About Women's Hockey

Icy Hot was formed in 2001, as a beginner team in the WHAM league in the Twin Cities. Many of our players had never played hockey before, and the rest had a year or two of experience. We've made great strides since then, placing 3rd in the C3 division and winning 3rd in state in the 2003-2004 season! Although the roster has changed through the years, our goal has remained the same: to have fun and improve our hockey skills!

What is WHAM?
Beginning with only a handful of players in the early 1970’s, currently there are over 800 players in Women's Hockey Association of Minnesota (WHAM), playing in five divisions. WHAM is a member of Minnesota Hockey and USA Hockey.

Who Can Play?
WHAM encourages girls and women of all age groups and skill levels to compete in the great sport of hockey. All skill levels are represented from the absolute beginner to the Olympic caliber player. Teams are classified according to the overall skill level. The ages of WHAM players ranges from 16 to 75 – that's correct, 75! Hats off to our senior citizen, Jane Ring. There truly is a place or team for anyone interested.

How is Women’s Hockey Different From Men’s Hockey?
There is no body checking allowed in women’s hockey. Skaters may "ride" another player off the puck, but a direct check is penalized. The result of this no-body-check rule is a game where players are able to concentrate on the skills of hockey – skating, passing, and shooting – and girls and women of all size and skill have an equal opportunity to compete. Women players wear full equipment including: approved helmet with facemask, shoulder pads, elbow pads, gloves, breezers (hockey pants), shin pads and skates. Recommended additional equipment may include: mouthguard, pelvic protector and neck guard.

Where is WHAM Hockey Played?
Teams are located throughout the state of Minnesota. The majority of teams are based in the Twin Cities Metro area, but a few are from as far away as Duluth. Teams play a home and away schedule throughout the season. Each team is responsible for booking their own ice for home games and practices. The season begins in late October and continues through early March.

Minnesota’s Hockey Tradition?
Minnesota has long been known as a producer of fine hockey players and WHAM follows that tradition. WHAM players have participated on national teams, in world tournaments, and in many East Coast Collegiate programs. Laura Halldorson, former WHAM skater, is the head coach for the University of Minnesota Women's Hockey team. Lynn Olson, WHAM skater, was the first woman to be elected to the board of directors of USA Hockey.