Sticks & Stones Adult Hockey League in Crystal Lake Illinois

Frequently Asked Questions


What day/time are the games?

For the Spring 2026 season, all games are Sunday nights. The first game starts at 5pm, the last game starts at 8:30pm. Your team will randomly play at each time slot throughout the season.

Can I be put on the same team as a friend(s)?

Yes. We allow you to play/pair with ONE other skater. Both people must agree to be paired together and both players must play at the same level. If one player is a Bronze player and the other player is a Silver or Gold player, we cannot accommodate this request.

We are strict about this rule for two reasons. One, to control the parity and keep gameplay safe/fair to all. Two, by mixing things up every season you get to know everyone in the league and we will build a stronger community/league. We will reach out to you about pairing requests after you register and before the season starts.

Can I bring a team into the SSHL?

No. We accept individual registrations only. You are allowed to play/pair with one other person. See the FAQ above.

Why do you rate players?

All players are rated so we can determine the proper level/league to place you in, and so we can build teams that are balanced. If you have not played in the SSHL or the CIH Rec League in the last year, we will require you to be rated.

The Spring 2026 season evaluation skate will be on 1/11/2026. You will be notified of the exact details after registration. If you cannot attend the evaluation skate, we will work with you directly to get you rated.

Am I a fit for the SSHL? Am I too new?

The SSHL is a developmental league for adult hockey players. We accept players with very basic skating and hockey skills. Some of our players have been playing hockey for as little as 1-2 months when they first join.

If you have NEVER played hockey, it might be helpful to attend some Stick & Pucks (open hockey) first, to practice. 

Am I too good for the SSHL?

Maybe. The SSHL is a developmental league for adult hockey players, and we have three levels of play. Bronze is for beginners, those with limited experience, and players who are slowing down. If you're reading this, you're probably not a Bronze player.

Silver is for players who are slightly more skilled and faster than Bronze players. The Silver league is still a Rec level league. Gold is for players more skilled than Silver players. However, this is still a developmental league and most of our players do not have any formal hockey experience or training. If you played high level hockey in high school, college, juniors, etc., you are probably not a fit for the SSHL.

Additionally, if you are overly competitive, aggressive, and have a "win at all cost" attitude, you are definitely not a fit.