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Rockets History

Welcome to the NJ Rockets – the most successful hockey organization in the Metropolitan New York area. The Rockets organization is committed to providing leadership, focus and the drive to push each player beyond their perceived limitations in order to maximize their abilities and potential as complete hockey players. The Rockets organization also places a strong emphasis on skills development, sportsmanship, teamwork and a thorough understanding of, and appreciation for, the sport of hockey.

From first-class coaching to a proven history of success and a commitment to excellence, the NJ Rockets is the ideal organization for talented players on the rise. Come join the Rockets as we continue to reach for the stars!

The New Jersey Rockets Youth Hockey Organization has become the most successful organization in the Metropolitan New York area, dating back to its inception in 1970. The Rockets have won national championships and produced several great players who achieved fame in prep schools, college and at the professional level, including Jeremy Roenick and Brian Mullen. Recent participants of the program who have gone on to excel at the NCAA level are John Sabo (Boston University Captain), Chris Swon (Brown University), Art Feminella (University of Vermonet and NHL Tampa Bay Lightning draft choice), Steve Mandes (U.S. National Team), E.J. Solomine (Boston University), and John Ralph (Jr. A USHL). Former Jr. A Rocket's Defenseman John Carlson is currently patrolling the blueline for the NHL's Washington Capitals, having been their first round pick in the 2008 NHL Draft.

The original Rockets called the Totowa Ice Rink its home in the 1970's, and the program later moved to Central Jersey's Bridgewater Sports Arena for the 1990-91 season. The winning tradition was re-established through the the 1990's, bringing the regional and national recognition to the Rockets.

The on-ice successes have been numerous, culminating in championships at the Atlantic Youth Hockey League regular season and playoff Championships across every division, numerous New Jersey Youth Hockey League championships, as perennial qualifiers for the USA Hockey's National Championships, and the prestigious Silver Sticks. Since the new Millennium, there have been five consecutive appearances at the Nationals including: the 2000 Peewees, the 2001 Peewee Major National Champions, the 2002 Bantam Majors, the 2003 Midget Minors, the 2004 Junior B and 2005 Bantam Majors.

These accomplishments speak volumes to the continued commitment and level of excellence achieved by the coaches, The Rockets are committed to competitive regular and post-season play at the highest level of the region's most competitive league and the Atlantic District.

With the inception of the National Collegiate Development Conference (NCDC) the Rockets, one of the first teams to join the conference, start a new chapter in Rockets history.