The NHL’s Official Youth Street Hockey League
WHO WE ARE
NHL STREET brings new style, energy, and gameplay to the sport of hockey. We’re creating an affordable, neighborhood-based model that gives kids everywhere an opportunity to learn and play.
The NHL has teamed up with RCX Sports—the leader in youth sports experiences—to bring NHL STREET to life. Designed for kids ages 6 to 16 years old, our youth athletes feel like the pros when they suit up in authentic NHL STREET uniforms to play in high-energy, team-first leagues.
Our Operators
NHL STREET operators are setting up leagues in local communities across the U.S. and Canada.
Operators receive resources, guidance, and support to easily provide first-class programming that keeps families coming back season after season.
THANKS TO OUR PARTNERS
Frequently Asked Questions
THE BASICS
Q: WHO CAN PLAY NHL STREET?
A: We offer leagues for ages 6 to 16 years old. Previous experience in hockey is not required! Whether you’re new to the game or a veteran on-ice player looking to continue your season, NHL STREET welcomes kids of all skill levels.
Q: WHAT ARE THE RULES?
A: NHL STREET has its own gameplay model, designed to be fast-paced and engaging for all participants. Most leagues (depending on size of playing surface) use a 4-on-4 setup, plus goalies. Games consist of two 15-minute halves. Tie-breaks are settled with shoot-outs.
Q: WHAT IS THE EXPECTED TIME COMMITMENT FOR PARTICIPANTS?
A: The total time commitment to participate in NHL STREET is about 1 hour per week. Most leagues operate on a 6-, 8-, or 10-week cycle. Coaches hold a 20-minute practice before each game, and games consist of two 15-minute halves.
Q: WHAT EQUIPMENT IS NEEDED TO PLAY NHL STREET?
A: All NHL STREET participants receive a uniform as part of their registration. These are the only requirements to get in the game. NHL STREET leagues provide balls and goalie equipment, so players don’t need to purchase or bring their own equipment from home. Players are allowed to wear helmets, gloves, shin-pads, mouthguards, and sweatbands if they wish, but these are optional. Skates, elbow and shoulder pads, ice hockey pants, and ice hockey goalie equipment are not permitted. Players may bring and use their own stick if it is suitable for street hockey.
GETTING INVOLVED
Q: WHEN WILL NHL STREET LEAGUES BEGIN?
A: We plan to launch the first NHL STREET leagues in spring/summer of 2023.
Q: WHERE WILL NHL STREET LEAGUES BE LOCATED?
A: To start, NHL STREET will begin in select markets across the U.S. and Canada, beginning with Austin, TX; Boston, MA; Edmonton, AB; Detroit, MI; Pittsburgh, PA; Winnipeg, MB; and Vancouver, BC. As the program expands, local youth sports organizers will be able to bring NHL STREET to their neighborhoods.
Q: I AM A LOCAL YOUTH SPORTS ORGANIZER. HOW DO I START AN NHL STREET LEAGUE IN MY COMMUNITY?
A: If you’re interested in starting an NHL STREET league, simply fill out this form and we’ll reach out with all the necessary information.
Q: ASIDE FROM NHL STREET LEAGUES, DOES NHL STREET HOST ANY SPECIAL EVENTS?
A: Yes! NHL STREET has festivals and showcases at designated moments throughout the year. Festivals feature music, food, skills challenges and mini-games. They are a great way for newcomers to get introduced to the sport.
Showcases are special days of tournament-style gameplay. While showcases are tailored to youth with experience in the game, they often have opportunities for newcomers to join —and they celebrate positive teamwork as part of the experience. You can follow the latest festivals and showcases @NHLStreet on Instagram.