In the heart of Ridgefield, Melissa Miller, a dedicated public school teacher, mom, and board member of the Ridgefield Amateur Hockey Association (RAHA), is breaking new ground for young female athletes. This fall, Melissa filled the roster for Ridgefield’s first 8U girls travel hockey team, a momentous achievement for the local hockey community and a dream she had been nurturing for her daughter and other young girls who share a love for the game.
For Melissa, hockey is more than just a sport; it's a space for girls to build lifelong friendships, learn healthy competition, and gain confidence on and off the ice. "I wanted to create a team where my daughter and other girls her age could grow together in a supportive, competitive environment," Melissa shared. Her vision is now a reality, and Ridgefield has its first travel hockey team for 8-year-old girls, paving the way for future generations of young athletes.
The journey began with a desire to provide a space specifically for girls to play against other female teams in the area, something Melissa felt was missing. While co-ed teams are common, she saw the value in creating an environment tailored to girls, offering them a chance to compete, bond, and develop as players in a unique, empowering setting.
Melissa’s love for skating and hockey has deep roots. She began her journey on the ice as a competitive figure skater in singles and synchronized skating, but later traded in her figure skates for hockey skates. Her experience playing with the Quarry Cats Women’s Team in Montclair, NJ, and her time coaching skaters of all ages gave her the foundation and passion for helping young players thrive. She also worked with the New York Rangers as a member of the On Ice Blue Crew and as a youth hockey camp instructor.
Joining Melissa on this journey is coach Ashley Ahlstrin, another strong, inspiring female leader in the Ridgefield hockey community. Ashley's experience and passion for the game have made her a role model for young athletes, offering them not only guidance on the ice but also a vision of what's possible for women in sports. Together, Melissa and Ashley are shaping the next generation of female hockey players, showing them the value of hard work, teamwork, and resilience.
RAHA, known for empowering young athletes, is thrilled to support this new initiative. The association’s mission is clear: to foster a vibrant community where players feel valued and supported while nurturing their athletic and personal development. With Melissa’s leadership and passion, the 8U girls' travel hockey team will do just that, offering a unique opportunity for girls to challenge themselves, make new friends, and fall in love with the game.
For families like Melissa’s who are looking to get their daughters involved in hockey, this team is a gem. It provides young girls in Ridgefield and surrounding areas a place to play and grow together while competing against other girls’ teams in the region.
Melissa's story is a shining example of how one person’s passion can spark change, opening doors for young athletes who might not have had the opportunity before. As the team takes to the ice this season, the hope is to inspire more girls to join the world of hockey, knowing they have a place to belong and excel.
Learn more about Ridgefield Amateur Hockey Association and register for programs at RAHA’s website https://www.raha.hockey/