The Sabres Hockey Association, a youth hockey organization founded in 1971 and based out of the All Seasons Ice Rinks in Naperville, IL, has announced its entry into the Atlantic Hockey Federation for the 2023-24 season. The Sabres will be a showcase only team, and will feature a talented coaching staff that includes Chris Chelios, Matt Vanheast, Vito Bruno, Mike Lively, and Jacob Arroyo. Matt VanHeest is a level 4 certified coach and is entering his 7th season with the Sabres. Vito Bruno played for the Sabres before playing junior hockey and college hockey at Robert Morris. Mike Lively started his youth hockey career with the Chargers and then went on to play at Ohio University, where he was a 3x Academic All-American and was named to the TSCHL All-Conference Team. Jacob Arroyo has played hockey since he was 3 and played college hockey at Iowa.
The Sabres Hockey Association has established itself as one of the top teams in the nation for U-16 and U-18 this year, ranking in the top 20. They have produced multiple alumni who have gone on to play at the D1, D2, and D3 college levels, including Luke Hartge, Mike Viola, and Eric Svejda.
Joining the Atlantic Hockey Federation represents a significant step forward for the Sabres, who will now have the opportunity to compete against other top teams from around the nation. The Sabres are excited to showcase their talent on the national stage, and are looking forward to the opportunities that come with playing in the Atlantic Hockey Federation. With a talented coaching staff and a roster full of skilled players, the Sabres are poised to make a strong showing in the upcoming season.