In 1996, USA Hockey launched a revolutionary new initiative called the National Team Development Program, based in Ann Arbor, Mich. In its 17th season of play in 2013-14, the goal of this full-time development program is to prepare student-athletes under the age of 18 for participation on U.S. National Teams and success in their future hockey careers.

The program is composed of two squads – the U.S. National Under-18 and Under-17 Teams. The Under-17 Team competes in the United States Hockey League and also participates in three international events annually.

The Ann Arbor Ice Cube, a first-class facility consisting of three ice sheets, locker rooms, offices, a training area and weight room is home to the NTDP. Over 30 home games are played at “The Cube” each season and tickets range from $5 for students / seniors to $7 for adults, with special discounts for youth hockey players.

Annually, the NTDP averages over 60 former players skating in the NHL. Famous alumni include Jimmy Howard, Patrick Kane, Ryan Suter, Phil Kessel, Ryan Kesler, James van Riemsdyk and Jack Johnson. Nine players on the 2014 Olympic Team once played for the NTDP right here in Ann Arbor.