Youth playing baseball

Why the SSHL?

In the Spring of 2024, we took over management of the Crystal Ice House’s adult recreational hockey league. At the time, the league was struggling. Parity between teams was nonexistent, communication was poor, and most importantly, people were getting hurt and not having fun. That didn’t sit right with us.

We knew adult rec hockey could be so much better. It should be competitive but safe, structured but welcoming, and above all, a good time for everyone who laces up their skates. So in 2025, we officially launched the Sticks & Stones Hockey League (SSHL)—a league built on the belief that hockey should be as enjoyable as it is challenging.

While we still play our games out of the Crystal Ice House, we now run the league independently. That gives us full control to build a better experience: from scheduling and team formation to enforcing fair play and keeping communication open and consistent.

The SSHL prioritizes:

  • Balanced competition through levels of play, player ratings and smart team-building
  • Clear, timely communication so everyone stays informed
  • A welcoming atmosphere for players of all skill levels
  • Player safety and sportsmanship, because no one should get hurt playing the game they love

The result? A league where the games are competitive, the players respect each other, and everyone leaves the rink looking forward to the next time they hit the ice. This isn’t just another rec league. This is a community built by hockey players, for hockey players—and we’re just getting started.

Learn more about the SSHL Adult Hockey League!