League Rules

1. General Overview

UCHL is a competitive hockey league that operates under a structured set of rules to ensure fair play, sportsmanship, and competitive balance.

2. Season Structure

• Each season consists of a regular season followed by playoffs
• Regular season spans 20+ games per team
• Top 3 teams from each division qualify for the playoffs
• #1 seeds receive a first round bye
• Playoffs follow a best-of-7 series format

3. Player Eligibility

• Players must be registered with the league
• Minimum age requirement: 16 years old
• Players may only play for one team at a time
• Free agency opens after the trade deadline

4. Roster Limits

• Maximum roster size: 25 players
• Minimum roster size: 18 players
• Salary cap: $700,000 USD per team
• Maximum contract length: 3 seasons

5. Match Rules

• Games are played in Hockey League mode
• Period length: 5 minutes
• Mercy rule: 10-goal lead after 2 periods ends the game
• Minimum 8 players required to start a match

6. Code of Conduct

• Respect opponents, teammates, and officials
• No toxic behavior, harassment, or hate speech
• Players must maintain good sportsmanship
• Violations may result in suspensions or bans

7. Discipline

The league reserves the right to issue penalties for rule violations, including but not limited to:

• Game suspensions
• Fine penalties
• Draft pick forfeitures
• Expulsion from the league