BREWSTER, NY -- Tyler Gobel’s rise through the Eastern Hockey League (EHL) exemplifies the league’s 'Ladder of Development', a pathway from the Eastern Hockey League Premier (EHLP) to the EHL, and onward to NCAA opportunities. The 2004-born forward from Linden, NJ, began his junior hockey career with the Union Jr. Thunder in the EHLP, where his strong play helped him take the next step to the EHL with the New York Apple Core.
In the 2022-23 season, Gobel excelled with Union, recording 18 goals and eight assists in 40 games. His former coach, Sam Tafel, head coach and general manager of the Thunder, spoke about Gobel’s influence on his program, saying, “Tyler Gobel was an integral part of defining our culture of hard work and development, as well as establishing UJT as an EHLP program that can advance players to the EHL. Where we are today, and all of our advancements, have a lot to do with Tyler Gobel, his leadership, and the great example he provides to all of our past, present, and future players.”
Gobel’s standout performance earned him a mid-season call-up to the EHL’s Apple Core, where he made his EHL debut. Reflecting on his time in the EHLP, Gobel shared, “As a first-year out of high school playing juniors, it was a great experience to play in the EHLP and its level of play, along with being part of a new program and getting to establish their culture.”
In the 2023-24 season, Gobel fully transitioned to the New York Apple Core in the EHL, playing 41 games and contributing three goals and eight assists. Now, as the only returning player on the team’s roster for the 2024-25 season, Gobel is already making an impact, having recorded two goals and four assists in just five games. Last year, the team had a strong run, finishing with a 34-11-1 record, but falling one game short of a Frozen Finals appearance. This year, Gobel’s leadership will be crucial as the team looks to build on that success with a new roster.
Head Coach and General Manager, Conall McNelis, appreciates Gobel’s influence, both on and off the ice, and the stability he brings to a new team.
“After I was hired in the middle of the summer, it was comforting knowing I already had Tyler Gobel locked into my lineup,” said McNelis. “What he provides to our team is one thing, but what makes him a great player is how he conducts himself off the ice as a leader. Tyler is a tremendous story of a player who trusted the process, working his way up the ladder to where he is today. Judging by the interest he garnered at the showcase last weekend, the next step to the NCAA will surely be confirmed soon.”
With his continued development and leadership, Gobel is ready to make a lasting impact in his final season with the Apple Core as he prepares for future NCAA opportunities.