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U18 A Championships
April 18 – 20, 2025
Hosted by the New Hamburg Minor Hockey Association
Welcome to New Hamburg: Where Hockey is Life!
Tucked in the heart of Ontario, New Hamburg isn’t just a town—it’s hockey heaven. Here, the rink is the heartbeat of the community, and the love for the game runs deep. For generations, this town has cheered on everyone from tiny skaters taking their first strides to local legends making waves on the national and international stage. In New Hamburg, hockey isn’t just a sport; it’s a way of life that brings everyone together.
Hockey Greatness Runs Deep in New Hamburg
New Hamburg’s hockey story is one for the ages. With a legacy packed full of milestones, this town lives and breathes the game. From the New Hamburg Firebirds celebrating their 70th anniversary in 2023 to hometown legend Howie Meeker earning a spot in the Hockey Hall of Fame, New Hamburg’s contributions to the sport are nothing short of legendary.
And that’s just the start:
- NHL stars and regional heroes like Walter Kalbfleisch, Herbert 'Hap' Hamel, and John Tanner hail from here.
- Brett Leonhardt brought the Stanley Cup home after coaching the Washington Capitals to victory—talk about hometown pride!
- Rising talents like Rowan Henderson, Beau Akey, and Tanner Pearson are keeping New Hamburg’s hockey flame burning bright.
Every chapter of this history shows just how deeply New Hamburg and hockey are intertwined. It’s not just a game here; it’s part of who we are.
A Championship Venue That’s Got It All
New Hamburg is the ultimate spot for hosting unforgettable hockey championships. With state-of-the-art facilities, die-hard fans, and a warm, welcoming vibe, it’s the perfect place to bring the action to life.
Located in Wilmot Township, New Hamburg has the best of both worlds: small-town charm and easy access to big-city perks. Close to major routes and just a short drive from Kitchener, Waterloo, and Stratford, visitors can enjoy plenty of accommodation, dining, and entertainment options. Plus, hosting events here fuels our local economy, supporting long-standing businesses like restaurants and shops that have been community staples for years.
From the rink to the town, New Hamburg has everything you need for a championship experience to remember!
New Hamburg has more than just hockey going for it! Dive into the rich cultural heritage of Wilmot Township, starting with the iconic Castle Kilbride. This stunning Victorian mansion, built in 1877, is a true time capsule. Its gorgeous Italianate architecture and intricate interior designs offer a fascinating peek into the past, making it a must-see for history buffs and curious visitors alike.
Whether you’re here to cheer on the next hockey legends or explore the town’s cultural treasures, New Hamburg welcomes you with open arms. It’s a place where tradition runs deep, and hockey isn’t just a sport—it’s the heartbeat of a vibrant, thriving community. Come for the game, stay for the charm, and be part of what makes New Hamburg unforgettable!
With Head Coach Zach Mark at the helm and his top-notch staff backing him up, the Jr. Firebirds have been on fire, bringing serious talent and grit to the ice over the past two seasons. Packed with a solid squad of returning players and some thrilling new faces, this team is ready to take the 2024/25 season by storm. Get ready for another year of high-energy action and Firebird pride—on and off the ice!
The Jr. Firebirds soared to the top during the 2023/24 season, achieving an impressive record of 51-7-11 and earning the title of #1 ranked team in Ontario (source: MyHockeyRankings.com).
Their hard work and skill were evident in their list of achievements:
- Glancaster Tournament Champions
- Riverside Tournament Champions
- Regional Silver Stick Champions
- 3 consecutive OMHA Championship Tournament Berths for the ’07-born players
The previous season set the foundation for their success, with a record of 46-14-7 and several notable accomplishments, including:
- St. Thomas Tournament Champions
- Regional Silver Stick Champions
- International Silver Stick Semi-Finalists
- OMHA Championship Tournament Semi-Finalists
- Ranked 6th in Ontario (source: MyHockeyRankings.com)
The Jr. Firebirds are more than just a hockey team—they’re a symbol of grit, teamwork, and determination. With 3 tournament wins, a league championship, and three straight OMHA Championship berths, their record speaks volumes about the hard work and passion of both players and coaches.
As true ambassadors of the sport, the Jr. Firebirds inspire their community and fellow athletes, showing what it means to embrace the spirit of hockey. With a strong foundation and their sights set high, this team is ready to face the challenges of the upcoming season and keep the momentum going. Go Firebirds!
PROUD PARTNERS
