ABOUT THE QUINTE AREA HOCKEY LEAGUE
The purpose of the Quinte Area Recreational Hockey League is to allow the players to have fun, be creative and make some new friends. This is a league where there is no pressure to perform. Kids can try moves that they would never try in a competitive game because it would drive their coach crazy. Try something that their favorite NHL player like Datsyuk, Crosby, Ovechkin, Stamkos, Kane, Seguin... can do with ease.
The league was created here in Belleville in 2011 because we had players travelling to other centres, so why not start one here. It was also was started to provide another spring time sporting option locally for our kids. Games are played on the new surfaces in the Quinte Sports & Wellness Centre located on Cannifton Road in Belleville.
We started the league with 4 Pee Wee aged teams. Ice time was limited for scheduling, so games were played in the Dick Ellis arena or on the Yardmen ice surface, with play happening on a variety of different days. In 2012, due to the increased interest, we expanded to 4 Atom, 8 Pee Wee and 4 Bantam teams. Games again were either on Sunday afternoons to early evening or weeknights in the Family Dental Centre Arena or the Mackay Insurance Arena.
The league now runs from mid-March to the end of May. So families can enjoy their weekends as the summer weather approaches, we have applied for Monday to Thursday evening ice. Game times will start at 5:30, with the last game starting at 9:00.
Teams in all divisions are usually named after professional hockey teams. Scores are kept during games, but are not kept for standings purposes.
The goal is to provide a safe and productive environment that enables young athletes to learn and apply the principles of teamwork, discipline, dedication, and sportsmanship. We facilitate the development of strength and character in every child that participates by having supportive coaches.
There is ZERO TOLERANCE FOR FIGHTING in this league. If you fight, you're done, and your money will not be refunded and you may not be allowed back in upcoming seasons.
The most important skill to be learned in hockey is skating. This league gives the player that opportunity using an NHL size ice surface. It works on important skills like puck handling, skating, passing and shooting. There are only 12 skaters on each team and we use a 1 minute buzzer system to ensure equal ice time.
Each team has 1 goalie. They will get lots of shots in this league and it also affords them the opportunity to work on their puck control. This is a good opportunity to have a goalie mentor come out and watch so skills and techniques can be worked on in this no pressure league.
The play is continuous, no body checking; when a whistle occurs because the goalie freezes the puck, the other team has to clear the zone and let the defending team break out over the blue line. This creates lots of puck movement, shots on the goalies and a quick pace so the players get a good skate and cardio workout.
If a penalty infraction occurs, the player receiving the penalty must go to the bench forfeiting their shift, and a new player comes on. The player that the penalty happened against will receive a penalty shot in return at the end of the period. If time permits, everyone will get a penalty shot at the end of the game.
It's just like a good old game of pond hockey, but the goalies have equipment, it's indoors so the ice is better and referees keep the game flowing without any problems.
Players, both boys and girls, come from all different associations in the surrounding area, Baltimore, Belleville, Centre Hastings, Campbellfors, Deseronto, Madoc, Marmora, Picton, Quinte West, Stirling and includes levels of play from AAA to B and to our local league players. Teams are built to be as evenly matched as possible. Playing with friends requests may be made, but the intent is for balanced and fair teams and divisions.
We are sustained by the efforts of volunteers who display an extraordinary amount of commitment and hard work, ensuring that our league has a positive influence in the lives of your children. We also strive to provide a service to our community by providing an alternative sporting venue and healthy outlet for children.
PLEASE SEE RULES and OTHER INFORMATION.
Sportsmanship - Teamwork - Strength - Character - Discipline - Dedication
We welcome all children.