The Connecticut Clippers program is a non-profit organization founded in 1996 by Bob Crawford.Bob played ten professional seasons, including seven seasons in the NHL with the New York Rangers, St. Louis Blues and the Hartford Whalers.
Bob is President of the Connecticut Clippers AAA hockey program of the Metro Atlantic and New England Elite Hockey Leagues, the Connecticut Clippers Junior B team of the Metropolitan Junior Hockey League and a member of hockey's legendary Crawford family. Bob is also an owner and governor of the Springfield, IL Junior Blues of the NAHL - North America's premiere Junior A hockey league.
The Junior B Clippers won the 2000-2001 national championship and in 1999-2000 they finished 3rd.
Commitment to overall development of the student athlete has always been a key to Bob's philosophy and success. The Clippers program is dedicated to pursuing excellence in the classroom, on the ice, and in society.
We are committed to developing hockey players without ignoring the need to develop socially responsible young citizens and athletes who will seek a quality education as a result of their endeavors.
The Connecticut Junior Clippers have advanced numerous players to the college ranks including the University of Maine, Fairfield University, and Division III powerhouses such as Middlebury and Oswego State. In 2002, players signed with Framingham State, Army, Skidmore, Newman, and Southern Maine.
The entire coaching staff is under Bob's direction and the experienced staff is USA Hockey certified. The coaches undergo constant review for the quality and depth of coaching skills at every level. Several focused skill sessions are incorporated throughout the season and are run by the top-notch coaching staff.
The Clippers home rink is the Champions Skating Center in Cromwell, Connecticut.
