Sticks & Stones Adult Hockey League in Crystal Lake Illinois

Frequently Asked Questions

What day/time are the games?

All SSHL league games are on Sunday nights. The first games start at 5pm, the last games start at 8:30pm. Your team will randomly play at each time slot throughout the season. Occasionally, there will be a scheduling conflict with the rink, and games will start before 5pm or after 8:30pm, but this is rare.

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. Go to our League Info page for an updated link to our pairing form/rules.

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 (and how) do you rate players?

All players who play in the SSHL must have a player rating. Ratings are used to determine the proper level to place you in, and so we can build teams that are balanced. 

If you have not played in the SSHL or we need an updated rating on you, we will ask you to skate in our evaluation skate, or fill out our hockey experience form, if you cannot make the evaluation skate. Player ratings are adjusted throughout the season and players will be moved up/down a level if they are having an outsized impact on the game.

I am a beginner. Am I a fit for the SSHL?

Most likely, yes! 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 is recommended that you get comfortable with basic skating and hockey skills. You can attend some Stick & Pucks (open hockey) first, or sign up for our Learn to Play Hockey Instructional class, that we offer 3 times per year. 

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.