About the Northeast Sled Hockey League (NESHL)

The Northeast Sled Hockey League (NESHL) is a groundbreaking organization in the world of adaptive sports. Founded in 2005, NESHL became the first organized, multi-state adult sled hockey league in the United States. Operating as a 501(c)(3) non-profit, the league spans from Maine to Maryland and provides competitive sled hockey opportunities for athletes with and without disabilities.

NESHL's mission emphasizes teamwork, commitment, and sportsmanship while fostering an inclusive environment where players of all abilities can compete at the highest level. The league has produced numerous Paralympians and continues to be a cornerstone of adaptive hockey development in the northeastern United States.

Who Plays in NESHL

NESHL is open to adults with and without physical disabilities. The league welcomes players ranging from beginners to former and current Paralympians. Teams are co-ed, and the league hosts both adult and junior divisions to accommodate various age groups and skill levels.

Many NESHL alumni have gone on to represent Team USA at the Paralympic Games, winning gold medals and showcasing the exceptional talent developed through this league. The inclusive nature of NESHL means that both disabled and non-disabled players can participate together, promoting awareness and understanding of adaptive sports.

NESHL Member Teams

NESHL features approximately 19 member clubs across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. Teams are organized into divisions (Southern, Atlantic, and Metropolitan) to facilitate competitive play. Some notable teams include:

  • Boston ICE Storm - Massachusetts
  • Bennett Blazers - Maryland
  • Central Vermont Pioneers - Vermont
  • Gaylord Wolfpack - Connecticut
  • Hammerheads - Delaware Valley/New Jersey/Philadelphia
  • Johnstown Sitting Bulls - Pennsylvania
  • New England Warriors - New England region
  • New York Sled Rangers - New York (NHL-affiliated)
  • Northeast Passage Wildcats - New Hampshire
  • Ohio Warriors - Ohio
  • Pittsburgh Mighty Penguins-Adult Black - Pennsylvania
  • Space Coast Blast - Florida
  • Springfield Thunderbirds - Massachusetts
  • State College Coyotes - Pennsylvania
  • USA Warriors - Maryland/DC/Virginia
  • Wings of Steel - New Jersey

Many teams are affiliated with NHL franchises or local adaptive sports organizations, strengthening the connection between professional hockey and the adaptive sports community.

When and Where They Play

The NESHL season runs from September through March, with teams competing in monthly travel games throughout the regular season. Playoffs are typically held in March, culminating in an exciting conclusion to each season.

Games and tournaments are hosted at rinks across the Northeast, including:

  • Connecticut - Choate Rosemary Hall in Wallingford (Wolfpack home games)
  • New Hampshire - University of New Hampshire facilities (Northeast Passage Wildcats)
  • New York - Various venues throughout the state
  • Pennsylvania - Multiple locations including Pittsburgh and State College
  • Maryland - Venues in the DC/Baltimore area
  • New Jersey - Playoff and regular season venues

Teams typically practice weekly during the winter season, with game weekends featuring multiple matchups at host venues.

Level of Play

NESHL is considered an adult competitive league, providing high-level recreational and advanced amateur play. Skill levels range from beginners to former and current Paralympians, with divisions organized to ensure competitive balance.

Games follow most USA Hockey rules, with specific modifications for sled hockey:

  • Three 15-minute stop time periods
  • Hybrid icing rules
  • Shootouts for tied games
  • Running clock when goal differential reaches five or more in the third period
  • Mandatory neck guards for all players
  • Specific equipment requirements for sleds and sticks

The league's connection to US National and Paralympic programs means many players train at an elite level, making NESHL competitions exciting and highly skilled.

League History and Achievements

Since its founding in 2005, NESHL has been at the forefront of sled hockey development in the United States. Key achievements include:

  • Establishing the first multi-state adult sled hockey league in the country
  • Growing from a handful of teams to nearly 20 member clubs
  • Producing numerous Paralympic gold medalists for Team USA
  • Expanding geographic reach from Maine to Maryland
  • Building partnerships with NHL teams and adaptive sports organizations
  • Hosting tournaments that draw national attention to sled hockey

Teams regularly compete in regional and national tournaments, including the NHL Sled Classic and USA Hockey Disabled Festival, further showcasing the talent within the league.

Season Format and Standings

NESHL uses a points-based standings system:

  • Win: 2 points
  • Overtime/Shootout Loss: 1 point
  • Regulation Loss: 0 points

This system keeps standings competitive throughout the season, with only a few points typically separating the top teams. Playoffs feature round-robin standings and bracketed semifinal/final games, with results updated after each playoff weekend.

For current season standings, schedules, and stats, visit the official NESHL website.

Get Involved

Whether you're interested in playing, volunteering, or supporting adaptive sports, NESHL welcomes your involvement. The league promotes awareness of adaptive sports and supports athlete development, confidence, and community building.

Visit the NESHL Website

Sled hockey is played sitting atop a sled with two hockey skate blades, using shortened sticks with picks for propulsion. It's an exciting, fast-paced sport that demonstrates the incredible athleticism and determination of its participants.