History

Welcome to the history page of the East Coast Thunder Hockey Club, where the legacy of excellence and dedication echoes through the rinks. Founded and nurtured by Paul Sherbertes and John Danby, former co-founders of the New England Junior Hurricanes, our club was established with a singular mission in mind: to shape the next generation of hockey players and leaders.

The roots of our endeavor trace back to the esteemed New England Junior Hurricanes, which stood as a beacon of hockey prowess from 2007 to 2017 under the stewardship of Sherbertes and Danby. However, in 2017, winds of change blew as the Junior Hurricanes found a new home under the Seahawks Youth Hockey Program. Undeterred by this shift, Sherbertes and Danby embarked on a new journey, one that would eventually blossom into the East Coast Thunder Hockey Club.

At East Coast Thunder, we believe in a complete approach to player development, one that goes beyond the confines of the rink. Our comprehensive program revolves around three pillars: practice, competition, and character development. Through a relentless focus on these aspects, we aim to foster a culture of excellence wherein every player can realize their full potential.

Central to our philosophy is the cultivation of not just skilled athletes, but also principled leaders. We prioritize the enhancement of hockey IQ, the refinement of individual skills, the mastery of team concepts, and the instillation of vital leadership qualities. Respect, accountability, and confidence serve as the bedrock of our approach, with every player committing to team guidelines that promote personal growth and teamwork.

The fruits of our labor stand testament to our commitment. Over the years, our alumni have ascended to remarkable heights, gracing the rosters of Varsity High School Hockey, esteemed Prep Schools, competitive Junior leagues, and renowned College programs. Some have even etched their names in the annals of professional hockey, donning jerseys in the AHL and NHL.

Our pride swells as we recount the numerous achievements of our players. Many have captained their high school teams, leading by example both on and off the ice. Others have excelled in Junior programs such as the NA3HL, NAHL, and EHL, showcasing their talents at a national level.

Moreover, our players have thrived in the academic realm, gaining admission to a plethora of esteemed institutions. From New Hampshire University to Brown University, from Salem State to Phillips Exeter Academy, our alumni have left an indelible mark, embodying the values of hard work, dedication, and excellence that define our club.

As we continue on our journey, our ultimate goal remains unwavering: to build better individuals and hockey players through a steadfast commitment to excellence. At East Coast Thunder, the thunderous applause of victory is not just a fleeting moment on the ice but a resounding echo of the lifelong lessons learned through hard work, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of greatness. Join us as we shape the leaders and champions of tomorrow, one stride at a time.