The 12 Commandments of Beginner League
- Thou shalt check in and pay (unless you paid in full for the season) in the Pro Shop prior to the game.
- Thou shalt skate under control at all times.
- If you need to, slow down to maintain control.
- Skating out of control endangers both you and other players.
- Thou shalt not check other players.
- All adult leagues at the Skatium are non-checking.
- Thou shalt focus on improving skills, not the competitive side.
- This league is for learning the skills to play and basics of the game.
- If you want to play in a competitive environment, play in D League. However, D League recommends players to be able to skate in control, so again, focus on gaining more control rather than speed. Speed will come.
- As players improve, they should focus on learning additional skills, not driving the score up.
- Additional skills could include skating backwards, crossovers, passing and/or receiving passes, learning/playing a different position, working on a weaker side, helping newer players get a goal, etc.
- Thou shalt be a good sport.
- Be a good loser. Don’t slam or throw your stick or other equipment.
- Thou shalt celebrate with dignity and decorum, particularly if your team is ahead by 5 or more goals, or if you have already scored more than 4 or 5 lifetime goals.
- Thou shalt congratulate and celebrate others, especially new players, even if they are on the other team.
- Thou shalt respect the referees.
- The referees are people, are not perfect, and cannot see everything on the ice at the same time.
- In this league, the referees are open to players asking questions, particularly about rules and “why”, as long as you do so in a respectful manner.
- If you would like to question a call against them, it is a good idea to have your captain do so. Technically only captains and assistant captains can approach referees to discuss a call.
- Thou shalt respect the captains and their decisions.
- The captains have you play in a certain position or on a certain line for a reason, whether it is to improve your skills or as a player, or to improve someone else’s skills. Be a team player and help them help you and others.
- Thou shalt respect the other players.
- Thou shalt respect the game by embracing and accepting these commandments.
- Thou shalt have fun.
