Who We Are

About
New Orleans Hockey

A nonprofit built for the Crescent City — rooted in the community, growing the game.

Our Mission

Grow the game.

New Orleans Hockey is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded by Ethan Guilbeau with a single mission: give hockey a permanent home in New Orleans.

Our Vision

Permanent ice in NOLA.

A dedicated ice rink for families, leagues, and youth programs. A city that doesn’t just play hockey — it lives it.

Our Story

Born on the River

It starts the way every great thing does — with people who refuse to wait for permission. A group of hockey players hauling gear onto a wharf at Crescent Park on the Mississippi River. Playing in 98-degree heat. 98% humidity.

When New Orleans Hockey announced five youth clinics, 55 kids signed up — in a city that’s never had organized hockey. The waitlist keeps growing.

Founder photo

“Hockey heats up New Orleans — the sport is finding a home in the Crescent City.”

— Fox 8 News, November 2025

I WANT THIS TO BE BIGGER THAN MYSELF. AND I WANT TO DO SOMETHING GOOD TO LEAVE A LEGACY BEHIND.
Ethan Guilbeau, Founder

Nonprofit Status

Verified & Accountable

Organization Type

501(c)(3) Public Charity

Donations are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. We file annual Form 990s with the IRS.

Federal EIN

99-2006130

Use this EIN for employer matching, DAF contributions, or grant applications.

Our Progress

How the Story Is Unfolding

The Beginning

Born on the River

A group of hockey players hauling gear onto a wharf at Crescent Park on the Mississippi River. Playing in 98-degree heat. 98% humidity. Losing about one in every five pucks straight into the river.

The Proof

Demand Is Real

When New Orleans Hockey announced five youth clinics, 55 kids signed up. In a city that's never had organized hockey. The waitlist keeps growing.

The Momentum

The Pieces Are Moving

Discussions underway with Pelican Park. Investor conversations. Grant applications. In February 2025, the NHL met with a group exploring New Orleans expansion.

The Dream

A Rink for New Orleans

A dedicated ice rink in the Crescent City. Year-round youth programs. Adult leagues. New Orleans doesn't just play hockey — it lives it.

New Orleans has the culture, the passion, and now the momentum. All it needs is the ice.