The off-season doesn’t have to mean hanging up your skates. Many young hockey players use the summer months to sharpen their skills and continue developing through dedicated training and leagues.
One example of a league designed for just that purpose is Futures Hockey. Futures Hockey leagues are built to help players improve their skills and understanding of the game in different situations.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the structure of Futures Hockey, the rules, how to register, and the benefits it offers to up-and-coming players.
Overview of the Futures Hockey League
The Futures Hockey League is Northeast Ohio’s premier off-season hockey league for young players looking to improve their skills. Based in Cleveland, the Futures Hockey League is a non-checking league, which means there’s a greater emphasis on skill development and less on aggressive physical play.
The league has divisions based on both birth year and skill level (AA to AAA), so players can be sure they’ll be competing against others of similar abilities. To play in the 2024-25 season, players must meet specific qualifications based on their birth year and what they accomplished in the previous season. It’s important to make sure you meet these criteria if you’re hoping to participate.
Registration and Draft Process
Ready to hit the ice? Make sure you register before the deadline on May 17! To sign up, just click the “LEAGUE REGISTRATION” link and fill out the application form.
After registration closes, we’ll hold a draft to place players on teams. The draft helps us distribute talent fairly and create balanced competition across the league. This way, everyone has a chance to shine and the games are exciting for players and fans alike.
League Rules and Gameplay
The Futures Hockey League is designed to be fun, fair, and safe. Here’s a quick rundown of how the league is structured.
League Rules
The league rules are designed to give every player a fair amount of playing time, and to protect players from injury. The rules detail the protective equipment each player is required to wear, and the actions that are allowed versus those that are prohibited. Because the league emphasizes development over aggression, checking is not permitted.
Gameplay
Games are coached by OHP’s expert coaching staff, and are designed to improve each player’s hockey skills and situational awareness. The league emphasizes the development of positive habits and good sportsmanship.
Schedule, Facilities, and Cost
Here’s a quick breakdown of what you need to know to participate in the Futures Hockey League:
- Schedule
- The league runs from June 18 to August 14, 2025. All teams are guaranteed eight games, including seven regular season games.
- Facilities
- Games will be held at Winterhurst Ice Arena in Lakewood.
- Cost
- The fee for players is $450. Goalies can participate for $250.
Wrapping Up
The Futures Hockey League offers young players a unique opportunity to hone their skills, gain valuable game experience, and learn from knowledgeable coaches. It’s a league designed to foster player development and promote positive habits, both on and off the ice.
If you’re a player looking to elevate your game or a parent seeking a supportive and developmental off-season hockey experience, the Futures Hockey League is well worth considering.