Skill Level

Video Example

Level 1 – Beginner/Novice

Skaters and goaltenders at this level are becoming more comfortable on their skates but still have a hard time with skating both forward and backwards. They’ve acquired some basic skills to get up and down the ice but still struggle with carrying the puck, making passes, and taking shots. Players in this group would also include those who are not natural athletes and may take more time to develop their skills. The level of physicality in this game should be nil although players should understand that accidental collisions will occur because players haven’t mastered controlled skating.

Level 1.5 Mid-Beginner/Novice

Skaters and goaltenders at this level are becoming more comfortable on their skates but still have a hard time with skating both forward and backwards. They’ve acquired some basic skills to get up and down the ice but still struggle with carrying the puck, making passes, and taking shots. Players in this group would also include those who are not natural athletes and may take more time to develop their skills. The level of physicality in this game should be nil although players should understand that accidental collisions will occur because players haven’t mastered controlled skating.

NONE

Level 2 – Advanced Novice

Skaters and goaltenders at this level are becoming more comfortable on their skates, but still struggle going backwards. They are probably just getting comfortable with positional play, learning to skate with head up, learning the rules, team concepts and understand offensive and defensive zones.

Level 2.5

Skaters and goaltenders at this level are comfortable skating forward and can now skate backwards comfortably. They are starting to understand positioning, team concepts, can skate backwards, but are still working on stick handling, passing, crossovers etc.

NONE

Level 3 – Low Intermediate

Skaters and goaltenders at this level are the great wide middle of adult recreational hockey. Most Level 3 skaters have not had significant coaching or played significant youth hockey as a child, but are generally athletic, have good knowledge of the game, skating and puck handling skills and can play at a general competitive level. Some Level 3 skaters may be slowing with age and moving down from higher ranks.

Simply put, Level 3 players are average in most areas of the game.

Level 3.5

Skaters and goaltenders at this level are comfortable in a fast paced game and are able to keep up with the play. They are in average physical shape. Skating –

NONE

Level 4 – Intermediate

Skaters and goaltenders have substantial hockey abilities, skills, knowledge, and experience. Most Level 4’s have been coached and have played considerable hockey in the past.

Level 4.5 – High Intermediate

Skaters and goaltenders at this level play at a high level in all areas of the game. They understand the rules, team concepts, are skilled a stick handling, passing, puck control etc. They are in good physical shape.

NONE

Level 5 – Advanced

Skaters and goaltenders at this level play at a high level in all areas of the game. They understand the rules, team concepts, are skilled a stick handling, passing, puck control etc. They are in above average physical shape. Current or former WHL, CHL, Junior A or Major Junior players.

NONE

Level 6 – Elite/Professional

Skaters and goaltenders at this level are current or former professional athletes (Olympic, NHL or AHL, high caliber WHL/CHL).