Junior Americans to play in Eastern Junior League

The Rochester Junior Americans have been accepted for play in the Eastern Junior Hockey League (EJHL) beginning in the 2004-2005 season. They will initially be an associate member and anticipate becoming a full league member for the 2005-2006 season. Currently, the team plays in the Empire Junior B League. The move to the EJHL is considered a significant step up for the Junior Americans program.

"We are very excited to become part of this prestigious league. For our players, it means better competition, a better chance to develop their skills and added exposure to college scouts from across the country," said Ed Carney, head coach of the Junior Americans. "This is great news for our team and for all of our players, today and in the future."

For the 2004-2005 season the Junior Americans will play a combined schedule of Empire Junior B League games and EJHL games. The team anticipates a 60-70 game schedule which includes four EJHL tournaments. The rigorous program will expose players to most of the college scouts on the eastern seaboard.

Based in Boston, the EJHL is the premier college development league in the eastern United States, having placed more than 250 players into college programs over the past five years. It is currently comprised of twelve teams, all from New England and eastern New York.

The Rochester Junior Americans practice and play at the ESL Sports Centre, on the MCC campus in Brighton. Last year's team included players from Brighton, Irondequoit, Webster, Geneseo, Batavia, Canandaigua, Greece, Fairport, Gates and Spencerport.

Tryouts for next season begin on April 30. For information visit www.empirehockey.com/rochester.