The Fox Cities Forge is set to enter the North American 3 Hockey League this September, bringing a fresh junior program to the ice at the Appleton Family Ice Center.
A new frontier for Wisconsin hockey
Co‑owned by former Green Bay Gamblers coach Mark Mazzoleni, the franchise blends hockey acumen with a clear mission: to nurture talent from across Wisconsin and provide a clear pathway to higher‑level junior and college competition.
Mazzoleni has assembled a partnership that includes Darrell LaCrosse of Robinson Inc. and Jeff Lindemann, owner of Lee Beverage in Oshkosh and coach of the Neenah/Hortonville/Menasha high school team, ensuring a strong local foundation.
The venue itself has undergone a makeover, featuring a brand‑new sheet of ice, modern locker rooms and a vibrant jumbotron that promises an immersive experience for fans seeking close‑up action.
With a roster of roughly 14 players and more set to join, the coaching staff, led by Logan Wilt, is actively scouting prospects, including standout performers at the Global Showcase in Las Vegas.
Mazzoleni stresses that Wisconsin harbors skilled players who have been waiting for an opportunity, and the Forge intends to give them that chance to compete and grow.
The team will also benefit from an affiliation agreement with the Janesville Jets of the NAHL, creating a direct developmental link that can accelerate player progression.
Other newcomers to the league this season include the Garden City Gamblers in New Jersey, the Oklahoma City Warriors and the Phoenix Inferno, expanding the league’s footprint across the country.
Mazzoleni’s vision extends beyond wins; it is about building a sustainable pipeline that supports high school athletes in pursuing their hockey dreams while keeping talent rooted in the state.
As the Forge prepares for its inaugural season, the excitement is palpable among players, coaches and the broader Wisconsin hockey community, all eager to see the next generation of talent take the ice.