The BHL (presumably, Bay State Hockey League) has a rich history and continues to develop talented hockey players. From its rules and regulations to its notable alumni, here's a detailed look at what makes this league significant.
Notable Players and Alumni
Several players who honed their skills in the BHL have gone on to achieve success in the NHL:
- Matty Beniers: A Hingham, MA native, Beniers developed his skills with Lovell Hockey before making his mark in the NHL.
- Chris Kreider: A Valley Jr. Warriors alumnus, Kreider is currently in his 14th NHL season. He recently surpassed Adam Graves to become the third all-time leading goal scorer for the New York Rangers.
- Ryan Leonard: A rising star and Springfield Jr. Thunderbirds alum, Leonard was selected 8th overall by the Washington Capitals in the 2023 NHL Draft.
- Michael Kesselring: Another promising young talent who is a New Hampshire Avalanche alumnus.
These players exemplify the BHL's role in nurturing hockey talent.
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League Regulations and Guidelines
The BHL operates under specific rules to ensure fair play and sportsmanship:
- All teams must be registered with Massachusetts Hockey or a USA Hockey Affiliate District.
- Teams should be ready to play 5 minutes prior to the scheduled game time.
- A warm-up period of three minutes shall be allowed prior to the start of each game.
- A player from a team at a lower level may be carried as an alternate.
- Each alternate may play only ten (10) games for the team above. If a player participates in an eleventh (11th) game, he or she will not be allowed to play for the team below.
- Each time an alternate player plays he or she must sign the score sheet prior to the start of the game; otherwise, the game will result in a forfeit.
- In case of inclement weather, teams should contact their opponent.
- Teams can submit black out dates in advance of the league schedule being generated and published.
- Any designated home game that is not played will result in a $500 fine.
- Any coach, manager, or trainer ejected from a game will automatically receive a one-game suspension from the Elite 9 Hockey League.
- Any coach who behaves in a less than gentlemanly manner either during, before, or after the game will receive a suspension from the league.
Historical Data and Statistics
While specific data for the 1995-1996 season is unavailable, the league maintains records of player nationalities and all-time statistics.
Read also: More on the VHL
Player Nationalities Throughout History
The BHL has attracted players from various countries. Here's a breakdown of player nationalities:
- 95 players - Nationality 1
- 86 players - Nationality 2
- 31 players - Nationality 3
- 7 players - Nationality 4
- 7 players - Nationality 5
- 5 players - Nationality 6
- 3 players - Nationality 7
- 2 players - Nationality 8
- 2 players - Nationality 9
- 1 player - Nationality 10
- 1 player - Nationality 11
All-Time Stats
The league also keeps track of all-time statistics, including:
- Points
- Goals
- Assists
- Penalty Minutes
- Games Played
- Points Per Game
- Points Per Season
- Goals Per Season
- Assists Per Season
- Penalty Minutes Per Season
These statistics provide a comprehensive view of player performance throughout the league's history.
The BHL continues to be a vital stepping stone for aspiring hockey players, fostering talent and promoting the sport at the grassroots level.
Read also: Adult Hockey League
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