ISHL Varsity Program
ISHL
Interscholastic High School League (ISHL)
The ISHL is dedicated to promoting high school hockey and establishing new teams across Houston and surrounding areas to achieve 100% participation from named schools as swiftly as possible. Our aim is to provide the high school ice hockey experience to a broad range of high school athletes. While our ideal is teams comprised entirely of players from specific schools, given the newness of high school hockey in Houston, this isn't always feasible. Therefore, any remaining roster slots after placing players from individual schools will be filled with players from other schools within the district or neighboring districts. The ISHL is committed to fostering a premier high school ice hockey program in Houston, adhering closely to all school district regulations, including the No Pass/No Play rule. We encourage and support teams to attain official club status through their school administration promptly.
Registration is now open for Varsity programs!
ELIGIBILITY
For players to be eligible for the 2021-22 ISHL season, they must meet the following criteria for each league:
Varsity Eligibility - Freshman to Seniors
VARSITY
The ISHL Varsity program is our flagship offering, comprising 11 teams from Houston, San Antonio, and College Station. Players will try out for their nearest division (south or north) if they are not already zoned to a named team.
TEAM FORMATION
Tryouts are tentatively scheduled for the 2nd Week of September. The regular season begins in early October and runs until March/April.
ZONING DISTRICTS
Non-named school skaters are considered draft skaters and will participate in the tryout draft. Zoning districts haven't yet been established for the 2024-25 season.
SEASON DETAILS
- Duration: Early September to just after spring break in April
- Games: Typically on Friday and/or Sunday nights, with Sunday mid-morning or early afternoon games against San Antonio teams. Games consist of 3-15 minute stop-clock periods.
- Locations: Willowbrook (Aerodrome Ice Rink) or Sugar Land ice rinks.
- Practice: Once a week for 60 minutes at Willowbrook, Sugar Land, or Bellerive.
- Level of Play: From U18AA players to freshmen house players, offering a range of skill levels.
- Checking: Full checking is allowed.
- Playing Time: Ice time is not equal across all players.
- Academics: The league follows UIL academic policy and is a no pass no play league.
- Cost: Approximately $1,200 per season, with additional fees possible for uniforms, apparel, or team expenses.
TEAM OPERATIONS
Teams manage themselves, selecting coaches, managers, uniforms, and additional activities. Additional fees may apply for team expenses.
FAQs
- Football Conflict: Players can sign up and try out but may need to wait until the football season ends to participate fully.
- Decision to Play: Registering and trying out gives players the option to decide later; non-registration results in inability to play.
- Players from Outside Houston: Only San Antonio players are eligible, with rare exceptions.
- Girls Participation: Absolutely, with several teams having girls on their rosters.
- Unusual School Situations: Final determinations are made by the ISHL.
- Goalies: A separate draft is held for goalies.
- Travel Hockey Players: You can play both ISHL and travel hockey due to our schedule's compatibility.
Join ISHL for an exciting and competitive high school hockey experience!