Hockey is a sport that can be addictive. Once players pass into adulthood and have used up their college eligibility and they have no chance to play on the professional level, it would seem that a player's opportunities would be limited. However, USA Hockey says that 126,000 adults play in organized leagues in the U.S. and there are many more who play in Canada. Hockey leagues and recreational programs give players the opportunity to continue playing their sport.
League Format
In adult hockey, teams will play one or two games per week. Practice time will take place during warm-ups for about 15 minutes. In most cases, teams will play three 20-minute periods, but unlike competitive amateur and professional leagues, the clock will run throughout the game. The only exceptions are when serious injuries occur and in the final minute of the third period if the difference in the score is two goals or less.
Costs
The costs of participating in an adult league include ice time, all your own equipment and referee time. You may also have to pay for uniforms in an established league, although that is not the case in all organizations. Hockey costs can reach $500 or more when the cost of skates, sticks and pads are included. Insurance is almost always required. If not, players will have to sign liability releases agreeing not to hold the league and arena accountable in the case of injury.
Rules
Many adult leagues are no-check leagues. This means that you cannot intentionally hit an opponent. However, even in no-check leagues incidental contact when two or more players are going after the puck will occur. Incidental contact should limit players from getting seriously injured, but players have to refrain from skating into the boards at full speed when going after a loose puck. Players who play recklessly may get ejected from the game if they make hard contact with an opponent. A second incident during the season may result in a player getting suspended from the league.
Protective Equipmnent
Players must wear helmets when thy play. The helmet must include a face shield. Players must wear shin pads and a cup. Thigh pads are not necessary because they are built into the uniform pants. Upper body pads are optional. All goaltenders must wear masks, leg pads, a blocker board, a catching glove, and all upper and lower body protective gear.
Member Comments