The East Coast Elite League (ECEL) hosted another successful weekend of prep hockey competition at the 2025 ECEL Holiday Classic, held October 31–November 2 at Lovell Arena in Rockland, Massachusetts. The event featured a full slate of games across the 18U and 16U divisions, showcasing strong performances from league members and guest programs alike.
18U Division: Wilmington and Top Speed Lead the Pack
In a competitive 18U field, Wilmington Nighthawks and Top Speed Hockey Academy each impressed with strong weekends, both finishing with 3–1 records. Wilmington’s balanced attack and consistent defensive play powered them to wins over Northern Cyclones Academy, Elite Hockey Academy Split, and Top Speed.
Top Speed Hockey Academy also put together an impressive showing, earning three convincing victories and continuing to prove themselves as one of the top programs in the ECEL circuit. Cyclones Academy and Elite Hockey Academy Split both battled through challenging matchups, while gaining valuable experience against high-level competition.
The division also featured several guest programs, including Atlantic Coast Academy, Norwich Hockey Club, and Cyclones Premier, who each contributed to a competitive weekend of hockey. The ECEL extends its thanks to all guest teams for joining the event and adding to the strength of the field.
16U Division: Nassau County Lions Stay Perfect
The 16U division delivered another weekend of tight competition and high-paced games, highlighted by the Nassau County Lions, who finished a perfect 4–0. Nassau showcased impressive depth and offensive firepower, capping their weekend with a dominant shutout win.
Ontario Hockey Academy followed close behind at 3–1, while Elite Hockey Academy Split went 2–1, earning key victories over the Northern Cyclones and Central Penn Panthers. Top Speed Hockey Academy and Long Beach Lightning each finished an even 2–2, both showing flashes of strong two-way play.
The field also included the Mass Admirals, Central Penn Panthers, and Cyclones Academy, rounding out a deep and competitive 16U bracket. Guest program Atlantic Coast Academy made a strong showing in their lone matchup, earning a 4–1 win over Long Beach Lightning.
Looking Ahead
As teams close out the ECEL Holiday Classic, attention now turns to the league’s next event—the ECEL Winter Classic, taking place January 9–11 in New Hampshire. With midseason momentum on the line, ECEL teams will look to continue their development and build toward a strong second half of the year.
Follow the ECEL for updates, scores, and highlights throughout the 2025–26 season.