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NEWCOMER THRILLS 56 // OCTOBER 2026 USAHOCKEYMAGAZINE.COM I f Hundreds of veterans come together every year to cele- brate their love of the sport at the USA Hockey Long Drink Warrior Classic. This year, three teams played in their first Warrior Classic and learned just how special this event has been since its debut. Members of the Boston Warriors, Flower City Warriors and New England Battalion converged Sept. 24-27 at the Utica University Nexus Center in New York for the 2026 event. They were among 20 teams and more than 250 players who competed and bonded at the event. Since 2016, disabled U.S. military veterans have skated in the Warrior Classic. They share a deep bond known only to those who have worn their nation's uniform. "Overall, it was a great tournament," said Jason Callahan of the New England Battalion. "You're able to see that sense of belonging again. Let's face it — we're all veterans. We all had that team spirit and camaraderie when we were in the military. "Then obviously when you get out, we all go looking for that exact same environment again. Not knowing what we're walking into was obviously a little apprehensive, but once we're in there, PHOTOS BY Carr Action Shots Photography Players From Three Different Debut Teams Raved About The Camaraderie And Competition At This Year's Warrior Classic by Bob Reinert DIGITAL BONUS CONTENT