About the New York Islanders High School Hockey League (NYIHSHL)

Developing Student-Athletes through the Sport of Ice Hockey

The New York Islanders High School Hockey League (NYIHSHL), formerly known as the High School Hockey League of Nassau County (HSHLNC), was established in 1995. As a non-profit organization, the league is committed to fostering a love for hockey while promoting essential values like sportsmanship, teamwork, and leadership among students from middle school through high school.

In 2018, the league was renamed to the NYIHSHL as part of a new partnership with the New York Islanders, one of the first NHL clubs to officially support a high school hockey league. The league continues to benefit from this collaboration, occasionally hosting important events at UBS Arena and the Northwell Ice Center.

Who We Serve

Each year, the NYIHSHL provides over 800 student-athletes from public and private high schools across Nassau County the chance to compete in the sport they love. The league operates three divisions to accommodate players at different skill levels:

Varsity Division: For students in 9th-12th grades. USA Hockey governs this division.
Junior Varsity Division: For students in 8th-10th grades. This division operates under the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU).
Middle School Division: For students in 5th-7th grades also under the AAU.

Building Skills for Life

More than just a hockey league, the NYIHSHL emphasizes character development through the sport. Our players learn:

Leadership and teamwork
Integrity and self-discipline
Positive decision-making both on and off the ice

The league is designed to prepare students for success not only in sports but also in their academic and personal lives.

League Operations and Support

The NYIHSHL is proud to be supported by the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) and is officially registered with organizations like USA Hockey and the National Federation of State High School Associations. Our board of directors, coaches, and staff are dedicated to creating a positive, competitive environment where young athletes can thrive.

The NYIHSHL takes great pride in its partnership with the New York Islanders and in offering student-athletes access to premier facilities like UBS Arena and Northwell Ice Center for key events, including All-Star Games and championships.

A Legacy of Success

With approximately 50 teams across all divisions, the NYIHSHL provides a platform for hundreds of young athletes to compete at a high level while maintaining a focus on academic achievement, responsibility, and sportsmanship. Our program encourages growth, both as players and as individuals, ensuring a lifelong love for the game of hockey.