First post here.
New to the NAHL this year, been attending most of the Aston Rebels home games this season. Very impressed with the quality of the league. Attendance has been a bit disappointing, between 200-400 each game, but it is a small rink. I imagine they could pack 1000 in there for a sellout. To their credit, they have been all over the place in community trying to get their name out there, especially with the numerous youth hockey programs in the area.
A few players have stood out so far for the team.
G Darion Hanson - Team picked him up in a trade right after the showcase this year, and the team has really turned things around since he's been the starter. 7-1 with a 2.44 GAA and .914 SV% so far. He's bailed this team out numerous times this year, including a 2-1 victory against league leaders Fairbanks in Alaska. Every night he gives you at least 2-3 saves that leaves the opposing player shaking his head. IMO he definitely has Division 1 offers coming his way soon, 97 birth year so he's still got a couple years in Juniors.
D Kristofers Bindulis - One of two Latvian defenders on the team. Currently leads the league in scoring for defensemen. 3 G, 15 A in 18 games. One of the main reasons this team is near the top of the league in Power Play scoring. Big slap shot power from the point. He was back and forth last year between NAHL and USHL. Last year of juniors for him so hopefully he receives an NCAA offer in the next couple months.
D Gvido Jansens - The other Latvian defender. Played for Latvia U18 and U20 teams. 3 G and 7 A so far this season. Missed about 3 weeks with a shoulder injury earlier in the season. Might have the hardest slap shot in the league. Have seen a few NHL scouts in attendance this season looking at him, most recently this weekend with games coinciding with the NAPHL showcase in Aston.
I certainly agree with some other posters, the East division schedule is too repetitive. 18 games against each of the other three teams, then 4 with each of the Alaskan teams. Hopefully the rumored expansion in the East is true. Would love to see more teams on the schedule.