Rest in Peace Dr. James Rusin
 |
The movement to make girls varsity ice hockey in Western New York a reality was a collective effort among students, parents, coaches, school board members, and administrators. The effort was a six year process. The person that led the charge among the administrators was Williamsville Athletic Director Dr. James Rusin. Without his patience and persistence the league never would have been formed. He convinced other administrators the time was right to finally give the girls a chance to play varsity ice hockey for their schools. It was not a popular decision among some of his peers, but he knew it was long overdue. He organized showcase games the year before the league was formed and found donors willing to fund the effort. The birth of the WNYGVIHF was one his accomplishments he was most proud of. He never wanted the credit for his involvement. He quickly became a huge fan of the sport and loved watching you girls play the game you are so passionate about. He was a true pioneer. Sunday January 6, 2013 Dr. Rusin lost his 6 month fight with cancer. He will be missed by all the teams and coaches in Williamsville. The attached picture is the league's opening night back in December of 2010. He did not want to be in the spotlight that evening but was convinced he was the one that deserved the honor of dropping the first puck in the Western New York Girls Varsity Ice Hockey Federation. Let's dedicate the rest of the 2012-13 season to Dr. Rusin, in memory of the battle he helped win on our behalf. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers.
|

Friday November 16, 2012
Canandaigua, NY
The Canandaigua Knights Girls 16U ice hockey team donned pink ribbon jerseys to raise $1,000 to benefit the Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester.
The Knights girl's ice hockey team matched up against the Buffalo Regals at the Blue Cross Arena. The donation was raised by both teams selling tickets to the Rochester Americans game that night combined with generosity from the Canandaigua Knights hockey community. The event was fun for all involved which included the Knights' 12U girls team taking the Blue Cross Arena ice during the first intermission of the Rochester Americans’ game for a shootout.
The Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester’s mission is to provide support to those touched by a diagnosis of breast cancer, to make access to information and care a priority through education and advocacy, and to empower women and men to participate fully in decisions relating to breast cancer.
The Knights are proud to support this very important group and show them what it means to "Fight Like a Knight!"
Former GLGHL'er and current Buffalo State Bengal Nikki Kirchberger Named ECAC West Rookie of the Week. Click Here 4 Story.

Great Lakes Girls Hockey League Treasurer Joe Crumlish presents a check to the Buffalo Regals 14U Captains to support their journey to the National Tournament. Just another way that GLGHL supports girls hockey in your community. The league donated money to West Seneca 12U & The Buffalo Regals 14U Teams to help out with trips to Nationals!
Offer pictures and articles of your teams/players accomplishments on/off the ice. Tournament stories and community service stories are always welcomed!
Read More News
GLGHL Mission Statement
The Mission of the Great Lakes Girls Hockey League (G.L.G.H.L). is to provide recreational hockey instruction and competition for females of all ages. To instill in the players the love of the game of hockey and a respect for the ideals of sportsmanship and fair play. GLGHL is affiliated with USA Hockey and the New York State Amateur Hockey Association. Join the New Wave! The G.L.G.H.L. has member organizations in the Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse areas of Western and Central NY State as well as Erie, PA and Cleveland, OH. From house recreational through competitive travel we have opportunities for all female players.