The New Jersey Titans U18 Premier Team, a team that has defied expectations, has just clinched first place in the district, earning them a step closer to the national stage. The Titans U18 Program has always been unparalleled for player development and advancement, but this season a quiet confidence began to take hold as they made their way up the rankings in the AYHL.
Their breakthrough moment came in the final stages of the regular season, when they faced off against the Valley Forge Minutemen (win 5-3, win 8-2), Philadelphia Hockey Club (win 4-3), North Jersey Avalanche (win 5-0) and the Junior Flyers (win 1-0). Coming out on top in all five games secured them a first place seed in the AAHA District play which gives them the bye straight to the USA Hockey National Championships March 16-18 at Ice Line in Westchester, PA.
This is a true indication of their hard work and dedication in the face of adversity. The team, made up of dedicated hard workers and skilled players from both New Jersey and beyond, have demonstrated unwavering commitment and made significant sacrifices to get to the top.
What truly sets the Titans apart from its competitors is their remarkable ability to stay true to themselves. The Titans remain steadfast in their commitment to their identity and principles: development, advancement and exposure. This season, Jp Saddy (06) and Nick Reich (05) tendered with the NAHL Titans and Trevor Dalton (05), Ryan Starman (05), and Lachlan Haegar (05) are NAHL Titans affiliates. This gives the athletes chances to practice and/or play with the NAHL team, increasing their competition and development as well as an inside view of Junior Hockey.
"This is a group that plays very consistent hockey over the course of a full game, combined with their skill sets and their structure. We are very hard to beat right now." said Coach George Haviland, U18 Premier Head Coach.
As they continue to defy expectations and achieve new heights of excellence, the New Jersey Titans Midget Program stands as a shining example of what can be accomplished when a team remains true to themselves and their values, making them not only one of the best programs in the nation but also a source of inspiration for all younger Titans and kids in our area.