Meet Rick Walsh our new Girls Director

Let's welcome Rick Walsh, our new Girls Director who is relocating from Philadelphia and will take over our revamped girls program.

Rick has a strong playing background with the Philadelphia Little Flyers Tier 1 teams and playing Jr A with the Little Flyers in the EHL, before joining Framingham State University to play NCAA college hockey.

Rick also has 9 years coaching experience at a high level in Philadelphia and is the current coach of the Philadelphia little flyers 14u Girls team. Rick will be here for all Girls skating sessions!

Rick, what got you into coaching hockey?

I got into coaching because I had a passion for helping young players develop and pushing them toward their goals. I love the sport of hockey and want to pass that on to the players I coach so that maybe one day they will do the same. Hockey has given me a lot in life and it's my turn to give back. 

Why girl's hockey?

I had the pleasure of coaching a couple of girls early on in private skills skates, which showed me a lot. It showed me that the women's game has plenty of room to grow and that it needs coaches to invest in players at a younger age. I can not wait to see where the women's game is in 5-10 years. 

What is missing from Girl's hockey today?

Like I said before, I think girls' hockey is missing an investment in quality coaching at a younger age, to help develop players. Lots of quality coaches go to coach boys for numerous reasons and that has a direct effect on the girls' game. Girls' hockey is gaining quality but we need more of it. 

Why did you choose the Imperials and what is your goal for the Boston Imperials Girls Program?

When moving back to MA, I started looking at organizations to speak to, I met Dennis [founder] and after speaking with him I knew his vision was clear. We agreed on a lot of things and both believe that we can create a strong girls program. My goal is to create a program that is known for developing young players with the skills, confidence, work ethic, and accountability to move and succeed at the next level. 

"Help players build a love for the game, so much that one day they want to give back"