When it comes to being recognized on a national level, it’s often a challenge for young athletes to make the cut. But for the Cobb County Junior Chiefs roller hockey team, an astonishing four players have been accepted into Inline Hockey USA’s National Development Program (NDP). Led by the Head of the Organization and Head Coach Nick Venezia, the team is currently celebrating the wonderful news of their acceptance while continuing to practice hard to prepare for the upcoming games. Coach Venezia couldn’t be happier to see his players giving it their all and playing at their best level.
“The coolest part of this is giving kids some forever memories,” said Coach Venezia. “The parents are such a huge part of our success…it’s because of their buy in that we can push them hard to become their best. And they know we are always there for the kids.”
Inline Hockey USA’s NDP Showcase Tournament offers young players the chance to compete against other skilled players from across the country. The program recently tasted victory in June, winning two Tournament of Roller Hockey Series (TORHS) National Championship trophies, with each trophy representing the 10u and 12u age divisions, respectively. But now, the players enjoy bringing their talents to the rink on a grander scale.
“The National Development Showcase, which the boys are participating in, is their first taste of representing their country and experiencing international competition, playing against Canada as well,” said Coach Venezia. “From there, the selection takes the top 10 skaters and two goal ies at each age group from the East Coast, Central U.S., and West Coast and plays them against one another and the top players selected from Canada in a tournament.”
The four players being recognized for their achievements on the rink include Ryan Mannion and Luke Davis for the 10u East division, along with Kyle Zhang and Stephen Parlatore for the 12u East division, respectively. These young athletes could not be more excited to be a part of this team while continuing to compete as part of the program.
“It’s just a great culture and everyone’s really a part of this team and we all love each other,” said Kyle Zhang. “I was really excited because we get to go and play some of the best players in the country.”
For years, the USA Inline NDP has provided a platform for nurturing and developing young talent in the sport of inline hockey. Founded by current and former members of Team USA Inline Hockey, the mission of the USA Inline National Development program is to “help identify and develop players of potential world-class ability and prepare them for international competition.” As they continue to practice for the upcoming tournament at the Northeast Cobb YMCA, these four players are ready to put their skills to the test and give it their all in the national competition.
“It is exciting to [be accepted into the program] and I am excited to play against all these different teams,” said Luke Davis. “I love playing on this team because the coach is amazing and my teammates are so fun to be around.”
To learn more about the team and follow upcoming events and accomplishments, visit their website at www. CobbJuniorChiefs.com or follow them on Instagram at www.instagram.com/CobbCountyJuniorChiefs.
