We are thrilled to introduce the NHL's Official Youth Street Hockey League in collaboration with the Victoria City Police Athletic Association (VCPAA)! At VCPAA, our passion lies in supporting youth activities across the Greater Victoria community, from Kindergarten to Grade 12. We sponsor youth athletics, fund extracurricular activities, and provide scholarships to help young individuals achieve their post-secondary goals.

In 2023, we proudly announced an exciting partnership between the Victoria Police Department, the Victoria Royals Organization, and NHL Street, marking the launch of the first NHL street hockey event in Canada. This event is a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to support the youth of Greater Victoria. NHL Street brings a fresh and thrilling energy to the sport of hockey, providing children from all backgrounds with an affordable opportunity to learn and play.

Together with the NHL and RCX Sports, a leader in youth sports experiences, NHL Street offers a unique and immersive hockey experience for children aged 6 to 16. Our young athletes get to feel like pros as they don authentic NHL Street uniforms and compete in high-energy, team-first leagues. Beyond fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and youth, this event aims to make hockey accessible to all at an affordable price point.

As we embark on our second year, the 2024 summer season promises even more excitement! From June 25th to July 30th, 2024, we will be hosting games in both Victoria and Langford. Every participant will receive an NHL reversible shirt as their team jersey, and games will take place in the parking lot of the Save-On Foods Memorial Arena in Victoria and Starlight Stadium in Langford. Registration opens on March 04th, 2024, and closes on April 26th, 2024. Late registrations may be accepted, so feel free to reach out to nhlstreetvictoria@vicpd.ca for more information.

Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about NHL Street:

**The Basics:**

Q: Who can play NHL Street?
A: Leagues are open to ages 6 to 16, and no previous hockey experience is required. NHL Street welcomes kids of all skill levels.

Q: What are the rules?
A: NHL Street has its own fast-paced and engaging gameplay model. Most leagues use a 4-on-4 setup, plus goalies, with games consisting of two 15-minute halves. Tie-breaks are settled with shoot-outs.

Q: What is the expected time commitment for participants?
A: The total time commitment is approximately 1 hour per week, with most leagues operating on a 6-, 8-, or 10-week cycle. Coaches hold a 20-minute practice before each game, and games consist of two 15-minute halves.

Q: What equipment is needed?
A: All participants receive a uniform as part of their registration. NHL Street leagues provide balls and goalie equipment, so players do not need to purchase or bring their own equipment. Helmets, gloves, shin-pads, mouthguards, and sweatbands are optional. We recommend a helmet with a face shield/visor. Skates, elbow and shoulder pads, ice hockey pants, and ice hockey goalie equipment are not permitted. Players may bring and use their own stick if it is suitable for street hockey.

**Getting Involved:**

Q: Where will NHL Street Victoria leagues be located?
A: Initially, NHL Street Victoria began in Victoria, but our goal is to expand and bring NHL Street Victoria to all neighborhoods within the Greater CRD. We will now be hosting games in both Victoria and Langford. Teams will play at both venues, and schedules will be determined closer to the start date.

Q: Does NHL Street Victoria host any special events?
A: Yes! NHL Street hosts festivals and showcases throughout the year, featuring music, food, skills challenges, and mini-games. These events provide newcomers with an introduction to the sport, while showcases offer tournament-style gameplay tailored to youth with experience in the game.

For the latest updates on festivals and showcases, follow @NHLStreetVictoria on Instagram.

We can't wait to hit the streets with you!