Two California programs selected for USA Hockey’s new national player development initiative, set to begin in the 2027–28 season.
California youth hockey is taking another exciting step forward on the national stage.
USA Hockey has officially announced the 29 organizations selected to participate in its new USA Hockey Development League (DL), with two California programs, the Anaheim Jr. Ducks and Los Angeles Jr. Kings, earning places in the inaugural season.
The California Amateur Hockey Association (CAHA) congratulates both organizations on their selection and recognizes this significant opportunity for the continued growth and development of hockey in California.
A New Chapter in American Hockey
Scheduled to begin play in the 2027–28 season, the USA Hockey Development League represents a new approach to developing high-performance youth hockey players across the United States.
The league will feature two age classifications, 15U and 17U, with each participating organization fielding one team at each level.
Unlike traditional competition structures, the Development League will place an increased emphasis on long-term athlete development, advanced coaching, structured training, and national competition.
Participating teams will play approximately 40 to 55 regular-season games, with at least 60 percent of those games against other Development League organizations.
The initiative is designed to help prepare athletes for opportunities in junior hockey, including the United States Hockey League (USHL) and North American Hockey League (NAHL), as well as collegiate and professional hockey.
California Represented Among the Nation’s Top Programs
The selection of the Anaheim Jr. Ducks and Los Angeles Jr. Kings places California alongside some of the most established youth hockey organizations in the country.
Both organizations have long contributed to the development of competitive youth hockey in Southern California, providing opportunities for athletes to develop their skills and pursue higher levels of competition.
Their inclusion in the Development League reflects California’s growing presence within the national hockey landscape.
For CAHA, this announcement is another opportunity to recognize the dedication of players, coaches, families, volunteers, and organizations working to strengthen hockey throughout the state.
What Does This Mean for California Youth Hockey?
While the Development League introduces a new opportunity for high-performance athletes, it is important to recognize that traditional Tier I, Tier II, high school, and other youth hockey pathways will continue to play essential roles in player development.
USA Hockey has emphasized that player development is not a straight line. Athletes progress at different rates, and the Development League is intended to provide another pathway rather than replace existing opportunities.
For California hockey families, this means additional opportunities for athletes to pursue their goals while continuing to benefit from the programs and competition structures already established throughout the state.
Looking Ahead to 2027
All 29 selected organizations have confirmed their participation in the inaugural Development League season.
The league’s upcoming milestones include:
- January 15–31, 2027: Early signing period for returning players.
- February 2027: Open signing period.
- August 1, 2027: Development League teams may begin practices.
- September 2027: Inaugural regular season begins.
As the league prepares for its first season, CAHA looks forward to following the progress of California’s participating organizations and the opportunities this new initiative may create for young athletes.
Congratulations to Our California Programs!
CAHA congratulates the Anaheim Jr. Ducks and Los Angeles Jr. Kings on their selection to the USA Hockey Development League.
We wish both organizations continued success as they prepare to represent California on the national stage.
The future of California hockey continues to grow, and we look forward to seeing what comes next.
Learn More
For additional information, visit the official USA Hockey Development League website or read USA Hockey’s announcement confirming all 29 participating organizations.
California Amateur Hockey Association | Supporting the Growth and Development of Youth Hockey in California