Spring Hockey League Excitement Comes to an End

After a long, grueling 20 week Winter season ending in a 3 game weekend tournament, Spring League had indeed sprung at Ozaukee Ice Center in Mequon, Wisconsin. Spring league is technically called the Spring Fun League consisting of two levels, simply upper and lower. Spring league differs from Winter in that the team rosters are picked by the Fun League Commissioner, Ryan Miller. The teams are intentionally made to be as even as possible. The Spring League only lasts 8 weeks and you have no idea who you are playing with. So, you meet some new people, team up with some old friends and occasionally get stuck with someone you really don’t like. It’s only 8 weeks after all, so suck it up, sometimes we don’t always get what we want.

Spring League encourages players to try new things. Want to try some new sticks or gloves or face shield? This is the perfect perfect time. John McAuliffe started playing 30 plus years ago. After coaching hockey for 10 years, he noticed that it was harder to get around on the ice only playing once a week. John said, “Yeah, sure, it’s a little bit about getting older but I used to actually do the drills with the kids too. I’m not getting the edge work that I used to, so I need to find other time to get out there to get the rust off.” Many people play a different position than they would during the Winter as well. John said, “I’ve been playing some defense this year. It gives me a chance to see the entire ice as well as work on my backward skating.”

Spring League has rules like “No jerks allowed”, along with don’t show off and you are not allowed to get a hat trick. Recognizing the talent level of your opponent and slowing down your game is also encouraged. There are 4 teams in two divisions. Play starts March 19 and runs through June 4 with several breaks for Easter, Mother’s Day and Memorial Day weekend.

With Spring League ending there is a short break and then yes you guessed it. Summer League starts June 12 through August 21, 2023, every Sunday evening. The anticipation is growing to get back out on the ice and see what is in store for. the summer and hockey.