BEAST JOIN NAPHL FOR 25/26 SEASON!

SOUTHEAST BEAST HOCKEY CLUB JOINS NORTH AMERICAN PREP HOCKEY LEAGUE FOR 2025–26 SEASON

For the first time, a team from Knoxville, Tennessee is taking a major step forward in national league play to elevate and challenge local players on a broader stage. The Southeast Beast Hockey Club is proud to announce its official entry into the North American Prep Hockey League (NAPHL) for the 2025–2026 season — marking a bold new era for high-performance hockey in the region.

Southeast Beast will field teams at the 14U and 16U levels, adding two highly competitive age groups to the NAPHL mix for the 2025–2026 season.

Led by a passionate and experienced staff, the Southeast Beast program is built on the core belief that players reach their full potential when they are consistently challenged, supported, and developed the right way. The club’s mission is captured in its powerful motto — Learn. Develop. Excel.

“This league is an ideal fit for our players and our philosophy,” said John Thiel, Director of Hockey Operations. “We’re extremely grateful for the opportunity to join the NAPHL and give Southeast athletes access to high-level competition, structured development, and real exposure to scouts and programs across the U.S. and Canada.”

Throughout the season, Beast teams will compete in NAPHL Showcase Tournaments and will also have the opportunity to play additional league games and exhibition matchups against other NAPHL members. Each team can participate in up to six showcases, with four games per event.

The Southeast Beast model emphasizes skill development, hockey IQ, and physical preparation, with weekly training that includes structured practices, off-ice development, and team video review sessions. Coaches will also work to educate families on the steps necessary for players to advance in today’s competitive hockey landscape.

“Our goal is to help players move on to Junior hockey and, ultimately, NCAA programs,” Thiel added. “What Anthony Miele has created with the North American Prep Hockey League is exactly what aspiring players need. The structure, visibility, and competition are all there.”

Southeast Beast Hockey isn’t just about playing more games — it’s about preparing athletes for the next level, instilling habits that last, and building a foundation for future success.

“We want players who are hungry to grow,” Thiel said. “If they’re willing to put in the work, we’ll give them the tools. That’s what ‘Learn. Develop. Excel.’ means to us — and we can’t wait to bring that vision to life in the NAPHL.”