The Parking Lot Volume 13
Welcome to a Season of Milestones
Hockey friends, welcome to a very special edition of The Parking Lot! Not only are we celebrating the start of AHA’s 25th Winter Season, but this also marks the beginning of the second year of our newsletter.
What started as a simple way to share updates has grown into a place for stories, highlights, and a celebration of the community that makes AHA Hockey so unique. Over the past year, we’ve shared player spotlights, tournament recaps, behind-the-scenes looks, and plenty of laughs from, well… the parking lot. Now, we’re thrilled to keep the momentum going into year two.
Before we shift our focus to winter hockey, let’s take a moment to recognize the champions of the AHA Summer League:
Level 1 Champions: Team Malta
Level 2 Champions: Team Australia
Level 3 Champions: Team Romania
Level 4 Champions: Team Colombia
Level 5 Champions: Team South Korea
Level 6 Champions: Team Angola
Level 7 Champions: Team Indonesia
Congratulations to all our champions! From last-minute goals to unforgettable saves, you brought the heat to the off-season and earned your place in AHA history.
Now, as the puck drops on our 25th winter campaign, we look forward to another season of thrilling games, lasting friendships, and plenty of stories worth retelling. Here’s to the next chapter of AHA Hockey — both on the ice and right here in The Parking Lot. In order to celebrate the future, we honor the origin of AHA Hockey in remembrance of Swanny.
The Call That Started It All – by David Swenson Executive Director
In September of 2001, my involvement in AHA Hockey began with a simple phone call. My friend and teammate Steve Swanson, “Swanny,” reached out because he believed I could help get a new adult hockey program off the ground in the Twin Cities.
Of course, I said yes. Swanny was my goalie, I was one of his defensemen, and above all, we were friends. His determination and vision sparked the effort that became AHA Hockey — and without his drive, this league would not exist today. Thousands of players over the years have had the chance to enjoy this game and this community because Swanny believed in it from the very beginning.
In June of 2024, Swanny passed away. His life was full of strength and generosity, but like many, he also faced battles off the ice. The loss of Swanny is a reminder of how important it is that we keep showing up for each other — not just as teammates, but as friends.
As we celebrate this milestone season, let’s carry Swanny’s spirit forward by building what he started: a league rooted in friendship, support, and connection. If someone comes to mind who you haven’t spoken to in a while, reach out. If someone seems quiet, check in. A small act of friendship may mean more than you realize.
Together, we’ve built something special over the years. The best way to honor Swanny and to ensure another 25 seasons is to keep looking out for each other, both on and off the ice.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please dial 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for immediate support.
Opportunities on the Ice
With the 25th Winter Season upon us, the energy around AHA is higher than ever. Players are lacing up, teams are forming, and programs are already filling fast. If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to get involved, now is the time.
Our Skating Fundamentals & Refresher Clinic is nearly sold out, with only three spots still open. It’s the perfect way to sharpen your edges, rebuild confidence, and hit the ice ready for winter league play. For our netminders, the Goalie Weekend Clinic has quickly become one of the most sought-after events — just four of the twelve slots remain. It’s a rare chance for goaltenders to work exclusively with dedicated coaches in an environment built just for them.
Tournament season is also right around the corner, and the Duluth Classic is calling. Teams from across the state will gather on the North Shore for one of our most anticipated traditions. Don’t wait — registration closes on September 15th.
And if you’re new to AHA, welcome! Our upcoming evaluation sessions on September 23rd and October 1st will help place you at the right level, ensuring that your first season sets you up for success both on the ice and in the locker room.
Opportunities like these don’t stick around for long. Whether you’re chasing your next challenge, building your skills, or stepping onto the ice for the first time, now is the time to register and be part of the story we’re writing together this winter.
| Program | Start Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 Spring Beginner School | October 4, 2025 | Beginner School Tournament |
| 2025 Summer League | May 2025 | Completed |
| Skating Refresher Clinic | October 8 2025 | 3 Spots Remaining |
| Goalie Clinic | Sept 26-28, 2025 | 4 Spots Remaining |
| 2025 Fall League | Sept/Oct, 2025 | In Progress |
| 2025 Twin Cities Classic | Postponed to 2026 due to renovations | |
| 2025 Duluth Classic | Oct 17-19, 2025 | Registration deadline Sept 15th |
| 2025 Evaluations | Sept 23rd & Oct 1st | Registration open |
