Yarmouth, Maine, October 1, 2026:

Following a national search, North Yarmouth Academy (NYA) has named Erin Hamlen head coach of its Girls Ice Hockey Program.

The Panthers are members of the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC), one of the nation’s premier prep school hockey leagues, and are the reigning Vaillancourt Conference Champions, having captured the title in each of the past three seasons.

Hamlen brings an exceptional combination of coaching, playing, recruiting, and leadership experience to NYA. She joins NYA after 11 seasons as head coach of the Division I Merrimack College women's hockey program. She also helped establish the women's hockey program at the University of New England and spent a decade as an assistant coach at the University of New Hampshire.

Her coaching experience also extends to national and professional levels. Hamlen served as a coach with USA Hockey’s National Team program, including coaching the inaugural U18 USA Hockey National Team to a gold medal, and she served as an associate head coach with the Boston Blades of the Canadian Women’s Hockey League.

Coach Hamlen also brings an impressive playing career to NYA. A four-year goaltender at the University of New Hampshire, she went on to represent Team USA for approximately a decade, competing in five World Championships.

“I am very excited to welcome someone of Erin’s caliber and experience to North Yarmouth Academy,” said NYA Head of School Ben Jackson. “Her extraordinary background as a Division I head coach, national team coach, and elite player brings a depth of knowledge and perspective that will be an incredible asset to our girls hockey program. I am confident that Erin will build on the program’s strong foundation while providing our student-athletes with an exceptional coach, mentor, and leader.”

Hamlen's appointment comes as NYA continues to strengthen its position as one of New England's premier girls ice hockey programs, while expanding opportunities for student-athletes on and off the ice.

Beyond her success in hockey, Hamlen brings extensive experience in student-athlete development and leadership. Her work with athletes, coaches, and teams at multiple levels will strengthen both NYA athletics and the broader school community.

 “I am grateful to the North Yarmouth Academy community for welcoming me into an environment where I can continue to be a passionate member of an athletic department and academic institution,” said Hamlen. “The Girls Ice Hockey Program is a special part of the NYA community, and I am looking forward to building on the successes of the past and carving out a path leading to future championships.  Go Panthers!”

In addition to leading the girls ice hockey program, Hamlen will serve as a senior associate in the Admission Office and help develop leadership opportunities for student-athletes and coaches across the athletic department.