Mountain Mayhem: Aspen Junior Hockey Stirling Cup

Aspen Junior Hockey celebrated the 23rd Annual Stirling Cup over the weekend of Sept. 13-15, starting with a kickoff party themed around casino games, dinner, and dancing to beats by DJ Naka G at Buttermilk Mountain Lodge. On Sept. 14, guests took part in guided fly fishing followed by socializing at Zane’s Tavern in Willits afterward, then The Stirling Cup Golf Tournament hosted by Aspen Golf Club closed out the weekend.

“I believe that it may be the longest-running local fundraiser in Aspen,” said Jody Stirling, who founded the event with her sons Brandon and Matt in honor of Stirling Cooper, her late husband and the boys’ father. 

“As you know, our community is so amazing at supporting and giving!” she continued. “Stirling was a coach of youth sports, believed in having fun, and wanted as many kids to be able to participate as possible. The Stirling Cup was started to honor Stirling by some of our best friends 24 years ago. I believe we raised over $100,000 this year. Not bad for a small-town hockey club! Brandon’s company Cooper Street Capital is now one of our main sponsors. I am so grateful that The Stirling Cup has been a way to keep Stirling’s memory alive. He was an amazing dad, husband, and person.” 

“For over 50 years, Aspen Junior Hockey has been an integral part of the Aspen community, fostering a culture of respect, character, and community for generations of young athletes,” noted Harlan Pratt, executive director of the organization. “The Stirling Cup is a testament to the rich heritage of youth hockey in Aspen, the love Stirling had for the game, and its impact on so many lives. Aspen Junior Hockey has been one of Aspen’s most beloved winter youth sports programs. Through hockey, athletes develop character, perseverance, and passion for the game. Not only do youth evolve as athletes, but Aspen Junior Hockey works to build them into becoming contributing citizens in the community. We believe every child deserves an opportunity to experience the joy of playing hockey.”

To keep the Aspen Leafs/Aspen Junior Hockey program thriving, membership fees and donations help cover costs for equipment and training. In the 2023-2024 season, Aspen Junior Hockey provided more than $25,000 in scholarships toward membership costs and coached more than 200 youth. With the goal to continue increasing scholarships, Aspen Junior Hockey aims to make the sport accessible to every child who dreams of stepping onto the ice, ensuring that no youth athlete is left behind. 

Support Aspen Junior Hockey by visiting aspenjuniorhockey.com.