The New Hampshire Junior Monarchs were one of the most storied and respected Junior Hockey organizations in the US having won the EJHL championship more than any other organization. 7 times in fact… 2002, 2004, 2006-07, and three times in a row, 2010-2012. When they made the move over to the EHL they continued their success winning the EHL championship in 2016.
A series of tragedies and poor decisions led to a significant decline in the on ice performance of the organization. 2 disastrous seasons in the Tier 1 Elite league for their U16 & U18 teams in the late 2010’s and a final season in the USPHL Premier where their Premier team finished with 3 wins and 39 losses, marked the end of the New Hampshire Junior Monarchs.
In the winter of 2023, the Tri Town Arena and its hockey offerings were purchased by a local (NH) group of business owners, and the the Monarchs changed their colors and their name to the New Hampshire Mountain Kings. Click on link for story- Tri Town Ice Arena Home of the NH Mountain Kings : Powered by GOALLINE
In addition to the new ownership, “there is a planned two-million-dollar expansion, which includes a million dollars in energy improvements, an upgrade in dasher boards and plexi glass, and a first-class locker room and athletic training facility for the NAHL team. The Mountain Kings also added a NA3HL team to play in the East Division as well.“- Click here for story- NA Now: New Hampshire Mountain Kings | North American Hockey League | NAHL
Why now only a year and a half later am I receiving email solicitations to donate to their NA3HL team?
Their NA3HL team currently sits in 4th place with a record of 13-13. Their roster appears healthy and full. Take a look here- Team Stats | North American Tier III Hockey League | NA3HL
Their NAHL team is also sitting at 15-15 (in 6th place in the East Division)- NAHL Standings | North American Hockey League | NAHL
Why would a pay to play Junior Hockey team be asking for donations in December?
According to the fundraising page…
“How Are Donations Used?
Each donation, regardless of size, is crucial to creating the best experience and environment for our academy players. Your support will go towards assisting in paying for team travel, hotels, busses, meals, equipment and other miscellaneous costs included in running the NA3 team!” https://raise.snap.app/donate/na3-2024/15631009?share_type=clipboard
Many charities and organizations at this time of the year are accepting donations. Toy Drives, Food Drives, Winter coats and clothing, and many other charitable events exist around the Holidays. These are great causes. We all advise our kids and families to do more and contribute to those less fortunate during this wonderful time of the year.
Donating to a Pay to Play Junior Hockey team that recently invested millions of dollars to purchase an NAHL Junior Hockey franchise and do some upgrades and paint jobs to their facility might not rank as high on the list of charitable ventures.
By Andrew Trimble
