How to determine your draft skill level

The challenge and competition is part of what makes any game fun. When a player feels like they have no chance to win or when they completely dominate everyone one the ice, the enjoyment of the game goes down for everyone. Therefore, we offer different levels so everyone can enjoy healthy competition that matches their ability level. The WPL reserves the right to move a player to a division that matches their ability. Honest mistakes happen when determining your level; however, players or teams who knowingly or frequently sign up below their abilities may be removed from a league without refund. 

Please contact us at info@wplgp.ca if you need help determining which level might be right for you.

General Guidelines

Levels typically range from 1 through 5 where 1 level players are experts and 5 level players are beginners. In some cases, we may further break down levels for a better understanding on where you may fit.  

All players, regardless of level, are expected to skate within their abilities to maintain their own safety and the safety of everyone else on the ice. For example, if you have trouble stopping, rushing the net should not be your go to tactic.

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Level 5 (Beginner/Novice)

Level 5 is usually for skaters who started playing hockey as adults or didn't play much competitive hockey growing up. These skaters did not play hockey in clubs, high school or college. Skaters in this level are often new to the game and may have difficulty maintaining balance on skates, stopping, passing, or shooting. At the top end of this level are players who have five or more years experience playing hockey as an adult and are starting to master the fundamentals. In some cases, older players who used to play at the 4-level, may move down to the 5 level to reflect their age or physical condition.

Level 4 (Low to Intermediate Skill)

At the 4 level, players have good control on the ice. They have developed the basic skills required for the game like passing, shooting, and positional awareness, but are not experts in those skills. Often, players at the 4 level have a few years of experience with hockey at the A, AA level. Some 4 players are those that started at the 5 level and have advanced their skills through multiple years of playing as an adult and/or improving their skills by participating in our league.

Level 3 (Mid/High Intermediate Skill)

Players at this level are relatively fast moving and at this level have solid control and balance on the ice.  They have developed their passing, shooting, and positional awareness beyond the basic level. AA and AAA club level experience or Jr C hockey experience are typical among players at this level. In some cases, older players who used to play at the 2 or 1 level might move down to this level for a slower pace of play.

Level 2 (Advanced Skill)

Players at this level have advanced skills in skating, passing, shooting, and/or positional awareness. Players at this level typically have great hockey IQ and have played Collegiate D3, College Club, Junior A or B or players that have at least High School hockey experience. 

Level 1 (Expert)

Players at this level have played at the D1 or D3 NCAA College level or played as a professional hockey athlete. Excellent hockey IQ and situational awareness.