If you’ve heard of the Hershey Cubs hockey team, you might think they are the little siblings of the Hershey Bears. But the truth is, the Cubs are carving out their own special story—one filled with heart, hope, and hometown pride.

     The Cubs belong to the USPHL (United States Premier Hockey League), a league built on dreams and the promise of helping young players grow. While they share a warm partnership with the Bears—often joining forces at community events and sporting a similar look—the Cubs are determined to shine in their own right. They want to be known as a club that’s just as thrilling and full of promise as their famous neighbors. 

     It all began in 2021, thanks to legendary Hershey Bears' coach Bruce Boudreau and his wife, Crystal. Bruce’s love for Hershey runs deep, and after an incredible career with the Bears (2005-2007) and successful NHL coaching adventures subsequently, he felt a calling to bring junior hockey back to “The Barn.” Hershey isn’t just a place on the map for Bruce—it’s home, and he wanted to give back by creating a team where young athletes could chase their dreams.

     The Cubs are a vibrant mix of 16–20-year-olds from near and far—local kids, plus players from Texas, New York, Canada, and even Europe. For hometown hopefuls, it’s a chance to be part of something elite and meaningful, right in their backyard. For others, it’s a journey to a town where hockey and chocolate are woven into the fabric of life. Every player is chasing a future, hoping to climb the ranks and make their mark. 

     Since their first season, Bruce, Crystal and his dedicated staff have built a team that feels more like a family. The Cubs enjoy top-notch gear, personalized lockers, and the best health care, thanks to Penn State Health. In-game trainers and immediate medical care aren’t just perks—they’re signs of how much these young athletes are valued. It’s a level of care and professionalism that sets the Cubs apart and makes them the envy of other teams.

     The Hershey Cubs give back to the local community in many ways, enforcing the ‘halo’ of the Cub in their logo in actions, good deeds and positive impact in the town they call home.

     Hershey’s hockey history is legendary, and bringing the game back to the iconic Arena is both a challenge and a tribute to the past. The echoes of former players, coaches, and fans linger in the air, reminding everyone that Hershey isn’t just a chocolate town, it’s a hockey town. The Cubs are more than just a team, they’re the start of something new, a bridge to the future of the AHL and NHL, and a beacon for generations of hockey lovers to come.