
Our History
Based in Utica, NY - Notre Dame Academy Hockey Program was established to provide elite amateur hockey players with a comprehensive development experience, combining top-tier athletic training and competitive opportunities with a rigorous academic foundation. Partnered with Notre Dame School and Utica University, the academy was founded on the principles of excellence both on the ice and in the classroom, creating a pathway for athletes to succeed at the highest levels of hockey and education.
Our Approach
At Notre Dame Hockey Academy, our approach focuses on individualized development, offering athletes tailored training plans that maximize their potential both on and off the ice. By integrating advanced coaching, unlimited ice time, and academic excellence through our partnership with Notre Dame School and Utica University, we ensure our players are prepared for success in their hockey careers and beyond.

About Notre Dame Hockey Academy
Based in Utica, NY - Notre Dame Hockey Academy offers a world-class development environment for elite amateur hockey players across North America. With a strong focus on both athletic and academic excellence, our program prepares players for the next step in their hockey careers, while also ensuring a well-rounded education through our partnership with Notre Dame School and Utica University.
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Athletic Development
Our athletes participate in a highly competitive schedule, including some of the top showcase events and tournaments in North America, designed to give them maximum exposure to professional and collegiate scouts. With specialized training, strength and conditioning programs, and mentorship from experienced coaches, we focus on elevating each player’s abilities to help them succeed at the next level, whether it's NCAA Division 1 or professional junior hockey.
Key Features of the Program:
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Extended season: August through June, featuring a 50-60 game schedule.
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Competitive Leagues: Participation in Tier 1 AAA hockey and competing against top U.S. and Canadian prep schools.
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Showcase Events: Players compete in 6-8 major showcases, attended by NHL, NCAA, and junior hockey scouts.
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Comprehensive Support: All travel, accommodations, and meals are covered for players during practices, games, and events.
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Personalized Training
Our development plans are tailored to each individual player, focusing on skill refinement and preparation for higher levels of competition. Athletes receive unlimited ice time, as well as access to advanced strength and conditioning programs.
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Training Resources Include:
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Dedicated locker rooms and training spaces at the Utica University Nexus Center.
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Film and video analysis for player development and strategy refinement.
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Full-time coaching staff offering on and off-ice mentorship and guidance.
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Academic Excellence
Notre Dame Hockey Academy prides itself on offering not only the best in athletic training but also top-tier educational opportunities. Players attend the Notre Dame School, which provides a college preparatory environment with a strong focus on moral values, communication skills, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving.
Additionally, our partnership with Utica University allows players to take college-level courses, gaining an academic advantage while still in high school. This unique approach ensures that our athletes are prepared not only for success on the ice but also for life beyond hockey.
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Notre Dame Hockey Academy Housing
Athletes live in private, secure residential facilities, located less than a 5-minute walk from Notre Dame School and just 3 miles from the Nexus Center, where they train. The dormitory environment is overseen by coaches and staff to ensure a safe and supportive atmosphere that fosters both athletic and academic growth. Housing will be through the Campus West Apartments, linked here.
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A Pathway to Success
Notre Dame Hockey Academy is designed for North America’s most talented hockey players who are looking to advance to the highest levels of the sport. Our comprehensive program, combining top-tier training with a rigorous academic curriculum, ensures that players are well-rounded, disciplined, and ready for the next challenge.
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Whether aiming for NCAA Division 1 commitments or advancing to the next level of junior hockey, our athletes leave the program equipped with the skills and mindset to succeed in every aspect of their future endeavors.