USA Hockey's NTDP Seeking Host Families

Posted: Jun 13, 2011 at 12:06 PM [Jun 13, 2011]

Each year dozens of exceptional Ann Arbor families open their homes to 46 of the finest American amateur hockey players in the nation. These selfless families provide a vital service to the success of USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program. USA Hockey always needs families to take in players and provide homes and a family environment for the student-athletes who attend Ann Arbor Pioneer High School.

Since the National Team Development Program was founded in 1996, a total of 28 alumni have played for the University of Michigan, five of whom went on to serve as captains — Eric Nystrom, Matt Hunwick, Kevin Porter, Mark Mitera and Chris Summers. Porter was named the winner of the 2008 Hobey Baker Memorial Award, given annually to college hockey’s top student-athlete.

USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program was created 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 players in the program are split into two squads - the U.S. National Under-18 and Under-17 Teams. The schedule includes games against junior teams in the United States Hockey League, participation in major international tournaments and competitions with NCAA Division I and III college hockey squads.

Over 180 NTDP players have been drafted by National Hockey League teams, including number-one overall selections — Rick DiPietro of the New York Islanders, Erik Johnson of the Colorado Avalanche and Patrick Kane of the Chicago Blackhawks. Over 60 NTDP alumni saw action in the NHL during the 2010-11 season. Over 300 NTDP players have signed National Letters of Intent with NCAA Division I hockey programs.

The relationship shared between the players, host families and the players’ families can last a lifetime! All families receive a monthly stipend and complimentary tickets to USA Hockey home games. If you want more information or live in the Ann Arbor school district and can help us by becoming a host family, please call our housing coordinators at (734) 327-9251 ext. 323 or email housing@usahockeyntdp.com.