The first organized multi-state adult sled league in the United States

The Northeast Sled Hockey League (NESHL) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2005 so regional sled hockey teams could play competitive, sportsmanlike hockey together. It became the first organized, multi-state adult sled hockey league in the United States. Athletes and teams come from Maine to Maryland and west to Ohio.

NESHL's mission emphasizes teamwork, commitment, and sportsmanship in an inclusive environment. The league has produced numerous Paralympians and remains a cornerstone of adaptive hockey development in the Northeast.

Adults with and without disabilities

NESHL is a co-ed adult competitive league open to people with and without physical disabilities. Players range from beginners to former and current Paralympians. The league's published athlete profile describes male and female athletes ages 15 to 60. Most athletes have a mobility impairment, and approximately 22% are disabled veterans.

Athletes, families, and volunteers represent communities across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Maine, Ohio, Delaware, Virginia, and Maryland.

Many NESHL alumni have gone on to represent the men's and women's USA Sled Hockey teams at international events, including the Paralympic Games.

Fast, physical, and skillful

Sled hockey is played sitting on a sled with two blades under the seat. Players use two sticks: each has a hockey blade on one end and metal picks on the other for pushing across the ice. Competitive sled hockey includes the same speed, physical play, shooting, passing, and penalty killing that make stand-up hockey exciting.

Adult competitive league

NESHL provides high-level recreational and advanced amateur play. Skill levels range from beginners to former and current Paralympians, with divisions organized to keep competition balanced.

Games follow most USA Hockey rules, with specific modifications for sled hockey:

• Three 15-minute stop-time periods
• Hybrid icing
• Shootouts for tied games
• Running clock when the goal differential reaches five or more in the third period
• Mandatory neck guards for all players
• Specific equipment requirements for sleds and sticks

The league's connection to US National and Paralympic programs means many players train at an elite level.

Season format

NESHL uses a points-based standings system:

• Win: 2 points
• Overtime/Shootout Loss: 1 point
• Regulation Loss: 0 points

This system keeps standings competitive throughout the season. Playoffs feature round-robin standings and bracketed semifinal/final games, with results updated after each playoff weekend.

Current-season standings, schedules, and scoring leaders are on this page, with official league updates on NESHL.org.

Competitive hockey with a wider purpose

NESHL aims to help people with and without disabilities develop as athletes, leaders, and community members through committed, disciplined, team-oriented competition.

• Provide fun, competitive sled hockey for people with mobility impairments.
• Develop players for local, regional, and national teams.
• Increase awareness through clinics, presentations, and outreach.
• Build independence, responsibility, teamwork, and other life skills.
• Create positive shared experiences for athletes, families, and friends.

Play, volunteer, or support

Whether you're interested in playing, volunteering, or supporting adaptive sports, NESHL welcomes your involvement. The league promotes awareness of adaptive sports and supports athlete development, confidence, and community building.

Visit the NESHL website