If you’ve read this blog for about 10 seconds, you probably know it’s very America-centered. While the United States can lay claim to the “Best of” a lot of things, hockey isn’t quite there yet. That’s why I decided to start a blog that focused on all things American hockey.

The three years I spent working for USA Hockey allowed me to learn a lot about the game in our country in a lot of ways. I’ve kind of been able to see where it’s been, where it is now and where it’s going, or at the very least where it can go.

Truth is, hockey is in a really great spot in America and it’s only going to get better as those of us that love it so much spread it to other people. That’s why, on Friday, July 8, I will be unveiling my first ever “State of American Hockey” post. We’ll take a look at the season that was, with an eye towards the future. I can’t wait to share my thoughts with you and of course would love to hear yours. So make sure to check that out on Friday.

Until then, I wish you a very happy Independence Day. Hope you all celebrate safely and enjoy this great American tradition. Don’t forget to remember all of our great men and women in service and those who have struggled to make this country great throughout our relatively young history.

For your enjoyment, here’s a few links to the extra-American posts in the last several months at The United States of Hockey:

Raw Numbers: USA Hockey Surpasses 500,000 Registered Players in 2010-11: An incredible feat that made me as proud as ever to be a hockey fan in the U.S.

Raw Numbers: Hockey’s Growth in the United States 1990-2010: Looking back at the growth over 20 years, with some really exciting numbers.

Mr. USA Hockey — A look at why Ryan Kesler may be on his way to being the posterchild for USA Hockey.

Tim Thomas: American Hockey Hero — Tim Thomas had a magical run to the Stanley Cup, but there’s plenty more reasons he’s one of the best Americans to suit up in the NHL.

Doug Weight’s USA Hockey Legacy — A look back at Doug Weight’s USA Hockey career, with some reminiscing of the 1996 World Cup of Hockey.

Rafalski’s Place in USA Hockey History — A look back at Rafalski’s USA Hockey career and my ranking of the Top 10 American defensemen in NHL history. Looking at it again, I really screwed the pooch on not putting Rod Langway a lot higher. I feel shame.

2010: A Banner Year for American Hockey — Remembering a year in which USA Hockey won WJC gold, U18 gold and Olympic silver. A truly incredible calendar year.

USA-Canada: End of Days — My tongue-in-cheek preview for USA-Canada semifinal at the World Juniors. Sadly, the U.S. effort did not match the enthusiasm of this post. It’s worth a click if only for the video at the end.

It’s been a lot of fun bringing many of the American hockey highlights to you over the last seven months. I’ll keep it going as long as you keep on reading. Don’t forget to check back on Friday for the State of American Hockey post. As always, thanks for stopping by the blog. Happy Fourth!

Aw, heck… just because.