Avon Old Farms Hockey Elite Prospects
Avon Old Farms is a Connecticut boarding school that has made a name for itself in the sports world. Their ice hockey program, in particular, is well-known for developing elite prospects. Avon Old Farms has produced dozens of Division I college players, as well as NHL draft picks.
A Brief History of Avon Old Farms Hockey
The Avon Old Farms hockey program began in the early 1930s, when the school's headmaster, Theodate Pope Riddle, built an ice rink on campus. The program gained popularity over the years, and by the 1950s, Avon Old Farms had become one of the top prep school hockey teams in the country.
In the 1980s, Avon Old Farms became known for its ability to develop elite prospects. The school's coach at the time, John Gardner, was a former NHL player and was known for his ability to teach players the skills they needed to succeed at the next level. Under his leadership, Avon Old Farms produced several future NHL players, including defenseman Brian Leetch.
Today, Avon Old Farms continues to be a top destination for elite hockey prospects. The school's program is led by coach John Gardner's son, John Gardner II. Gardner II has continued his father's legacy of developing top-tier prospects, and the school has produced several current NHL players, including forwards Nick Bonino and Cam Atkinson.
The Avon Old Farms Advantage
So, what makes Avon Old Farms such a great destination for elite hockey prospects? There are several factors that set the school apart:
1. Elite Coaching
The Gardner family has a long history of coaching at Avon Old Farms. John Gardner II has been coaching at the school since 1995 and has established himself as one of the top coaches in the prep school hockey world. He has a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed as a hockey player and has helped numerous players reach their potential.
2. Top-Notch Facilities
Avon Old Farms has invested heavily in its athletic facilities over the years. The school's hockey rink, the Jennings Fairchild Rink, is one of the best in the country. The rink has been renovated several times over the years and features top-of-the-line amenities.
3. Academic Excellence
Avon Old Farms is known for its rigorous academic program. The school's teachers are committed to helping students excel in the classroom, and the school has a strong tradition of sending graduates to top colleges and universities.
The Avon Old Farms Pipeline
Over the years, Avon Old Farms has developed a reputation as a pipeline to Division I college hockey programs and the NHL. Here are just a few of the school's notable alumni:
Brian Leetch
Brian Leetch is one of Avon Old Farms' most famous alumni. Leetch played for the school in the early 1980s and went on to have a Hall of Fame career in the NHL. He won the Calder Trophy as the NHL's top rookie in 1989 and later won two Norris Trophies as the league's top defenseman. Leetch also won a silver medal with Team USA at the 2002 Olympics.
Nick Bonino
Forward Nick Bonino played for Avon Old Farms in the mid-2000s. He went on to play college hockey at Boston University, where he was a key player on the Terriers' 2009 national championship team. Bonino has since carved out a successful NHL career, winning two Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Cam Atkinson
Forward Cam Atkinson played for Avon Old Farms in the late 2000s. He went on to play college hockey at Boston College, where he helped lead the Eagles to two national championships. Atkinson is now a key player for the Columbus Blue Jackets.
The Future of Avon Old Farms Hockey
Avon Old Farms shows no signs of slowing down when it comes to developing elite hockey prospects. The school continues to attract top-tier talent from all over the country, and its coaches are committed to helping players reach their full potential. As long as Avon Old Farms remains dedicated to its hockey program, it will continue to be a top destination for the next generation of hockey stars.