The Golden State Elite 16U AA Girls hockey team from Northern California is ready to showcase their skills at the USA Hockey Nationals in Virginia. After clinching the Pacific Girls Hockey League title, they earned an at-large bid to the nationals featuring 28 teams. Head coach Tony Manino III highlights the significance of their participation against strong competitors. Formed in 2012, the youth program began a girls' division in 2023, promoting female participation in hockey amid a historically male-dominated sport. The team's consistency and practice schedule have contributed to their success and increased visibility.
I think this has been a huge part of their development. Not only coming to a team that has succeeded but also having the opportunity to compete at a national level.
Ever since we put this team together we've seen a huge influx of girls coming from all over. It's really inspiring to see young female athletes taking an interest in hockey.
There's not a whole lot of girl opportunities so being able to play on a team of all girls and not have that co-ed environment is pretty awesome.
We're a bunch of California girls just going out there and seeing what we can do against, what is supposed to be, some of the better states at hockey.
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