The Lou

The Louis Astorino Ice Arena, commonly referred to as "The Lou," is a hockey rink located at Hamden High School in Hamden, Connecticut. It is named in honor of Louis "Lou" Astorino, the legendary head coach of the Hamden High School boys’ hockey team from 1960 to 1987, who led the Green Dragons to 11 state championships and a national title in 1976.

In addition to serving as our home in HYHA the rink serves as the home venue for the Hamden High School boys’ and girls’ hockey teams.

Located at 595 Mix Ave, Hamden, CT 06514, The Lou is equipped with multiple locker rooms, seating for spectators, & the one of the best rink staff in the state. In 2024 the rink opened the newly renovated snack bar. On most Saturdays from September through February you'll find HYHA playing home games from 07:00 AM through the afternoon.

Louis "Lou" Astorino was the legendary head coach of the Hamden High School boys’ hockey team in Connecticut during the 1960s and 1970s. He coached the Green Dragons from 1960 to 1987, transforming the program into a powerhouse with a military-style approach rooted in his experience as a Marine in the 1940s. His tenure was marked by remarkable success, including 10 state titles between 1964 and 1976, a national title in 1976, and an 11th state title in 1986. His teams achieved an unparalleled record, winning 99 out of 100 games from 1970 to 1975, and his overall winning percentage was an impressive 73.3%.

Astorino, who passed away on June 19, 2006, at age 77 after battling Parkinson’s disease, was known for his strict, disciplined coaching style, earning him descriptions like “icon,” “institution,” and “legend.” His military background influenced his “my way or the highway” philosophy, with grueling practices that built a winning tradition. He was a master motivator, famously stoking the Hamden-West Haven rivalry by sending fake letters to his players, purportedly from West Haven opponents, to fire them up. Former players, like then-Hamden mayor Craig Henrici (1968–71) and coach Bill Verneris (1975–77), praised his commitment and ability to turn boys into men, noting his national impact on high school hockey. Astorino also played for Hamden High in 1942, captained the team, and later earned “All East Goalie” honors at American International College. The Louis Astorino Ice Arena at Hamden High School, named in his honor, remains a testament to his legacy.