Connecticut Chiefs North: A New Era in Junior Hockey in Biddeford, Maine
The Connecticut Chiefs organization has acquired the National Collegiate Development Conference (NCDC) franchise previously known as the Eastern Charlotte Kingfishers. The team will now be known as the Connecticut Chiefs North and will compete in the 2025-26 season at Biddeford Ice Arena in Biddeford, Maine as part of the North Division of the New England Conference. The move aims to provide players with a direct path to college hockey and bring high-level competition to the Biddeford community.
The Chiefs Owner, Brandon Johnson, expressed excitement about rejoining the NCDC and bringing Junior Hockey back to the CT Chiefs organization. The team's presence in Biddeford, Maine is expected to offer family-friendly entertainment and showcase fast-paced, competitive hockey. Greg Heffernan, a seasoned coach known for developing talent and guiding players to the collegiate level, will serve as the CT Chiefs North General Manager and Head Coach, further enhancing the team's prospects.
Kevin Abrams, the NCDC's Director of Operations, highlighted the positive impact of the Chiefs' relocation to Biddeford, Maine, emphasizing the seamless transition and the team's strong ownership and hockey operations team. The move aligns well with the New England Conference's Northern Division and is expected to contribute to the league's growth and development.
The CT Chiefs are gearing up for their NCDC Main Camp, scheduled for Aug. 15-17 at Newington (Conn.) Arena. Prospective players interested in joining the team can reach out to [email protected] for more information. The United States Premier Hockey League (USPHL), the largest junior hockey organization in North America, oversees the NCDC and other divisions, providing opportunities for players aged 8-21 to pursue their hockey dreams and advance to college hockey.
In conclusion, the acquisition of the NCDC franchise by the Connecticut Chiefs organization marks a significant development in the hockey landscape, offering players a pathway to college hockey and bringing high-level competition to Biddeford, Maine. With experienced leadership and a commitment to player development, the CT Chiefs North team is poised to make a positive impact in the New England Conference's Northern Division.