How to Participate

Who Can Play Ultimate Hockey?

Ultimate Hockey is built on an open, inclusive model.

To compete for a national 3x3 team, players must:

1. Hold a valid passport of the country they represent
2. Not have played for another country in an official 3x3 Ultimate Hockey event

Beyond that, participation is flexible.
 

Pathways for Players

National Associations may select players from:

• Professional clubs
• University teams
• Youth or junior programs
• Local or non-licensed leagues
• Community and development programs

3x3 opens doors for athletes who may not be part of traditional hockey pathways.
 

How Teams Are Chosen

Each IIHF Member National Association decides how to select its teams. They can:

• Hold tryouts
• Run national 3x3 leagues
• Select players from existing programs
• Partner with external organizations to support their teams

In countries with fewer resources, MNAs may also market team participation externally, similar to franchise models in other sports, while still managing sporting requirements.
 

Global Competition Path

• Breaking the Ice Tour → 2026
• UHL European Season → 2027
• UHL Worldwide Expansion → 2028
• Qualification system evolves with growth

Ultimate Hockey creates new competitive opportunities for countries at every level—and new pathways for fans, athletes, and teams to join the world’s fastest-growing winter sport.

Find out more: Q&As
Check the Game Manual