| The Montclair Junior Hockey League (MJHL) was formed in the early 1960s by a small group of residents - fathers who had played hockey in their earlier years and who were willing to give of their time, knowledge, and civic leadership to form a program. A year of activity was consumed in determining community interest and collecting demographic data, arranging for ice and so forth. Four teams of fifteen players each were formed, balanced by skill, age, and size as best as possible. Each player was outfitted with a color-coded shirt (somewhat ill-sized) and the program was launched. Over time, the number of teams grew to six, with seventeen players per team. By the late 1960s, the better players who met the age qualifications for Squirt, Pee Wee and Bantam were selected from the six teams. These boys also played on All-Star travel teams, although the number of leagues and teams was very limited. It is interesting to remember that the Montclair Rink was an “open air” facility; therefore, before playing many of the games, the players, coaches, and often fans, assisted the rink personnel in the removal of snow, sleet, and other elements to make the ice playable. Around 1973, a decision was made to restructure the MJHL. The goals were to expand the program to accommodate all boys and girls in Montclair (and the adjacent towns) who had a desire to play. The plan would eliminate the “waiting list,” have three separate and distinct tiers (beginners, house league, and all-stars), change the name to the “Montclair Hockey Club,” incorporate, create by-laws, and concentrate on enhancing the quality of the coaches, thereby enhancing the individual and team skills. The Montclair Hockey Club quickly grew to a large program serving 400 to 500 players. With improved coaching, better officiating, more administrators, expanded leagues and better competition, there was more enthusiasm expressed by the young people, who were learning and growing in an organized sport while “having fun.” Today, The Montclair Hockey Club programs are based at Floyd Hall Arena on the campus of Montclair State University. This state-of-the-art facility boasts two top notch rinks, comfortable and spacious locker rooms, a snack bar and offers year-round skating opportunities for players and their families. Over 600 players strong, the Club is proud to continue its strong tradition of offering quality ice-skating and hockey programs to boys and girls. | 
