Recreation Hockey

SAMHA remains committed to offering a recreational hockey option through the Edmonton Federation Hockey League for players in U11, U13, U15, U18 and U21. This league provides participants with a less structured program with 1-2 initial meet-and-greet practices and 18 games during the season. The focus is on participation, fun and meeting new people. It is a non-body-checking alternative to the current mainstream hockey model.

Registration Opens July 4

About FEES FAQ

About

What is Recreation Hockey?

SAMHA offers a recreational hockey option through the Edmonton Federation Hockey League for players in U11, U13, U15, U18 and U21. This league provides participants with a less structured program with 1-2 initial meet-and-greet practices and 18 games during the season. Teams will practice and play ten games in St. Albert; the remaining games will be in the Edmonton area. The focus is on participation, fun and meeting new people. It is a non-body-checking alternative to the current mainstream hockey model.

Players will have opportunities to participate in additional skill development sessions at a low cost.

Registration is completed at the District, Operating Area or Interlock Association of choice for all Associations operating within the Edmonton Federation Hockey League and offering Recreational Hockey. There are no boundaries for registration in the Edmonton Federation Hockey League Recreational Hockey.

How is Recreation Hockey different from mainstream hockey?

Players can enter a full team into the league.
No evaluations
No additional costs or team fees.
No standings.
No exhibition, tournament or playoff games.
Recreation hockey is for players who love the game and want to remain involved or get started in hockey.
This is non-competitive hockey that provides a less structured program for players aged 9 - 21.

FEES

FAQ

Recreation Hockey was introduced by St. Albert Minor Hockey in 2021.

How many games are planned for the season?

There will be 18 games (1 per week) beginning late October and ending in March. There will be 2 practices for initial team formation and familiarization. As this is a recreational & fun-based theme, it allows for less commitment from parents and players. It also limits our costs (and player registration fees) with ice time and the constant challenges of managing ice for a league.

How many teams does SAMHA expect to have this season?

This is the third season we have offered the Recreation Hockey Program, and there will be some flexibility in determining the number of teams. Our expectation is that we would have at least one team in each division U11, U13, U15, U18 and U21.

How are the teams selected?

There are no tiers, so it is important that we ensure we have balanced teams to facilitate competitive games. Teams are formed by each District, Operating Area or Interlock Association. Where multiple teams are formed in the same division, teams are to be balanced as best as possible to promote fair competition. Friend requests will be facilitated.

How are the coaches selected?

Coaches are volunteers with players (family) on their team. We expect equal time and fair play with some minor and basic skill development.

What qualifications do teams and coaches require?

All team officials require the RIS Activity Leader. The Head Coach is recommended to have Coach 2 Level. One official per team must have the HCSP (Safety) certification.

What if my skill level is not high enough or too high?

We will do our best to place a player where they are most comfortable. We welcome all skill levels and roll with them on every line, regardless of skill.

Are the rules different than mainstream hockey?

Teams play under Hockey Canada playing rules with a few exceptions:

No Body Checking
Three Goal maximum per game for players
Three penalties per game for players

Aside from these exceptions, players and team officials are subject to the same penalties as those in competitive divisions for similar offences. Supplemental Discipline, as a result of a suspension, inappropriate conduct, aggressive play, etc., will be more severe than in mainstream hockey. All players will be advised of the differences before starting play. Full equipment is mandatory.

How many extra practices do coaches usually fund through parent cash contributions or fundraising?

None and there is no allowance for having teams pursue additional funding for expenses of this nature.

How long are the games?

U11 60 minute games (3 x13 minute stop time periods)

U13 90 minute games (15-20-20 minute stop time periods)

U15 90 minute games (15-20-20 minute stop time periods)

U18 90 minute games (15-20-20 minute stop time periods)

U21 90 minute games (15-20-20 minute stop time periods)