The Mighty Docs Hockey Club Story
When the Mighty Docs Hockey Club formed in 1999, the primary aim was to let adults, who have had no or limited exposure to hockey, experience and enjoy the game with friends and colleagues. From year to year the roster has always reflected a wide range of ages and both genders. Over time the organization has also welcomed many highly skilled players who understand and embrace the mission and culture of the Mighty Docs. In addition to weekly scrimmages during the regular season and bi-monthly ice times during the “off season” they have competed against other adult teams from the Twin Cities, Rice Lake and Rochester and sent 3 teams over 2 years to the Pond Hockey Championship series in Eagle River, WI. The Mighty Docs also regularly participate in and sponsor the annual Sisko Tournament in Altoona, WI. Looking ahead, the team is preparing to participate in an international tournament in Füssen, Germany in 2026.
From the inception of the team the motto has been, “It’s More Than Just the Game” and this group has certainly committed to this mission. The organization has always maintained a strictly enforced no-contact style of play focused on sportsmanship, friendship, and respect for the game. The causes supported by the Mighty Docs are diverse, including the local Altoona Youth Hockey Association where they have raised money by playing 5 charity games against the Minnesota NHL Alumni and sponsoring 4 Beer Festivals (over $45,000 donated). In addition the team sponsors a $500 scholarship every year for the AYHA to use to help young players develop and improve their skills at local camps and clinics.
The Mighty Docs have also donated countless volunteer hours to improve local hockey facilities, including refurbishing the Altoona locker rooms, bleachers, benches, and shooting lane. They have typically maintained a strong showing for the annual spring rink teardown and fall setup. For the last two years they have played a role in supporting a year end tournament for a local player who died young and left a family in need.
Other causes supported by the team include the Huntington’s Disease Association and Habitat for Humanity. They also support the Eau Claire Youth Hockey Association by contributing to Blue Line Club events and the recent National Championship UW-Eau Claire Men’s Hockey program by serving on the Center Ice Club board and taking an active role in fundraising support.
In 2025, the Mighty Docs expanded their community involvement by officially joining the Lions Club organization as the Mighty Docs Hockey Altoona Lions Branch Club. Members now regularly volunteer at community events including Cinder City Days and the Lions Fishing Contest.
But the biggest cause for the Mighty Docs is the fight against cancer by supporting the American Cancer Society. Even before one of the founding members was diagnosed with what turned out to be a fatal cancer, the Mighty Docs had a team on the Relay for Life. This is an ongoing and core effort for the team and one we've raised over $100,000 for. Over the years the team has been recognized at the Gold, Bronze, and Platinum levels of funding. To date the Mighty Docs have raised over $200,000 for their charities and causes.
The Mighty Docs have also built lasting friendships and traditions away from the rink, including annual hockey trips to Las Vegas focused on camaraderie, competition, and team bonding. As the organization continues to grow, a second generation of Mighty Docs players has now begun joining the team, continuing the tradition and culture established more than two decades ago.
Truly, for a team celebrating a journey of 26 years of fun, development, friendship, and contribution; It is more than just the game!
