Youngstown Phantoms

Frequently Asked Questions

What hockey league are the Youngstown Phantoms in?

The Youngstown Phantoms are a prominent team in the United States Hockey League (USHL), which is the top junior ice hockey league in the United States. The USHL is recognized as the premier level of junior hockey and is highly regarded for developing young talent, many of whom advance to NCAA Division I hockey or are drafted into the NHL. The league consists of teams from across the Midwest and serves as a crucial stepping stone for players aged 16-20 who aspire to play at higher levels. The Phantoms, based in Youngstown, Ohio, compete in regular season games and playoffs within the USHL, facing off against top junior teams from cities like Chicago, Omaha, and Sioux City. Their participation in the USHL places them among the elite in American junior hockey, providing fans with exciting, high-caliber action and showcasing the next generation of hockey stars.

Who owns the Youngstown Phantoms hockey team?

The Youngstown Phantoms hockey team is co-owned by Bruce Zoldan and Troy Loney. Bruce Zoldan is a prominent businessman and the founder of Phantom Fireworks, a leading fireworks retailer in the United States. He has been instrumental in supporting and promoting hockey in the Youngstown area. Troy Loney, a former NHL player who won two Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins, joined as a co-owner to bring his extensive experience and passion for the sport to the organization. Together, Zoldan and Loney have worked to build the Phantoms into a competitive and respected franchise within the USHL, focusing on both player development and community engagement. Their leadership ensures the team continues to thrive and provide high-quality hockey entertainment for fans in Youngstown and the surrounding regions.

What sports does Youngstown State have?

Youngstown State University offers a diverse range of sports as part of its athletic program, known as the Youngstown State Penguins. The university competes primarily in NCAA Division I as a member of the Horizon League for most sports and the Missouri Valley Football Conference for football. Popular sports at Youngstown State include football, basketball (men's and women's), baseball, softball, soccer, volleyball, track and field, cross country, golf, tennis, and swimming and diving. The football program is especially notable, having won multiple NCAA Division I-AA national championships. Youngstown State's commitment to athletics is evident through its competitive teams, modern facilities, and enthusiastic fan support. The university provides student-athletes with opportunities to excel both on the field and in the classroom, contributing to a vibrant campus sports culture and a strong presence in collegiate athletics throughout Ohio and the Midwest.

Does Youngstown State have a hockey team?

Youngstown State University does not currently have an official NCAA varsity men's or women's hockey team. While the university offers a wide array of varsity sports, ice hockey is not among them at the NCAA level. However, students interested in hockey can participate in club-level play. Youngstown State has an active club hockey team that competes against other college club teams regionally, providing opportunities for students to enjoy the sport in a competitive but less formal environment. The presence of the Youngstown Phantoms, a USHL team based in the city, ensures that hockey maintains a strong local presence and offers fans in Youngstown a chance to watch high-level junior hockey action. For those seeking NCAA hockey, nearby institutions in Ohio and surrounding states offer varsity competition, while Youngstown State continues to focus on its other established sports programs.

Who are the Youngstown Phantoms affiliated with?

The Youngstown Phantoms are an independent team and are not officially affiliated with any National Hockey League (NHL) or American Hockey League (AHL) organizations. As members of the USHL, their primary focus is on developing young players for advancement to higher levels of hockey, particularly NCAA Division I programs and the NHL Draft. While they do not serve as a farm team for any professional franchise, many Phantoms alumni have gone on to successful careers in both college and professional hockey. The Phantoms are known for their strong coaching and player development systems, which have produced NHL draft picks and collegiate standouts. Their independence allows them to work with a wide range of scouts and organizations, maximizing opportunities for their players to be noticed and recruited at the next level. This reputation makes the Youngstown Phantoms a key destination for aspiring hockey talent.