For many service members, veterans, and civilians at Hill Air Force Base, the local ice rink in Ogden offers more than a sport; it offers a family. In a lifestyle shaped by frequent moves and high-stress demands, the Hill hockey community has become a steady constant built on camaraderie, support, and shared purpose.
That bond was evident over Memorial Day weekend at the Armed Services Hockey Tournament in Jacksonville, Florida. Hill brought two teams composed of old friends, new arrivals, and players who flew in specifically to wear the jersey again. The chemistry helped both Hill teams rise to the top of their divisions and secure championship banners during the single weekend.
On the ice and in the locker room, players connect as teammates first. Retired Master Sgt. Mike Shane, President of the Armed Services Hockey Tournaments, stated that once players are on the ice with that bond, it becomes a family, noting that traditional military hierarchies like Lieutenant or Senior Airman dissolve within the locker room.
This welcoming environment attracts newcomers and returning players, particularly those who have been away from the sport due to deployments, financial constraints, or military demands. Staff Sgt. Matthew Smith, a unit trainer with the 75th Security Forces Squadron, described the environment as inviting and noted the importance of bonding with people who understand the weight of military service.
The Armed Services Hockey Tournament began in 2003 with six teams to provide deploying service members a break from job stress. Over 23 years, it has grown to host more than 70 teams and partners with the USA Hockey Warriors program to support active-duty personnel and disabled veterans.
Shane has observed the tournament's impact on mental health, recounting stories from team captains about players finding purpose through the program. He noted that when hearing that playing hockey can save a life, the program becomes more than just an option; it provides people with a purpose.
For others like goalie Tim Broussard, an F-15 secondary power program manager at Hill, military hockey helps ease the harsh period of adjustment when coming off active duty.
The community now looks toward the Veterans Day tournament in Las Vegas, which features more than 70 teams. Despite the competitive nature, fighting is nearly nonexistent in these tournaments because players view each other as brothers in arms.
As new players move to Utah and others return from deployments, the Hill hockey community continues to grow. The ultimate goal remains maintaining a space where everyone has a place on the bench, regardless of whether they are seasoned skaters or returning after many years.
