built for the next level
A connected development pathway. Dedicated hockey leadership. A commitment to preparing Colorado players for what comes next.
The Colorado Thunderbirds Development League program brings together purposeful coaching, elite competition, and a coordinated approach to player development and advancement. Our 15U and 17U Development League teams anchor the pathway, while our 18U program offers an important additional route. This role allows players who develop later, need more time to grow, or are pursuing opportunities to join or be called up to the 17U team when eligible. These players are still on the path to play high level junior hockey from our 18U team.
one organization. one development pathway.
We emphasize skill, hockey IQ, competitive habits, accountability and individual growth. Advancement is never guaranteed; it is pursued through preparation, progress and performance.
13O Tier 1 14U Tier 1
Build skills, hockey IQ and competitive habits through age-appropriate development.
15U DL
Elevate pace, accountability and individual development through elite competition.
17U DL
Prepare for the next level through purposeful development, elite competition, exposure and advancement relationships.
Build the skills, habits and readiness to pursue junior hockey opportunities.
18U Tier 1
Continue developing through high-level competition, with additional time to grow and prepare for the next opportunity.
Eligible players may earn opportunities to join or be called up to 17U DL, or advance directly to junior hockey.
Junior Hockey Opportunities
Prepare to advance through individual growth, competitive habits and consistent performance.
15U and 17U compete in the Development League. 13O, 14U and 18U compete in Tier 1 hockey. Pathways illustrate potential progression, not guaranteed placement. All movement is subject to eligibility, performance and available opportunities.
meet our hockey leadership team.
Jordan Pietrus
President of Hockey Operations
Pietrus leads the Thunderbirds' hockey strategy, coaching direction, organizational development and key relationships with USA Hockey and other hockey partners. He provides overall hockey leadership while empowering the DL staff to execute the program day to day.
Ryan Seavy
General Manager, DL
17U DL Head Coach
EXPERIENCED LEADERSHIP. BUILT FOR THE NEXT LEVEL.
Seavy brings a player's and coach's perspective to the journey from youth hockey toward junior and college opportunities. His hockey background includes junior experience in the NAHL, AJHL, and EJHL, and collegiate hockey at Middlebury College. His coaching experience across multiple levels gives him an understanding of the demands players face as they advance.
As Development League General Manager, Seavy will lead recruiting, roster planning, player advancement, coaching coordination, and day-to-day hockey operations while serving as 17U DL Head Coach. His role puts an experienced hockey leader at the center of the Thunderbirds' advancement efforts.
Mike Davies
Player Development Coordinator
15U DL Head Coach
FROM THE DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY TO NATIONAL CHAMPION.
Davies brings experience from the St. Louis Jr. Blues AAA, USHL, University of Denver, and two seasons of professional hockey. A member of Denver’s 2017 NCAA National Championship team, he earned NCHC All-Rookie honors, served as an alternate captain, and twice received the team’s top defensive player award. As head coach of the 15U Development League team, Davies will also collaborate with coaches at younger age levels to identify talent, align development priorities, and build the skills, habits, and accountability players need to advance.
what you need to know.
Which teams participate?
The 15U and 17U teams compete in the Development League. The Thunderbirds’ 18U team offers a complementary development and advancement pathway, including potential movement to 17U where eligible and opportunities to progress directly to junior hockey. The 18U team is not a DL team.
How are players evaluated?
Coaches consider ability, development trajectory, competitive habits and team needs. Contact our hockey leadership for current evaluation and tryout procedures.
Who should families contact?
Ryan Seavy is the primary contact for Development League recruiting and hockey inquiries, with Mike Davies coordinating 15U and younger-player leads. Email Ryan or complete our player interest form.
Does the Development League guarantee advancement?
No. Advancement is earned through preparation, progress and performance. Placement depends on player development, eligibility, team needs and available opportunities.
Become a TBIRD
Fill out our Recruitment form if you are interested in being recruited to the Thunderbirds!