The SHL is the first hockey league in the state to deliver a weekly podcast, where hockey junkies will talk everything Scholastic Hockey League, and more.

A brand new SHL Network Podcast launched in mid-September, hosted by Luke Jorden and Dylan Ward.

“We will review every week in the SHL and make predictions on what’s ahead,” Jorden said. “Talking to players and coaches (on the podcast) also will give a behind the scenes feel for what’s going on. We also have an ‘Outside the SHL’ segment where we cover what’s going on across the state in high school hockey.

            “My main goal is to have fun. I enjoy talking about the sport I’ve loved since I was 4. Dylan and I want to get better every week (as co-hosts) and (with) the quality of the podcast.

            “I think our variety and personalities will shine once we really start to (gel).”

            Jorden, 19, who lives in Palatine, graduated from Palatine High School a few months ago. He played for the co-op Chiefs, including two full varsity seasons, and was an IHSHL North-Central All-Star Game MVP last season and the team’s top scorer. A center who played his youth hockey for the Rolling Meadows Renegades, Jorden scored a game-winning goal as a sophomore in the fifth overtime.

            His skating past will, no doubt, help on a microphone, particularly with conference and knowledge, he said. “Knowing who (is) talented and speaking of in-game experience is insightful, too.”

The SHL Network Podcast will regularly feature guests, including players, coaches, others associated with the SHL and hockey in general. All episodes will be recorded and can be found on the SHL Network’s YouTube channel, the same location for all SHL broadcasts.

Jorden said the 2024-25 SHL season anchors around New Trier Green, the back-to-back state champions – and can any of the 10 other SHL teams knock the Trevians off their perch.

“If teams can compete with New Trier, which they just about have, we could be in for one of the most evenly balanced seasons all around in SHL history,” Jorden said. “Young teams like Stevenson, Carmel and others (may) make big jumps with their returning roster.

“New Trier stands above the rest. Until something (or someone) proves me wrong, I’m sticking with them.”

Jorden said the level of play this season appears to be as competitive as ever.

PREDICTIONS

SHL Scholastic Cup Winner

Luke Jorden: New Trier Green

Ross Forman: New Trier Green

Darkhorse To Win The Scholastic Cup

Luke Jorden: Carmel

Ross Forman: York

Top Forward

Luke Jorden: Luke Chiu, New Trier Green

Ross Forman: Garrett Chong, New Trier Green

Top Defenseman

Luke Jorden: Ryan Mulvey, Glenbrook South

Ross Forman: Mack Klein, Loyola Gold

Top Goalie

Luke Jorden: Michael Reyderman

Ross Forman: Charlie Trapp, Loyola Gold