport, Monroe County, ROCO, and the Jr. Amerks. His familiarity with the program and age group provides continuity and consistency for the team.
Off the ice, Mike is the plant manager for Tycom Recycling, Inc., a family-owned industrial plastics recycling company founded in 1995. His leadership approach emphasizes preparation, work ethic, and responsibility—both on and off the ice.
Season Overview:
- Full Season with 40+ Games including tournaments
- Member of Western New York Amateur Hockey League
- Two team practices per week (Full and Shared)
- Dedicated skills and skating sessions bi-monthly
- Goaltender clinics by New Edge School of Goaltending throughout the season
- Off-ice training with Next Level Strength and Conditioning
- Team building and community service events
- Estimated costs of $1,800-2,300 in annual dues and approximately $300-800 in tournament team fees; uniforms, equipment, and apparel are not included.
13U AA2 [2013]
The Jr. Amerks 13U AA2 team is designed to support continued player development at the AA level while preparing athletes for the increasing pace, physicality, and structure of full-ice hockey. The program emphasizes skill refinement, confidence, and the development of strong habits within a competitive and supportive team environment.
The team will be led by KC Burritt, who brings several years of age-group coaching experience within the Jr. Amerks organization and a development-first approach to the role. KC emphasizes player growth, clear communication, and long-term progression, creating a balanced team environment where athletes are supported while being challenged to improve.
The 13U AA2 program serves as an important step in the Jr. Amerks development pathway, providing players with consistent coaching, structured competition, and the foundation needed for continued advancement within the organization.
Season Overview:
- Full Season with 40+ Games including tournaments
- Member of Western New York Amateur Hockey League
- Two team practices per week (Full and Shared)
- Dedicated skills and skating sessions bi-monthly
- Goaltender clinics by New Edge School of Goaltending throughout the season
- Off-ice training with Next Level Strength and Conditioning
- Team building and community service events
- Estimated costs of $1,800-2,300 in annual dues and approximately $300-800 in tournament team fees; uniforms, equipment, and apparel are not included.
13U AA3 [2013]
The 13U AA3 team is designed to support continued player development as athletes adjust to the increasing pace, structure, and physical demands of full-ice hockey. The program emphasizes skill refinement, confidence, and building strong habits within a positive and supportive team environment.
The team will be led by Mike Carbone, who returns to the organization with extensive experience and a strong commitment to player development. Now in his eighth year with the Jr. Amerks, Mike has coached multiple age groups within the program and most recently served as head coach of the 12U Mixed team. His familiarity with the organization and development pathway provides consistency and stability for players at this stage.
A multi-sport athlete, Mike played youth hockey through his freshman year of high school before competing in Division I football at the University at Albany. His coaching philosophy centers on discipline, teamwork, and skill development, helping players grow both on and off the ice.
Mike lives in Pittsford with his wife and three children and is the owner of The Carbone Agency, an insurance firm based in Webster, New York. With experienced leadership and a clear development focus, the 13U AA3 team provides an important step in the organization’s player development pathway.
Season Overview:
- Full Season with 40+ Games including tournaments
- Member of Western New York Amateur Hockey League
- Two team practices per week (Full and Shared)
- Dedicated skills and skating sessions bi-monthly
- Goaltender clinics by New Edge School of Goaltending throughout the season
- Off-ice training with Next Level Strength and Conditioning
- Team building and community service events
- Estimated costs of $1,800-2,300 in annual dues and approximately $300-800 in tournament team fees; uniforms, equipment, and apparel are not included.
14U AA1 [2012]
The 14U AA1 team enters next season with experienced leadership and a strong focus on development, competitiveness, and team culture. Built for players ready to take the next step within the AA pathway, the program emphasizes skill refinement, accountability, and learning how to compete consistently in structured game situations.
The team will be led by Co-Head Coaches Mike Ferreri and KC Burritt, providing continuity, stability, and consistent on-ice leadership throughout the season. This shared coaching structure also ensures consistent coverage and support given Coach Ferreri’s ongoing commitments with Victor High School and other teams within the organization.
The 14U AA1 program will follow a high school–friendly schedule, recognizing that some players may also be competing at the junior varsity or varsity level. The schedule is structured to support multi-level participation while maintaining a strong competitive environment and consistent development focus.
Coach Ferreri brings more than 20 years of coaching experience, including long-standing leadership of the Victor High School varsity program, while Coach Burritt contributes several years of age-group experience within the organization and a development-first coaching approach. Together, they provide a balanced leadership model focused on player growth, communication, and long-term progression.
With experienced co-head coaches and a schedule designed to support high school participation, the 14U AA1 team offers a strong environment for players seeking competitive hockey alongside academic and school-based opportunities.
Season Overview:
- Full Season with 40+ Games including tournaments
- Member of Western New York Amateur Hockey League
- 2-3 team practices per week (Full and Shared)
- Dedicated skills and skating sessions bi-monthly
- Goaltender clinics by New Edge School of Goaltending throughout the season
- Off-ice training with Next Level Strength and Conditioning
- Team building and community service events
- Estimated costs of $1,800-2,300 in annual dues and approximately $300-800 in tournament team fees; uniforms, equipment, and apparel are not included.
Head coach TBD
14U AA2 or Mixed Age Team [2012]
The organization may field a second 2012 AA team or a 12U mixed-age team consisting of 2012 and 2013 birth-year players. The final structure will be determined based on player evaluations and coaching availability, with additional clarity expected as the organization moves closer to March tryouts.
Season Overview:
- Full Season with 40+ Games including tournaments
- Member of Western New York Amateur Hockey League
- 2-3 team practices per week (Full and Shared)
- Dedicated skills and skating sessions bi-monthly
- Goaltender-specific training throughout the season with New Edge School of Goaltending
- Off-ice training with Next Level Strength and Conditioning
- Team building and community service events
- Estimated costs of $1,800-2,300 in annual dues and approximately $300-800 in tournament team fees; uniforms, equipment, and apparel are not included.
15U AA1 [2011]
The 15U AA1 team enters next season with a new coaching structure while maintaining a strong commitment to development, competitiveness, and team culture. As players continue progressing through the AA pathway, the program remains focused on skill refinement, accountability, and preparing athletes for the increasing pace and structure of upper-level hockey.
After many years of dedicated service to the organization, Jon Obstarczyk has stepped down from his coaching role. His long-term contributions helped shape the program and positively impact countless players, and the organization is grateful for his leadership and commitment.
Stepping into leadership roles are Co-Head Coaches Joel Johnson and Dan Reed, who bring complementary playing and coaching backgrounds to the team.
Coach Reed grew up playing hockey locally with Rochester Youth Hockey, Monroe County Youth Hockey, and Rush-Henrietta High School before continuing his playing career at SUNY Geneseo. He has been coaching youth hockey since 2017, serving as an assistant coach across multiple AA age groups with the Rochester Aces and most recently working with the Jr. Amerks AA1 program. His coaching approach emphasizes fundamentals, structure, and long-term player development.
Coach Johnson, a Buffalo native, grew up playing AAA hockey and went on to compete at the Junior B level with the Wheatfield Blades before finishing his playing career in club hockey at SUNY Fredonia. He has coached youth hockey since the Mite level and brings a strong understanding of player development and competitive pathways.
Together, the co-head coaches provide a collaborative, development-focused leadership model built on communication, consistency, and team-first values. With experienced guidance and a clear structure in place, the 15U AA1 team is positioned for a productive and successful season.
Season Overview:
- 40+ game AA schedule
- 2-4 tournaments
- High school–friendly split-season model
- Member of Western New York Amateur Hockey League
- 2-3 team practices per week (Full and Shared)
- Dedicated skills and skating sessions bi-monthly
- Goaltender-specific training throughout the season with New Edge School of Goaltending
- Off-ice training with Next Level Strength and Conditioning
- Team building and community service events
- Estimated costs of $1,500-2,000 in annual dues and approximately $300-800 in tournament team fees; uniforms, equipment, and apparel are not included.
15U AA2 [2011]
The 15U AA2 team will continue to focus on development, competitiveness, and team culture while supporting players navigating the transition into high school hockey. The program is structured to provide consistent skill development and meaningful competition within a positive, team-first environment.
Returning as head coach next season is Greg Wicker, who brings deep roots within the organization and extensive experience both as a player and coach. A Fairport native, Greg has been connected to the program since its origins as Perinton Youth Hockey. He played AA hockey with the Perinton Blades, winning State and Northeast Championships at the Bantam level, before continuing on to Fairport High School and later Broome County Community College.
Greg has coached multiple levels within the organization, beginning with the Beginners program and later serving as an assistant coach with the House Red 8U and 10U teams. His familiarity with the program and age-appropriate development makes him well suited to guide players at the 15U level.
The 15U AA2 team will operate under a high school–friendly split-season schedule, recognizing that some players may also participate in junior varsity or varsity hockey. This structure allows players to balance school hockey commitments while continuing their development in a competitive AA environment.
Off the ice, Greg is the Director of Retail Sales for Menasha Packaging and lives in Fairport with his wife, Laurie, and their children. With returning leadership and a thoughtful schedule structure, the 15U AA2 team is positioned for a productive and development-focused season.
Season Overview:
- 40+ game AA schedule
- 2-4 tournaments
- High school–friendly split-season model
- Member of Western New York Amateur Hockey League
- 2-3 team practices per week (Full and Shared)
- Dedicated skills and skating sessions bi-monthly
- Goaltender-specific training throughout the season with New Edge School of Goaltending
- Off-ice training with Next Level Strength and Conditioning
- Team building and community service events
- Estimated costs of $1,500-2,000 in annual dues and approximately $300-800 in tournament team fees; uniforms, equipment, and apparel are not included.
15U AA3 [2011]
The 15U AA3 team will continue to emphasize development, competitiveness, and a strong team culture while supporting players as they transition into high school hockey. The program is structured to deliver consistent skill progression and meaningful competition within a positive, team-first environment.
Returning as Head Coach next season is Tim Auerhahn, who brings a steady presence and a clear commitment to player development. Coach Auerhahn understands the importance of balancing individual growth with team success and works to create an environment built on accountability, preparation, and consistent effort.
The 15U AA3 team will operate under a high school–friendly split-season schedule, recognizing that some players may also participate in junior varsity or varsity hockey. This approach allows athletes to balance their school hockey commitments while continuing to develop in a competitive AA setting.
With experienced leadership and a structure designed to support both development and competition, the 15U AA3 team is positioned for a productive and rewarding season.
Season Overview:
- 40+ game AA schedule
- 2-4 tournaments
- High school–friendly split-season model
- Member of Western New York Amateur Hockey League
- 2-3 team practices per week (Full and Shared)
- Dedicated skills and skating sessions bi-monthly
- Goaltender-specific training throughout the season with New Edge School of Goaltending
- Off-ice training with Next Level Strength and Conditioning
- Team building and community service events
- Estimated costs of $1,500-2,000 in annual dues and approximately $300-800 in tournament team fees; uniforms, equipment, and apparel are not included.
16U AA1 [2010]
The team will continue to benefit from consistent leadership next season, with Austin Szczesniak remaining actively involved behind the bench while also taking on the role of head coach for our 11U AAA team. Austin currently serves as head coach of the 15U AA1 team and will return next season as head coach of the 16U AA1 team, providing continuity and a clear development pathway within the program.
Working closely with Austin will be Steve Bottoni, a long-time coach with the 2010 birth-year group who brings extensive experience and familiarity with the players. This collaborative coaching structure ensures consistent on-ice leadership, clear communication, and stability throughout the season.
Austin brings a strong background in player development, emphasizing hockey IQ, skill progression, and mentoring players on and off the ice. A Henrietta, New York native, he played locally before advancing to junior hockey in the USPHL and later graduating from the University at Buffalo. He currently works in corporate finance.
Coach Bottoni has worked with the 2010 group for the past five seasons and brings decades of coaching experience, including more than 20 years with the McQuaid Jesuit High School hockey program. His background at the AAA, travel, and high school levels provides valuable perspective and consistency for the team.
Together, the coaching staff offers a balanced approach focused on development, accountability, and long-term progression, ensuring a positive and structured environment for players next season.
Season Overview:
- 40+ game high-end AA schedule
- Member of Western New York Amateur Hockey League
- Non-Tournament Bound
- 3-4 Tournaments
- High school–friendly split-season model
- Preseason training camp in August at Rochester Ice Center
- 2-3 team practices per week
- Dedicated skills and skating sessions bi-monthly
- Goaltender-specific training throughout the season with New Edge School of Goaltending
- Off-ice training with Next Level Strength and Conditioning
- Team-building and community service initiatives
- Estimated costs of $2,000 in annual dues and approximately $500 in tournament team fees; uniforms, equipment, and apparel are not included.
16U AA2 [2010]
The Jr. Amerks 16U AA2 team is designed to support player development while preparing athletes for the demands of the upcoming high school hockey season. The program emphasizes skill refinement, confidence, and the development of strong habits within a structured and supportive team environment.
The team will be led by Jeff Renelt, who steps into the Head Coach role after eight seasons of coaching within the organization. Jeff holds a USA Hockey Level 5 Master Coach Certification and is also a USA Hockey Bronze Goalie Coach, reflecting a strong commitment to teaching and long-term player development. His coaching approach centers on fundamentals, accountability, and continued progression at this critical stage.
The 16U AA2 program serves as an important step in the Jr. Amerks pathway, providing players with the structure, coaching support, and competitive environment needed to prepare for high school hockey and continued advancement within the organization.
Season Overview:
- 40+ game AA schedule
- Member of Western New York Amateur Hockey League
- 3-4 Tournaments
- High school–friendly split-season model
- 2-3 team practices per week
- Dedicated skills and skating sessions bi-monthly
- Goaltender-specific training throughout the season with New Edge School of Goaltending
- Off-ice training with Next Level Strength and Conditioning
- Team-building and community service initiatives
- Estimated costs of $2,000 in annual dues and approximately $500 in tournament team fees; uniforms, equipment, and apparel are not included.
Head Coach TBD
16U AA3 [2010]
The Jr. Amerks 2010 AA3 team is intended to provide an additional development opportunity within the organization for players seeking a structured, competitive environment at the AA level. The focus of this team is on continued skill development, strong habits, and team play, while maintaining appropriate competitive balance within the 2010 age group.
The coaching staff for the 2010 AA3 team will be finalized closer to the tryout period. Several experienced parent coaches have expressed interest and are prepared to support the team. Final coaching assignments will be determined following tryouts, once player numbers and roster composition are better understood.
The Jr. Amerks will happily field a 2010 AA3 team provided there is sufficient depth of qualified players to form a competitive roster. This approach ensures that any team formed is well-supported, appropriately staffed, and positioned to deliver a positive and competitive experience. Additional details regarding team structure and staffing will be shared following the April tryout window.
Season Overview:
- 40+ game AA schedule
- Member of Western New York Amateur Hockey League
- 3-4 Tournaments
- High school–friendly split-season model
- 2-3 team practices per week
- Dedicated skills and skating sessions bi-monthly
- Goaltender-specific training throughout the season with New Edge School of Goaltending
- Off-ice training with Next Level Strength and Conditioning
- Team-building and community service initiatives
- Estimated costs of $2,000 in annual dues and approximately $500 in tournament team fees; uniforms, equipment, and apparel are not included.
18U AA1 [2008-2009]
The 18U AA1 team is designed to support players as they balance competitive travel hockey with their high school commitments. Operating under a high school–friendly split-season schedule, the program allows athletes to continue developing while preparing for and competing in their high school seasons.
Returning as head coach is Jason Simmons, who brings long-standing experience with the 2009 age group and deep familiarity with the organization. Jason previously spent three seasons as an assistant coach with the 2009 AAA team and has coached at multiple levels of youth hockey for more than two decades.
A Buffalo native, Jason grew up playing youth hockey in the Buffalo area and has remained heavily involved in player development throughout his coaching career. In addition to his work with the Jr. Amerks, he has served as an assistant coach with the Bishop Kearney Selects and as an assistant coach at the junior varsity high school level.
Coach Simmons emphasizes structure, accountability, and steady development, creating an environment that supports both individual growth and team success. With experienced leadership and a schedule designed to complement high school hockey, the 18U AA1 team offers a strong setting for players finishing their youth hockey careers.
Season Overview:
- 40+ game AA schedule
- Member of Western New York Amateur Hockey League
- 3-4 Tournaments
- High school–friendly split-season model
- 2-3 team practices per week
- Dedicated skills and skating sessions bi-monthly
- Goaltender-specific training throughout the season with New Edge School of Goaltending
- Off-ice training with Next Level Strength and Conditioning
- Team-building and community service initiatives
- Estimated costs of $1,500 in annual dues and approximately $500 in tournament team fees; uniforms, equipment, and apparel are not included.
18U AA2 [2008-2009]
The 18U AA2 team is structured to support continued player development while providing a positive, organized environment for athletes nearing the end of their youth hockey careers. The program emphasizes accountability, teamwork, and steady progression, helping players refine their skills and prepare for the next stage of their hockey journey.
Returning as head coach is Pat Harrington, who brings extensive experience within the organization and a strong background in player development. Pat previously spent four seasons as an assistant and goaltending coach, playing an integral role in the Jr. Amerks’ goalie and overall player development programs. He has more than eight years of hockey coaching experience in the Rochester area and is a USA Hockey Level 4 certified coach.
A Rochester native, Pat grew up playing in the Rochester Youth Hockey program before competing for four years with the Rush-Henrietta Varsity hockey team. His coaching philosophy centers on teamwork, accountability, and self-motivation, both on and off the ice.
Off the ice, Pat lives in West Henrietta with his wife, Jessica, and their two sons, and works as a Field Support Manager at Paychex. With returning leadership and a development-focused approach, the 18U AA2 team provides a strong setting for players to continue growing and competing at the AA level.
Season Overview:
- 40+ game AA schedule
- Member of Western New York Amateur Hockey League
- 3-4 Tournaments
- High school–friendly split-season model
- 2-3 team practices per week
- Dedicated skills and skating sessions bi-monthly
- Goaltender-specific training throughout the season with New Edge School of Goaltending
- Off-ice training with Next Level Strength and Conditioning
- Team-building and community service initiatives
- Estimated costs of $1,500 in annual dues and approximately $500 in tournament team fees; uniforms, equipment, and apparel are not included.
18U AA3 [2008-2009]
The 18U AA3 team is designed specifically for players preparing for their upcoming varsity high school seasons. The focus is on sharpening game habits, improving pace and physical readiness, and reinforcing the systems and accountability expected at the varsity level.
This program provides a structured, competitive environment where athletes can continue refining their skills while competing against strong AA opponents. Emphasis will be placed on situational play, special teams concepts, hockey sense, and consistency — all critical components for players looking to make an impact during their high school season.
At this time, a head coach has not yet been finalized. Based on projected registration numbers, we anticipate fielding an 18U AA3 team and will announce coaching leadership once confirmed. The selected coach will align with the program’s objective of preparing players to step confidently into varsity roles.
With a high school–aligned structure and a clear development focus, the 18U AA3 team offers a purposeful and competitive pathway for players entering their varsity season.
Season Overview:
- 40+ game AA schedule
- Member of Western New York Amateur Hockey League
- 3-4 Tournaments
- High school–friendly split-season model
- 2-3 team practices per week
- Dedicated skills and skating sessions bi-monthly
- Goaltender-specific training throughout the season with New Edge School of Goaltending
- Off-ice training with Next Level Strength and Conditioning
- Team-building and community service initiatives
- Estimated costs of $1,500 in annual dues and approximately $500 in tournament team fees; uniforms, equipment, and apparel are not included.