FAQ
These are some commonly asked questions when people are joining our programming. The site contains much of these details as well as others related to specfic programming and functions of the board so please refer to the About, Programs, Teams, Schedule and Resources sections for additional answers.
When does the season start?
Icers
- Tryouts are in April, generally we take everyone and there is rolling enrolment
- Practices start late August and runs through March
Saber Cats (Spring)
- Sign ups are in January, there is no tryout and we take everyone we can
- Season runs mid April through beginning of June
Keystone Wild
- Try outs are in April, there are tryouts and cuts aggressiveness is age and enrollment dependent
- Season begins practice mid June and goes until mid August
- Game schedules are age group dependent. 10/12 are prior to start of Icers season, 14,16,18 practice and go to events more regularly throughout the season
How many teams do you have?
It depends on the age and year but generally..
- 8U - 2-3 teams
- 10U - 2-3 teams
- 12U - 2-3 teams
- 14U - 1-3 teams
- 16U/18U - 1-2 teams
How big are teams?
It depends on the age and enrollments but these are our general targets:
- 8U - 8-10 skaters, everyone tries goalie
- 10U - 10-11 skaters, many try goalie
- 12U - 12-14 skaters, 1-2 goalies, usually split or dedicated to position
- 14U - 12-15 skaters, 2 goalies dedicated to position
- 18U/16U - 15-18 skaters, 2 goalies dedicated to position
How much does it cost?
As a non-profit, costs are relative to our fundraising efforts, the team you are playing for, and number of players in the association. For the 2025-26 Icers season the cost was $1,600.
Who do you play?
- Icers play in PAHL and typically play teams in the greater Pittsburgh area as far West as Youngstown Ohio and as far South as Wheeling West Virginia. State College is the furthest East team. Divisional opponents vary based on skill alignment year to year.
- Saber Cats (Spring) participate in tournaments and have variable opponents as a result
- Keystone Wild participate in tournaments and have variable opponents as a result
How much travel is involved?
- Icers 8U participate in 8 jamborees throughout their season where many opponents come together. Expect 3-5 trips to away opponents where multiple opponents come together for an hour of smaller, cross ice games.
- Icers 10U participate in 6 preseason games in October, then 14 regular season games. All teams make the playoffs (Called ODSETS) which takes place in March and has multiple games that weekend. Anticipate 10 away games + ODSETS
- Icers 12U-18U teams play 22-26 games; 2-4 preseason, 20 regular season, and playoffs for teams that earn a spot. Anticipate 12 away games + potentially playoffs.
- Saber Cats teams participate in 1 to 2 tournaments which are usually a Friday - Sunday event within a 4 hour drive
- Wild teams participate in a variance of tournaments and exhibition games. Check with your coach about time requirements.
Where is the home rink?
Pegula Ice Arena is located on Penn Stat University's campus
Can I register midway through the season?
We have open enrollment in most programs. Reach out to a board member and they can let you know what programming is available for your child.
Can I skate 7-days a week?
Just like any athletic activity, having 1-2 rest days are important for recovery and strength building.
Can I skate year round?
Absolutely! We encourage it!
How often should I have my skates sharpened?
This depends on how often you skate. On average, 4-8 weeks is recommended. If you are skating approximately 2-3 times a week then you are probably going to need them sharpened once every 6 weeks.