Learn the full-ice game.
Space to work on skating, passing, positioning, and decisions as a team. The focus is long-term growth.
THE GAME. THE GROWTH. THE COMMUNITY.
A place for
their next step.
For 8U teams ready to explore full-ice hockey together.
UHL is bringing organizations across Upstate New York together around a simple goal: help young players keep learning, competing, and loving hockey.
Find the right challenge.
Teams move up or down divisions based on performance, keeping the challenge appropriate as players and teams develop.
Build local connections.
Meet other programs across Upstate New York through a shared league experience for players, coaches, and families.
PROPOSED 2027-28 LEAGUE FORMAT
20 regular-season games
plus March playoffs.
Full-ice 8U league play. Exact dates and rink assignments are still being finalized.
- Game days
- 10 doubleheader dates, primarily selected 1st and 3rd Saturdays - two games per team, per game day.
- Season
- October through February; playoffs in March.
- Holidays
- Holiday weekends will be avoided or adjusted.
- Travel
- Two games on each league date increase playing time relative to time in the car. Scheduling will aim to reduce unnecessary travel wherever possible.
- Team entries
- Organizations may potentially enter more than one team depending on roster strength and interest.
- Next details
- Final dates, rink assignments, pricing, and eligibility requirements will be shared before enrollment.
MEANINGFUL GAMES. ROOM TO DEVELOP.
Competitive balance matters
UHL is being built to create meaningful, competitive games - not simply place every team into the same level regardless of ability.
Teams will be moved up or down divisions based on performance to keep games competitive. The league will evaluate actual playing level and adjust placements as the season develops. Initial placement is Premier Division for 2019 teams and Championship Division for 2020 teams. Teams may move based on performance.
The goal is simple: give every team the best possible chance to play competitive hockey and develop.
BEFORE YOU REACH OUT
A few good questions
How many games do we play on a game day?
Each league game day is a doubleheader: two games per team. That means more time on the ice relative to time spent traveling, with exact times and rink assignments to follow.
Can our organization bring more than one team?
Yes. Tell us your expected team count, birth years, and levels. Each team can have its own league entry.
Do we need a finalized roster to express interest?
No. Coaches and organizations can reach out while planning. Use “Unsure” where needed and tell us what you have in mind.
Does submitting the form reserve a spot?
No. It starts a conversation with the commissioner. It does not enroll your team or require payment.
Where will schedules and standings appear?
The Schedule, Standings, and Playoff Picture pages will carry league updates as games and results are announced.