In 1996, USA Hockey launched a revolutionary new initiative called the National Team
Development Program, based in Ann Arbor, Mich. In its 13th season of play in 2009-10, the goal of this full-time development program is to prepare student-athletes under the age of 18 for participation on U.S. National Teams and success in their future hockey careers. Its efforts focus not only on high-caliber participation on the ice, but creating well-rounded individuals off the ice.
The program is composed of two squads - the U.S. National Under-18 and Under-17 Teams. The Under-17 Team competes in the United States Hockey League and also participates in three international events annually. The U.S. National Under-18 Team’s schedule includes games against NCAA Division I and III opponents, contests vs. USHL teams, as well as competition in three international tournaments.
The Ann Arbor Ice Cube, a first-class facility consisting of three ice sheets, locker rooms, offices, a training area and weight room is home to the NTDP. Unlike other competitive athletic teams, the success of the NTDP is not gauged on wins and losses. Instead, the focus is on the development of skills and acquiring experience against older competitors.
“The National Team Development Program provides a tremendous opportunity for the elite young players in our country,” said Ron DeGregorio, president of USA Hockey. “We’ve developed many programs over the years at USA Hockey and the NTDP is among our very best initiatives.”
What the program has meant
In evaluating how the NTDP has impacted hockey in the
United States, consider:
• The U.S. has won the gold medal at the IIHF World Men’s Under-18 Championship in 2002, 2005, 2006, 2009 and 2010, with each team comprised primarily of NTDP players.
• The U.S., with a team comprised largely of NTDP players, captured its first-ever gold medal at the IIHF World Junior Championship in 2004.
• In 2009-10, more than 45 NTDP alumni were playing in the National Hockey League.
