Info about the NYCGHA

The New York City Gay Hockey Association (NYCGHA) is New York's first official gay hockey organization. We provide an environment free of harassment and discrimination for members and friends of the LGBT community to play ice hockey and fulfill their athletic aspirations. All members must follow our Code of Conduct.

The NYCGHA is a member of the Gay Hockey International and is a Nonprofit Organization under IRS code 501(c)(3).

Information for beginners

Check out our collection of tidbits for beginning hockey players. Everything from, "OK. How do I put on all this gear?" to "Where am I supposed to stand in face-offs near my goaltender?" You should also check out Hockey 101 in our Bulletin Board.

Developmental teams:

The Rockets, Tigers, and Hotshots consist of new skaters, beginning players, and a few intermediate players. The teams are coed and compete in Sky Rink's division 8.

Novice and beginner players may try out to join a team at season breaks. Games are always free to spectators, and everyone is welcome to cheer them on and meet the players after the games.

Recreational team:

The Wizards is a coed team consisting of intermediate players competing in Sky Rink's division seven. The Wizards play most Saturday nights and all are welcomed to cheer on the team and meet the players after the games. It's free!

Competitive team:

The NY Lions play a more intense game than our developmental or recreational teams. The competitive teams are coed and consist of intermediate and advanced players. Playing most Friday nights, the NY Lions compete in Sky Rink's division six. Skilled players are welcome to try out and join the team. Everyone is welcome to cheer on the teams and meet the players after the games. It's free.

Tournaments:

Players from our competitive and recreational teams compete in international LGBT tournaments in Boston, Denver, Los Angeles, Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver, and Washington. Schedule of Upcoming Tournaments. Additionally, we host NYC's annual Chelsea Challenge tournament the weekend before Gay Pride. The NYCGHA generally fields one to three teams at most tournaments. The level of play at the tournaments ranges from competitive (including former Division 1 and Junior Pro players) to recreational and novice divisions. Recreational, skilled and highly-skilled players are encouraged to try out and join a travel team.