Four high school students from a Stowe hockey school—two of them native Vermonters—wore United States jerseys in an international tournament earlier in April.

The U.S. team won silver medals in the International Ice Hockey Federation World Women’s Under-18 tournament, losing to Canada 5-4 in an overtime game April 3.

“It was definitely one of the best experiences I have ever had and been a part of,” said Amanda Pelkey, who also played on the team last winter. “Wearing the jersey again this year, it felt really good.”

The team beat Japan, Finland, and the Czech Republic, and Sweden before the match against Canada.

“I thought we played very well,” said Pelkey, who is from Montpelier. “Each game we got better and more competitive with other teams…. I think overall we definitely came together and played well as a team.”

Brittany Ammerman, who was also on the team last year, was the team captain. Throughout the tournament, Ammerman scored five goals and three assists.

“Its always a great feeling any time you get to wear a USA jersey,” Ammerman said. It’s a privilege you work really hard for.”

Vermonter Melissa Bizzari of Stowe and Zoe Hickel, originally from Alaska, were also on the team. All four girls are forwards.

Pelkey had seven assists during the tournament, Bizarri had a goal and five assists, and Hickel had two goals and two assists.

The girls were four of 20 players named to the 2010 U.S. Women’s National Under-18 Hockey Team.

“It’s an incredibly competitive process… the 20 girls that get picked are pretty special,” said Bill Driscoll, head coach at North American Hockey Academy. “We’re pretty proud of them.”

Driscoll said the U-18 team is often a first step toward playing on the U.S. Olympic team.

“They obviously have a very high skill level, and they all bring different things to the table,” Driscoll said. “Some are pure goal scorers, some have incredible vision and can help move the puck.”

 

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