NRLH 2026-27 SEASON
Registration for 2026–2027 NRLH tryouts is officially open. We’re excited to reconnect with returning players and meet new families as we start building another season centered on development, competition, and community.
Ages
What aged players are tryouts appropriate for this program?
Players 6 & older who have completed at least one year of Learn-to-Play.
8U: Ages 6 thru 8 (2018-2020)
10U: Ages 9 and 10 (2016-2017)
12U: Ages 11 and 12 (2014-2015)
14U: Ages 13 and 14 (2012-2013)
When
While tryouts take place in March & April, the official NRLH hockey season begins in late August and runs through March of the following year.
We typically break for holidays (i.e., Thanksgiving, Winter Holidays) although we offer, events, family skates and "stick/puck times" over these holidays periods for program members.
Where
Practices and home games take place at our local partner rinks Westchester Skating Academy (WSA), Playland Ice Casino, and EJ Murray's, offering our players a consistent and supportive training environment in convenient Westchester locations.
Additionally, 8U teams will also compete in games hosted at Wings Arena in Stamford, CT providing valuable experience against regional competition.
Practice & Player Development
Players typically practice twice per week, with each session lasting approximately one hour focused on team building skills and emphasizing skating, puck control, and individual skill development.
At the 10U and older level, a third practice session (on and/or off-ice training) is incorporated to support continued development and performance.
Goaltending Development & Specialized Training
Read MoreWe are committed to developing young goaltenders and proudly offer a tuition waiver to encourage players to take on this vital position. On designated skill days, goalies get specialized instruction with experienced goaltending coaches.
Games
Teams primarily play on weekends, with occasional weeknight games for special events.
10U and above typically play 2 games per weekend, but some weekends may include up to 4 games depending on scheduling and tournaments.
The majority of games are local (within a 40-minute drive), though some away games may require travel up to 1–3 hours to ensure a competitive season.
Full Season: Approximately 25 home and 25 away games.
Game Formats: 8U teams compete in half-ice or cross-ice formats while 10U and older play full-ice games.
Tournaments, Showcases & Jamborees
Each season, travel teams have the opportunity to participate in exciting tournaments, showcases, and jamborees—playing multiple games over a fun and competitive weekend. Most teams plan for 2 to 3 events per season, offering players valuable experiences and unforgettable memories both on and off the ice.
Tournaments: Competitive, bracket-style events that typically span a full weekend and may begin as early as Friday morning. Teams play several games leading to playoffs or championship rounds. These are often overnight travel events requiring hotel stays.
Showcases: Multi-game weekends focused on balanced matchups and player development rather than standings. While still competitive, showcases are designed to evaluate team and individual performance. Like tournaments, they may begin on Fridays and involve travel and lodging.
Jamborees: Short-format events usually designed for younger age groups (such as 8U), with an emphasis on fun, sportsmanship, and skill-building. These often take place in a single day or over a single weekend, with a more relaxed structure.
Please note that participation in these events may involve additional expenses, including event fees, travel, lodging, and meals.
LEAGUE PARTICIPATION
New Rochelle Lightning Hockey proudly competes in the following leagues, providing players with structured, competitive gameplay and development opportunities.
- Hudson Valley Hockey League (HVHL)
- Easter Junior Elite Prospects League (EJEPL)
- Chelsea Piers Mite Cross Ice League
- Wings Arena Mite Half Ice League
Uniforms & Team Apparel
In addition to uniforms and warm-ups, the Team Store is open year round and includes NRLH-branded apparel, gifts, and fan gear—perfect for players, parents, and supporters to show their Lightning pride all season long!
Our uniform store opens twice per year to ensure all players are properly outfitted for the season.
Preseason Order Window (July): The main ordering period for game jerseys, practice jerseys, and game socks. This window is open for two weeks and will be shared via email. Ordering during this time ensures gear arrives before the season begins.
In-Season Order Window: Opens after the season starts for families needing to replace or supplement uniform items.
Players are required to wear official NRLH uniforms for all games and practices to maintain a unified and professional appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Learn to Play program?
The Learn to Play program, in collaboration with the NHL and New York Rangers, introduces children aged 5–10 to hockey fundamentals through fun, station-based activities. First-time participants receive free head-to-toe equipment, including skates.
2. How can I register my child for NRLH programs?
Registration details and forms are available on the NRLH website under the "Registration" section.
3. Are there tryouts for team placement?
Yes, NRLH conducts evaluations for 8U placement and tryouts for 10U and above. Tryouts for upcoming seasons are scheduled between March and April. If tryouts have been missed , individual assessments can be arranged prior to season start in August.
4. What is the American Development Model (ADM) that NRLH follows?
NRLH adheres to USA Hockey's ADM, emphasizing age-appropriate skill development, long-term athlete growth, and a fun, engaging environment for players.
5. Where are NRLH's home rinks located?
NRLH utilizes local ice rinks for practices and games. Specific rink locations can be found on the NRLH website under the "Our Rinks" section.
6. What equipment is required for participation?
For the Learn to Play program, first-time participants receive full equipment. For other programs, players are expected to have their own gear, including skates, helmet, pads, stick, and appropriate attire.
7. How can I contact NRLH for more information?
You can reach out to NRLH via email at info@nrlh.org for any inquiries or additional information.
2026-27 TRYOUT SCHEDULE
8U
Sun 3/8 4:40PM WSAWed 3/11 6:30PM Playland
8U tryouts are evaluations - every player will be assigned to a team provided they meet the basic skating requirements to safely participate.
10U
Tues 3/3 4:20PM WSAThurs 3/5 4:15PM Playland*Makeup Sun 3/8 5:30PM WSA
12U
Tues 3/3 7:30PM PlaylandWed 3/4 6:30PM Playland*Makeup Sun 3/8 6:30PM WSA
14U
Wed 4/1 5:40PM WSA
Thu 4/2 7:30PM WSA
*Makeup Mon 4/6 7:20PM WSA
*First round offers will go out prior to makeups.
For information regarding our programs, please email info@nrlhockey.org.
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