HOCKEY IN CANADA

Hockey in Canada

Canada has 213 ice rinks, 311 active hockey teams, 13 leagues and 567 players on file in the RinkStop directory. Canada is a full member of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) and the men’s national team is currently ranked #4 in the world, with the women’s national team at #2.

Finding hockey in Canada

The teams listed on this page are organized by league. The top professional league is the NHL. Below you can browse 8 leagues from professional to amateur, including women’s hockey in the Professional Women's Hockey League.Each team has a roster page with arena info, the league they play in, and a link to the team\u2019s official site.

Where to play hockey in Canada

New players should start with a learn-to-skate program at one of the 213 rinks on this page. Most rinks also run learn-to-play hockey clinics for both kids and adults. Registration with the national federation is typically required before joining a team. The \u201cHow to play\u201d section below has a step-by-step pathway from first-time skater to league play.

Hockey ecosystem in Canada

Hockey Canada oversees the national program. Most children start through the Canadian Tire First Shift program, which provides free equipment for first-time players.

Featured Hockey Players from Canada

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Max Adams

left_wing

Jake Allen

goalie

Michael Amadio

right_wing

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Nolan Anderson

defenseman

Josh Anderson

right_wing

Jaret Anderson-Dolan

center

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Bradley Atkins

left_wing

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Hunter Atkins

defenseman

How to Play Hockey in Canada

A practical guide for beginners, newcomers to Canada, and parents looking to get their child into the sport.

1. 1
   Learn to skate first

   Most hockey players in Canada start with skating lessons. Many rinks run learn-to-skate programs for ages 3+ that teach the basics of balance, edges, and stopping — the foundations of hockey.
2. 2
   Try a learn-to-play clinic

   Most local rinks and clubs run learn-to-play programs for beginners. These typically run 6–8 weeks, provide loaner equipment, and cost between $50–$300. Browse rinks above and contact one directly to ask about upcoming sessions.
3. 3
   Join a youth or adult recreational team

   After learn-to-play, most players in Canada join a house league or recreational team. These run weekly practices and games at the local rink and are the most common entry point to organized hockey.
4. 4
   Register with the national federation

   Hockey's birthplace and powerhouse In the US this is USA Hockey, in Canada it's Hockey Canada, and in Europe each country has its own federation. Registration is typically annual and includes insurance.
5. 5
   Progress through the development pathway

   Talented players in Canada typically progress through age-group teams (U8, U10, U12...) into travel or select teams, then junior leagues, and eventually professional or collegiate hockey. The pathway differs by country but generally follows the IIHF development model.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Hockey in Canada

Hockey Guides for Canada

The RinkStop blog covers the questions every player, parent, and coach asks.