Having trouble dragging yourself to the gym for another run-of-the-mill workout? It’s time to consider playing in an adult ice hockey league. Shinny USA is ice hockey without the hassle, expense, or major time commitments. Our fun, friendly pick-up games will have you hooked and feeling exhilarated and ready to face the day! If you love to play hockey or have always wanted to try, come check us out.
You might be wondering if Shinny is the right adult ice hockey program for you. Check out these frequently asked questions to find out when we play, equipment requirements, how to get started, and more.
1. What Days and Times Do You Play?
Shinny USA offers game play Monday through Friday from 6am to 7:15am at most of the 7 convenient rinks in the greater Philadelphia area:
- IceWorks Skating Complex — Aston, PA
Morning Shinny: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday - Hatfield Ice Arena — Hatfield, PA
Morning Shinny: Tuesday & Thursday - The Skatium — Havertown, PA
Morning Shinny: Monday, Wednesday, Friday - Oaks Center Ice — Oaks, PA
Morning Shinny: Tuesday, Friday, Saturday - UPenn Class of 1923 Arena — Philadelphia, PA
Morning Shinny: Thursday (September through March) - Ice Line Quad Rinks—West Chester, PA
Morning Shinny: Monday to Friday - The Skating Club of Wilmington — Wilmington, DE
Morning Shinny: Saturday 7am – 8:15am - Morning Shinny: Available at 7 local rinks starting at 6am at most locations. Play is for 75 minutes.
- Friday Night Special: Four teams of 15 plus a goalie each play against each other in three consecutive, one-hour games. It’s a party complete with food and drinks — like poker night, but better!
- Sunday Shootout: Same format as the Friday Night Special but takes place on a Sunday afternoon.
- Adult Over 45 League: A hybrid of Shinny USA and a conventional adult ice hockey league played on Monday nights. The league has referees, standings, playoffs, and a champion, but is like Shinny USA in spirit.
- Shin guards to protect sensitive knee joints and shins from blades, falls, impact from sticks, and, of course, the puck
- Elbow pads to protect the elbows, forearms, and even triceps from injury
- Hockey gloves provide thick padding on the backs of hands to protect them from being injured by sticks and pucks; the palm side is made of thin leather to allow for dexterity
- Helmets combine a rigid yet flexible outer surface with protective foam padding inside; they may or may not feature a face cage or visor
- Be On Time: One late person makes everyone else late. We ask all players to be ready to get on the ice immediately at the start time.
- Be Respectful: Treat all fellow players, rink staff, and spectators with respect.
- Be Supportive: We started Shinny USA to create a fun, supportive, positive atmosphere. Remember that skating has a sharp learning curve, so always be patient with those who are less skilled. You should be willing to switch teams or rinks when necessary.
- Be Careful: Above all, Shinny is played for the sheer fun of it. Refrain from any game play that could injure others. No checking or fighting are allowed.
- Be Safe: Wear all protective gear required by our rules.
- Be a Hustler: Go all out during each shift — it makes the game more fun and gives you a better workout!
- Be Considerate: Remember that others are counting on your participation. Please show up when you’ve committed to doing so, only bring guests who’ve been approved, pay seasonal fees on time, and keep in mind that cooperation among all participants is what keeps us all out on the ice.
2. What Kind of Programs Are Offered?
Our adult ice hockey league has a program to suit every skill level and every interest. Our program offerings are as follows:
3. Am I Allowed to Just Show Up?
We do not allow walk-ons. All players must pre-register and fill out an online waiver. Please complete our waiver and sign-up form so that we can find the right program and location for you. We’ll be in touch shortly so you can get started ASAP.
4. Are There Different Skill Levels?
Yes, different skill levels are all invited to play. Adults who have never played hockey skate alongside former NHL players, and everyone has a blast. Dads in their 30s and 40s often get the itch to try hockey after watching their children learn the game.
The rules of Shinny make it particularly attractive. Espically for those who want to get involved with ice hockey, but want to skip the more dangerous aspects of the sport. Because Shinny doesn’t allow checking or fighting, but still requires protective gear. The game can be played safely by those who don’t have decades of skating experience or don’t want to risk bruises or head injuries. With all of the competitive nature of the game. Shinny is a fun, low-stakes version of league hockey that almost anyone can enjoy.
5. What Equipment Is Required to Play?
Hockey is a fast-paced sport that has some level of risk built in. It is not uncommon for a puck to fly in an unintended direction or for a participant to get hit by the stick of an excited or less experienced player. In the interest of safety, we require all players in our adult ice hockey league to wear the following on the ice:
Optional, recommended gear includes face protection, hockey pants, and shoulder pads.
6. Is Checking Allowed?
Checking is not permitted, but due to the nature of ice hockey, contact occurs from time to time. If the required equipment listed above is worn, consider your skill level and comfort on the ice when deciding whether to add additional protection — many of our members do so.
5. What Is the Age Limit?
Shinny USA is available for ages 21 and up. We have members in their late 70s and even 80s. If you want to play, then we want to see you on the ice. As the saying goes, use it or lose it!
Staying active keeps you young, both physically and mentally. Strenuous activity like hockey releases endorphins, which are hormones that positively affect mood and help us to cope with stress, anxiety, and depression. Working as a team boots your confidence and provides friendship and emotional support. In other words, hockey is good for the soul.
7. Is Joining Shinny USA Expensive?
While we don’t share costs online, playing in our adult ice hockey league costs about half of a typical men’s league. We save money by scheduling games early in the morning, and by not using refs or score keepers. We find that this is the most cost-effective – and the most fun – model for playing ice hockey.
8. What Is the Shinny USA Code of Conduct?
Shinny’s Code of Conduct includes guidelines for players to follow whenever participating in a Shinny event. They include the following:
Why Shinny USA?
Shinny is a great way to make new friends, get your blood pumping, and get a great start to the day. No formal hockey training is required, and since we prioritize fun over competition, you can enjoy playing without the expense or pressure of a league. Give it a try!
For more information, email us at info@shinnyusa.com or call 1-855-2 SHINNY to find out more. We’d love to see you on the ice!