Courier

Media Credit: Roger Lai Young hockey players face off in a Southern California Amateur Hockey Association contest.

Energy is definitely not hard to come by during a Pasadena Maple Leafs hockey game.

It exudes from not only the players on the ice, but from the spectators as well.

"Nothing compares to the excitement and intensity that comes from a hockey game," Maple Leafs President, Lilly Liu said. "You can't help but get sucked in."

As the game wares on, the players do not. Even as steam rises from the ice, signaling their relentless effort, the players' enthusiasm has failed to dwindle.

The Maple Leafs are a non-profit organization entirely run by parents and volunteers. Established in 1964, it is the oldest youth hockey program in Southern California. They play in the Southern California Amateur Hockey Association (SCAHA), a youth club hockey league with an age range from six to 18.

The Maple Leafs play at Pasadena Ice Skating Center on Green St., between the Pasadena Civic Auditorium and the Pasadena Hilton.

"A lot of skill is attached to it," Liu, the mother of two past and one current Maple Leaf says.

"Not only are you concentrating on scoring but, you are on skates and carrying a hockey stick as well."

As clearly stated in their mission statement, the Maple Leafs are committed to use sport, teamwork, camaraderie, recreation and athleticism to facilitate the superior development of youth hockey players.

"We want our players to become great citizens and leaders of the community," Director of Coaches, Gary Paul Andre said.

"It's a great program for parents and children. It is very family oriented and it has terrific parents and terrific players," NBC news anchor and Maple Leafs hockey mother Colleen Williams said.

This year, the Maple Leafs are preparing to defend their SCAHA championship they won last season at the Bantam B level (ages 13-15).

With the possible construction of a brand new rink in the future, the Maple Leafs' future seems bright.

Andre plans to make a few changes once the new rink is up and running, including starting an adult team and including hearing impaired players to the roster.

"The best thing about hockey and what sets it apart from other sports, is that everyone participates on the ice. Plus, they get a good workout," Liu said.

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