Youth sports depend heavily on the commitment and support of families. In ice hockey, that dedication often goes even further, with early practices, travel to rinks, and the need for specialized equipment. In the Marple Newtown community, that commitment helped bring a long-standing hockey tradition back to life.

In 2013, Broomall residents Larry and Janell Besa, along with several other Marple Newtown families, worked to re-establish the Marple Newtown Ice Hockey Club (MNIHC). The Besas, along with community members including Bob Yocum, John Meehan, Joe Carafa, Kathy Miller, and Lisa Fino, were instrumental in getting the club back up and running and building a foundation for youth hockey players living in the Marple Newtown School District.

The renewed interest in hockey came as several local families were looking for opportunities for their children to play within their own community. While hockey had once been a strong part of Marple Newtown athletics decades earlier, the program had dissolved over time. Through the dedication of these families, the club was successfully rebuilt with the goal of providing a strong developmental program for student-athletes.

The Marple Newtown Ice Hockey Club emphasizes athletic development, sportsmanship, accountability, self-discipline, and respect for others while creating a positive team environment for players.

In 2016, Matt DeNucci became President of the Marple Newtown Ice Hockey Club and continues to serve in that role today. Under his leadership, the club has continued to grow while maintaining its strong community foundation.

Today, the program offers co-ed teams at the elementary, middle school, and high school levels, with practices held at PNY Sports Arena in West Chester. Many of the club’s volunteers and leaders are parents whose children have been part of the program since elementary school, reflecting the long-term commitment families make to the club and to the development of young players.

The Marple Newtown High School Ice Hockey team is open to all students at Marple Newtown High School and serves as the culmination of the club’s developmental pathway, giving players the opportunity to represent their school and community on the ice. 🏒