Successful Fleet clinic kicked off summer of teaching from PWHL Teams

The Boston Fleet kicked off a summer of PWHL-team-led camps and clinics with their first-ever Summer Development Clinic for local youth players, which took place in mid-July at Edge Sports Center in Bedford, MA. Over the course of several days, 54 kids took the ice with Fleet players and coaches, sharpening their skills, learning new techniques and experiencing firsthand what it’s like to train like the pros.

The program blended a mix of on-ice sessions, classroom learning, and team-building activities. For the Fleet, it was an extension of the club’s commitment to growing the game in New England while also building connections between professional athletes and the next generation of hockey players.

“This year’s clinic was a huge success,” said Colleen Goonan, the Fleet’s Fan Development and Group Sales Coordinator, who oversaw much of the program’s execution. “Our on-ice sessions gave players the chance to sharpen their skills and apply them in competitions and games throughout the week. Off the ice, our classroom sessions focused on key strategies for success, helping athletes grow both as hockey players and as individuals.”

Highlights from the clinic included specialized skating and shooting drills, small-area games, and situational play designed to challenge players in game-like scenarios. Participants also had the chance to sit in on classroom-style sessions where Fleet staff broke down strategy, teamwork, and preparation.

But the biggest thrill for many of the kids was the chance to learn directly from players such as Jillian Dempsey, Hadley Hartmetz and star goaltender Aerin Frankel, who all jumped on the ice to run drills, answer questions and offer encouragement.

Fleet forward Sophie Shirley helped lead the clinic on the ice and found the experience as rewarding for her and her teammates as it was for the young players.

“I had such a great time working with future PWHL stars in our summer clinic this year,” Shirley said. “It was amazing to connect with some of the players and to get to have a small part in their development. I’m really looking forward to being involved again next summer!”

The combination of hockey fundamentals and life lessons underscored the Fleet’s holistic approach to player development. For many of the kids in attendance, the chance to work with professional women’s hockey players was not only a training opportunity but also an inspirational one. Seeing PWHL athletes up close made the dream of playing at a higher level feel that much more tangible.

The program was also part of a larger effort by the Fleet to establish deep roots in Boston’s hockey community. By engaging directly with young players and their families, the organization continues to build its fan base while also nurturing the sport at the grassroots level.

With strong turnout and enthusiastic feedback, the Fleet already have their sights set on future editions of the clinic.

As the Fleet look ahead to the upcoming PWHL season, their summer development program stands as another reminder of how professional women’s hockey is inspiring the next generation not just in the stands, but directly on the ice.