Medford Dek Hockey Rule Book Version 1.0

Rule Book Update Coming Soon as we adopt 2026 USABH rules with a few rink specific changes

MYAA Ball Hockey Divisions

Chipmunk: 4-6 year olds
Penguin: 7-9 year olds
Beaver: 10-12 year olds
Cadet: 13-15 year olds
Freshman: 16-19 year olds
Mens: 35+ (scroll to bottom for info)

Teams do not play more than 3 days a week
The schedule can change slightly based on registration numbers
Typically, Chipmunks play on Saturday mornings at 10am
Penguins play early evening on Wednesdays and Saturdays
Beavers typically play Tuesday and Thursday nights and Saturday afternoons
 Cadets play Monday evenings and Saturday late mornings   
Men's over 35: Thursdays

 

What is ball hockey?

Ball hockey is closely related to ice hockey with the main difference being the playing surface. Rather than skating on ice with a puck, players run and play with a specialized low bounce ball. Ball hockey can be played on various surfaces including tennis courts, indoor courts, streets, and dek floors.

So what is Dek Hockey then?

Dek hockey is a more specific version of ball hockey. Dek hockey can be played indoors on a smooth plastic tiled surface or outdoors on plastic tiles with holes for drainage.  Hockey equipment is required for safety but is often lighter than ice hockey since the ball doesn't weigh as much as a puck. And while incidental contact does occur, it is NOT a full contact sport. The checking that we are familiar with in ice hockey is not allowed.

What else should I know?

Our league is co-ed and provides children of all skill levels (brand new to seasoned travel players), ranging in age from 4-19 yrs with an opportunity to develop hockey skills in a fun, fast-paced atmosphere. Our goal is to help the children expand their athletic abilities, develop healthy habits, exhibit good sportsmanship, and learn the importance of being a team player.

When are practices and games?

Practices and games are scheduled by division and are held at the rinks at Hartford Crossing Park located at 120 Church Road in Medford. Teams do not play more than 3 days a week. The schedule can change slightly based on registration numbers. Typically, Chipmunks play on Saturday mornings at 10am. Penguins play early evening on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Beavers typically play Tuesday and Thursday nights and Saturday afternoons. Cadets play Monday evenings and Saturday late mornings. Men's League plays on Thursday nights. Pre-season practices generally fall during the same time slots as division games, but may occasionally be subject to change based on rink availability and coach’s schedule.  

How long does each season run?

The seasons run for 10 games plus a double elimination playoffs. In Fall 2026, we plan to extend seasons to 12 games.
Fall season starts with player evaluations around Labor Day. Evaluations ARE NOT tryouts. We use evaluations to make sure the teams are evenly matched. Teams are formed and jerseys ordered, with practices starting mid-September.  The season runs early October and generally wraps up early December. The week leading up to Halloween we proudly host our annual Halloween Havoc tournament. The tournament culminates with a playoff & championship round on the Saturday of the Medford Twp Halloween Parade. The kids are then welcome to walk in the parade with our float.

Spring season starts with player evals and team formations late March. Teams are formed and jerseys ordered, with practices starting early-mid April. The season will usually last into June with playoffs usually starting after Memorial Day.  We always aim to conclude the season before the school year ends but weather can play a part in that.
Renegades travel hockey season runs from December through May with some out-of-state tournaments held over the summer.

What equipment is required? 

HECC certified helmet with cage, street hockey stick (wood shaft, plastic blade, abs plastic or composite ice hockey stick), hockey shin guards, protective cup, elbow pads, hockey style gloves.  A mouthguard is optional.

Each player will receive a jersey at the start of the season.

What division do I sign my child up for again? 

Eligibility is based on your child's age as of January 1st of the current year

• Chipmunks are 4-6 years old

• Penguins are 7-9 years old

• Beavers are 10-12 years old

• Cadets are 13-15 years old

• Freshman are 16-19 years old 

Note: Girls are eligible to play an additional year in each division (e.g. a girl may play in the Penguin division through age 10).

How do I register?  

You can register at www.myaa.net, click on registration.  This will prompt you to login if you already have a login with MYAA, or you will create a new account.  You can also search Medford Dek Hockey MYAA on FB or Instagram and scan a QR code which will redirect you to the MYAA website to register. If you have any questions, difficulty registering, or are interested in volunteering for the league, please reach out to [email protected]

MENS 35+ LEAGUE INFORMATION

Registration Fee: $149 (includes all Referee fees and a team shirt)
During registration you'll be asked what grade you are in, scroll to over 35 and continue registration.
Dates: Spring is March-June and Fall September-January (all subject to change due to weather)

This league will be a "draft league".  We estimate a minimum 10 to 12 game season and playoffs with best of 3 final or double elimination bracket (subject to change).  We invite any people that have registered and those who are thinking about registering to attend the 3 weeks of Sunday pick-up games prior to drafting teams (dates will be determined).  We want to get to know each other and to meet with players interested in being team captains to manage their teams.  This league is for players 35 years old or older. If you are 34, check back at our next season in the spring or fall.  If you are a GOALIE please check the goalie box in the registration process.  The players are required to have the following equipment: street/dek hockey shin pads, hockey gloves (street or ice), elbow pads (any kind), hockey stick, helmets are highly recommend but optional. Referee fee for each game is included along with team jersey/shirt in your registration fee.

There is ZERO TOLERANCE for any fighting. Abuse of the referees or facilities and profanity will also NOT BE TOLERATED!  This is a league for men to get out and have some fun playing dek hockey.