The City of Elmira will come alive with hockey pride on Wednesday as the community gathers to celebrate Elmira Aviators Day — a special event honoring the growth and expansion of the Elmira Aviators hockey program.
The Aviators were brought to life by Marc and Tracey Stemerman for their debut season in 2024 and play in the North American Hockey League at the Lecom Event Center in Downtown Elmira. This year, the Stemerman organization has expanded hockey to include the Buzz (relocated from Binghamton this season) and the U-16 & U-18 Academy Teams.
These fine young athletes will be playing at the Center and on the road, staying at Elmira College and fully integrating themselves into the fabric of Elmira and the surrounding community.
This expansion shows their commitment to providing opportunities for kids at every stage of their hockey journey. Whether they’re just learning to skate or chasing a dream of playing at the junior and collegiate levels, the Aviators program ensures there’s a place for them to grow right here in Elmira.
Elmira Aviators Day will feature opportunities to meet players at Wisner Market from 10-2, a day of celebration proclamation from Mayor Dan Mandell at 11:30 and a community celebration of the program’s mission: to develop athletes, inspire fans, and strengthen Elmira’s identity as a hockey town.
The expansion highlights not only the Aviators’ competitive success but also the role of hockey in building character, teamwork, and community pride. With the addition of higher-level junior teams alongside developmental youth programs, the Elmira Aviators are creating one of the most comprehensive hockey pipelines in the region.
For more information about Elmira Aviators Day or to learn how to get involved with the program, please visit elmiraaviatorsnahl.com or follow the Aviators on social media.
