The North American Hockey League (NAHL) is a junior ice hockey league in the United States, established in 1975. It serves as a developmental platform for young players, typically aged 16 to 20, aiming to advance to higher levels of competition, including college hockey and professional leagues. The NAHL consists of teams from various regions, primarily in the Midwest and South. The league operates under the governance of the USA Hockey and is recognized as one of the top junior leagues in North America. Players in the NAHL have the opportunity to showcase their skills and gain exposure to scouts from colleges and professional teams, making it a crucial step in their hockey careers.