Cael Dolph has spent time out east at prep school and skating for the Colorado Thunderbirds developing his game for the junior hockey ranks.

This coming season, the Littleton native will suit up for the USPHL’s Richmond Generals.

“I went to a showcase for Air Force and shortly after the camp, I got a text and had a great talk over the phone with (Richmond coach) RC Lyke which led me to choose the Richmond Generals to be the destination for me,” said Dolph. “Obviously, the end goal in my career is to play college, and knowing that I’m in a good place with coaches who move so many kids makes me feel confident they will help me do the same.

“The success that the Richmond Generals have had in the past years gives me lots of excitement. I am very thrilled to leave home and continue the grind. I have been working hard this summer to become a more rounded player.”

During the 2021-22 season, Dolph played at the Frederick Gunn School (formerly the Gunnery) in Connecticut.

“Our team was great,” Dolph said. “We had great kids, great coaches, and a great environment that helped us have success and take us to a championship. Personally, I had a decent year getting gritty in front of the net and playing physical, but I am feeling confident this year that I will put up lots of points. 

“Being away at a prep school really helped me learn to live on my own and take responsibilities into my own hands. I feel that will help a lot along the way at Richmond.”

Back home in Colorado, Dolph spent his Squirt season with the Littleton Hawks before moving on to the Thunderbirds for 11U through 14U, then going to the Gunnery before returning to the Thunderbirds for 16U.

“Coach Brian TenEyck was a great influence with Littleton,” Dolph said. “I came back to the T-Birds when I was 16 and played for coach David Clarkson. He was a huge help in my process, and he has definitely made me the player I am today. It’s also hard to not mention Milan Hejduk, who was one of the best role models that a young kid like me could have. He was a great person and a great coach.”

Ready to head to Virginia for his first season in the USPHL, Dolph has his eyes on the future.

“I want to dominate every league that I play in,” said Dolph. “Whatever opportunity arises, I will make the most of it. Long term, I want to be playing college hockey in the next couple of years and hopefully hockey and my academics can help me get into a school that leads to more opportunities.” 

Photo/Phil Dutton

— Matt Mackinder

(August 11, 2022)