The Winter League season is wrapping up, and you know what that means—it’s Playoff time! The battle for the AHA cup and the legendary winner’s hat will take place April 6-19, so get ready for some intense, edge-of-your-seat hockey. But the action doesn’t stop there! This month’s newsletter is packed with exciting updates, including an inspiring Player Spotlight on Jim Hanggi, details on AHA Summer League, and a heads-up for those looking to lace ‘em up in Beginner School. Whether you're chasing playoff glory or gearing up for summer skates, there's plenty to look forward to. Let’s dive in!
AHA Player Spotlight
Name: Jim Hanggi
Hometown: Bloomington, MN
# / Position: #5
Team / Tier: Moose (C1) & Boreals (C2)
I grew up playing sports, with baseball being my favorite through high school. Hockey was always around me—my buddies played, and I spent countless hours in the driveway, firing tennis balls and pretending I was on the ice. But I never actually played organized hockey.
Fast forward 15 to 20 years, and that itch to get into the game never faded. One day, I stumbled across the AHA website and decided to take the leap. In 2016, I joined Beginner School, and just like that, the Moose were born. Over the past nine years, our team has grown, evolved, and remained a tight-knit group. While some players have come and gone, our core bond has only strengthened. From our early days in Beginner School to battling it out in C1, we’ve built lasting friendships—celebrating weddings, traveling together, and, of course, enjoying plenty of post-game parking lot beers. On the ice, we’ve had our share of success, highlighted by winning the 2021 C2 Championship and making several playoff runs.
Beyond the Moose, I also play for the Boreals. I originally strapped on the pads as their goalie, but let’s just say, goaltending wasn’t my calling. Now, I skate out, and it’s been a great experience playing the game from a different perspective.
Hockey has become a big part of my life in more ways than one. I’ve worked as a scorekeeper and am now in my third year as an AHA official. Officiating can be a tough, often thankless job, but there’s something about being out on the ice that keeps me coming back. It’s humbling, challenging, and rewarding all at once.
From driveway shootouts to officiating games, my hockey journey has been anything but traditional—but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Evals, Summer League, and Beginner School Oh My
New to the league? Know someone itching to hit the ice? AHA Evaluation Sessions are coming up this spring! The AHA is all about keeping competition fair, safe, and fun, making sure every game is a battle (in the best way possible). Unlike other leagues, we prioritize parity so that every shift is exciting and every team has a shot.
As winter league winds down, don’t hang up your skates just yet—because AHA Summer League is right around the corner! If you haven’t experienced it yet, you’re missing out. It’s the perfect way to keep your skills sharp, connect with new players, and maybe even find your next great teammate.
And for those brand new to the game, the Spring Beginner School is officially open for registration! Spots are filling fast, so if you—or someone you know—wants to learn the most amazing sport on the planet, now’s the time to jump in. Please send them our way, and let’s grow the game together!
Hockey doesn’t take the summer off—are you in?