How to Start a High School or Middle School Ball Hockey Team
Your Step-by-Step Playbook to Join the HWB Ball Hockey Leagues
Starting a ball hockey team might seem like a big task—but with the right approach, it’s all about organizing your passion, rallying your school, and tapping into your local network. Whether you’re a coach, teacher, parent, or just someone who loves the game, this guide gives you the blueprint to get your team off the ground and into the league.
Step 1: Understand the Mission
Top Cheez Sports Initiative’s HWB Middle School and High School Leagues are about inclusion, community, and breaking the barriers to hockey. No ice. No skates. Just sneakers, sticks, and the open rink. We're proud members of USA Ball Hockey (USABH), and all players and coaches must hold a valid USABH membership before completing league registration.
Step 2: Get the Green Light
Approach School Leadership:
Meet with administrators, athletic directors, or after-school coordinators to present the opportunity. Bring printed materials or share our website link.
Emphasize that this is an official, structured sport with insurance coverage, coaching support, and league rules.
Highlight benefits like fitness, community pride, inclusion, and a low-cost, high-energy option for school spirit.
Step 3: Recruit Players
Target Grades:
Middle School League: Ages 11–13
High School League: Ages 14–17
Use school announcements, flyers, social media, or word-of-mouth.
Host an informal “open gym” or info meeting. You bring the sticks and balls, we’ll help provide the promotional flyers.
Step 4: Secure Team Support
Funding doesn’t have to be a hurdle. Here’s how to play it smart:
Local Business Sponsors:
Law firms, dental offices, doctors, chiropractors, car dealerships, and local franchises often support youth sports for community goodwill and marketing.
Offer logo placement on shirts or banners in exchange for donations.
Fundraising Ideas:
Team car wash
Restaurant percentage nights
Candy/snack sales
Online donation campaigns
Grants & Boosters:
Ask your school’s parent/teacher organization or athletic booster club for help.
Use platforms like DonorsChoose, GoFundMe, or community foundation grants.
Step 5: Register Your Team
All coaches and players must register with USA Ball Hockey for insurance and eligibility.
Once that’s complete, visit our [League Registration Page] to sign up your team for the season.
Have your roster ready
Know your school’s contact person (or designate one)
Make sure uniforms and basic equipment are in order
Step 6: Gear Up
All you need:
Sneakers
A stick (we’ll help connect you with equipment partners)
Team shirts (we can assist with suppliers and affordable jersey options)
We’ll provide balls, referees, scorekeepers, and structured gameplay.
Step 7: Build the Vibe
Encourage team spirit, sportsmanship, and creativity.
Decorate your bench. Design a logo. Make team playlists.
Ball hockey is more than a sport—it’s a movement. Bring the culture.
Final Note
You don’t have to be a hockey expert to coach. You just have to care. We’re here to help you every step of the way. This is grassroots hockey, done right—with swagger, structure, and support.
Ready to Start?
Get your USABH Membership
Rally your school
Register your team
Let’s GO!
