The United States Premier Hockey League (USPHL) is proud to recognize former goaltender Levente Hegedus, who is currently representing Hungary at the 2026 IIHF World Championship in Zurich, Switzerland.
Hegedus, a member of the Oilers’ 2024-25 USPHL Premier National Championship team, has quickly transitioned from championship success in the USPHL Premier to competing against some of the top hockey players in the world in the IIHF’s top international division.
During the 2024-25 season with Vernal, Hegedus posted a perfect 27-0-0 regular season record, along with a 1.86 goals-against average and a .930 save percentage. He followed that performance with another strong postseason run, going 6-1 in the playoffs with a 1.86 GAA and .927 save percentage while helping lead the Oilers to the USPHL Premier National Championship.
Now, just months later, the Budapest, Hungary native is competing on hockey’s international stage against NHL talent including Connor McDavid and Jack Eichel.
“It’s pretty surreal to see Levente take the ice against NHL superstars just over a year removed from winning a Premier national championship,” said Oilers General Manager David Imonti. “Levente’s development and success are a huge credit to his work ethic and the opportunities available within the USPHL Premier.”
In addition to Hegedus’ participation, former Oilers interim coach and team consultant Corey Neilson is also taking part in the tournament as an assistant coach for Great Britain.
Hegedus’ rise to the IIHF World Championship continues to highlight the growing development pathway available through the USPHL Premier, with players advancing to collegiate, professional, and international levels across the hockey world.
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