The landscape of junior hockey in the Sunshine State is shifting. The Florida Junior Blades have officially announced their expansion into the USPHL National Collegiate Development Conference (NCDC), marking a significant milestone for the organization. In a move that reinforces their commitment to player advancement, the Blades will not only field a top-tier NCDC squad but will also maintain their highly competitive Premier team. This dual-threat structure creates a true developmental ladder, allowing players to sharpen their skills within a single, cohesive culture before making the jump to the NCDC level. The Core: Experience Behind the Bench To lead this new chapter, the Blades have tapped two coaches who don’t just talk about the “pro grind”—they’ve lived it. Both Noah Wild (NCDC) and Mac Diver (Premier) bring a “triple- threat” resume to the rink: multiple years of Junior hockey, NCAA collegiate play, and Professional experience. These aren’t just tactical experts; they are mentors who understand the psychological and physical demands of the modern game. Their transition from the ice to the bench was fueled by a shared passion for the sport and a desire to give back to the next generation of athletes. Culture Over Everything: Brotherhood and Trust While many programs focus solely on the scoreboard, the Blades’ leadership is doubling down on culture. Coaches Wild and Diver pride themselves on fostering an environment built on three core pillars: “We aren’t just building a hockey team; we’re building a cohesive unit,” Coach Wild noted. “Individual development is the engine, but the culture of trust is the fuel that keeps us moving toward a championship team.” What it Takes to be a “Blade”: The Florida Junior Blades are officially on the hunt for talent, but they aren’t just looking for the fastest skater or the hardest shot. They are searching for the exceptional player—both on and off the ice. The ideal candidate possesses: By joining the NCDC while keeping their Premier roots, the Blades have secured their spot as a premier destination for players aiming for the NCAA and beyond. In Florida, the sun isn’t the only thing heating up; the competition on the ice is just getting started.
