By Brent Woodside,
Head Athletic Trainer, Colorado Eagles
PHATS AHL Executive Committee President

 We are now almost one season removed from the pandemic protocols and a better understanding of work/life balance and care for loved ones.

We would like to congratulate the Chicago Wolves and their staff on winning the Calder Cup since it’s hiatus from the last two seasons. While the extended season brings more work, it tends to make some of the best memories as well. This past summer also marks the first time in two years we were able to gather as a group and catch up with each other during the PHATS/SPHEM Annual Meetings in Marco Island, FL.

As the AHL begins the 2022-23 Season we welcome a new team to the league in the Coachella Valley Firebirds, located in Thousand Palms, CA. This brings the American Hockey League to 32 total teams and it ensures that every NHL team has their own affiliate in order to develop both players and staff members.

In closing, I would like to personally extend my thanks to all the athletic trainers, equipment managers, strength coaches, massage therapists and team physicians who put in countless hours and effort into making the American Hockey League what it has become and what we all want it to be. I hope to see all of you somewhere down the line.