Which League Is Right for You?
The Palouse Adult League (PAL) has four league levels, so players are matched with others at a similar pace and skill level. Open the panels below to find where you fit. When you register you’ll complete a short self-evaluation that asks these questions in more detail — check off every statement that’s true of you, and the level with the most checkmarks is probably your best fit.
Placement isn’t set in stone. If you’re torn between two levels, pick the one that sounds most like you; league organizers and captains adjust as the season goes on.
Coming solo or with a group?
You don’t need a team to play. Register as a free agent and league organizers will place you on a team at your level — it’s a common way to join, and plenty of players sign up not knowing anyone but soon make a lot of friends.
Teams are organized by a team captain in coordination with league organizers. If you’re forming a team or already have a group, email adulthockey@palouseicerink.com to get started.
Registration stays open until all teams are full, so don’t wait — spots go quickly.
“A” LeagueExperienced
Advanced, experienced, competitive skaters — usually players who grew up in hockey and continued through college or beyond. The fastest pace on the ice.
This is likely you if:
- You have 5+ years of hockey, with midget travel, junior, college, or higher experience
- You have advanced skating skills, strong fitness, and athletic ability in other sports
- You understand game concepts at an advanced level
- You want to be challenged by very competitive play
“B Major” LeagueAdvanced
Upper-intermediate players with a high level of core hockey skills and a strong understanding of team play and positioning. Forward and backward skating is strong, with good maneuverability and transitions. Many have played high school varsity or several years of adult league.
This is likely you if:
- You have 5+ years of hockey, often including some youth hockey
- You have advanced stopping and starting, and you’re always in control
- You’re most comfortable in a competitive environment and want a fast pace
- You’ve played B Minor and are ready to move up
“B Minor” LeagueIntermediate
Lower- to middle-intermediate players who know the rules and can stop well, but may be newer to adult recreational hockey. Positioning is still developing, and maneuverability and transitions need work. This division is built around skill development and collegiality — rosters are set deliberately for balance across the league, so everyone has room to learn.
This is likely you if:
- You have fewer than 5 years of hockey and little to no youth hockey background
- You can stop, start, and avoid most collisions
- You understand the basics well and are actively building on them
- You want a steady, challenging pace with less risk of injury
- Hockey is a real part of your weekly workout
- You’ve played two or more years of Emerald and want more speed and playmaking
Emerald (“C”) LeagueBeginner
Beginner and novice skaters, many new to the game and still learning the rules — plus returning players with two or three seasons in who are still working on skating, stick handling, and fundamentals. The league exists to bring new players in and develop them for the next level, so ice time is a mix of games and practices.
This is likely you if:
- You’re looking forward to a fun, easy pace with lots of coaching
- You’re still learning basic game concepts and developing stopping and starting
- You have little to no prior hockey experience
- You’ve skated a few times and done some stick-and-puck
- You know how to put your gear on, and you own or can borrow a full set
New to hockey entirely?
Start with Adult Learn to Play Hockey. No skating background, no youth hockey, and no previous adult league experience needed — just enthusiasm. You’ll build the fundamentals before stepping into Emerald League play.
Good to know at every level
- All PIR adult hockey is non-checking, and slapshots are not allowed
- Players must be 18 or older and registered with both USA Hockey and the league
- The season runs mid-October through late March — 18 games for A, B Major, and B Minor; the Emerald (C) season is 3 practices followed by 15 games
- Games are mostly on Sundays and weeknights, with very rare Saturdays. Late starts happen — occasional games begin as late as 10:00 p.m.
- The league runs on SportsEngine, which handles schedules, rosters, group chats, and announcements. You’ll need a SportsEngine account to register
- Questions? Email adulthockey@palouseicerink.com
Season Events & Tournaments
- Fun Fall League 2026
- Jim Stanaway Goalie Camp — Spring and fall goaltending camp, open to all ages
- Winter Adult League 2026–27 — Registration open
- Puck-a-Palousa — Late spring season tournament
- Emerald League Tourney 2027 — Spring tournament for Emerald (C) League players
