The Nova Scotia Minor Ball Hockey League (NSMBHL) is a community-based youth sport program that helps kids play, improve, and fall in love with sport through ball hockey. We run organized, safe, and fun sessions that build skills, confidence, and friendships.

Why we do what we do?

·         Sport helps kids build healthy habits that last.

·         Sport teaches life skills: confidence, teamwork, respect, and resilience.

·         Sport is a great way to make new buddies and have fun.

Who we are?

·         We operate with a small leadership team and a group of youth sport leaders hired as League Managers.

·         League Managers run game-day operations and help build strong relationships with players and families.

·         We also hire and train referees to keep games safe, fair, and fun.

Where we play?

·         Our divisions originated in Halifax, Sackville, East Hants, Dartmouth, and Bedford.

·         In 2026 we will play games at Lebrun Arena, Greenfoot 4-pad, Gray Arena and at the Gorsebrook outdoor Ball Hockey Court.  We have confirmed that the Sackville Arena and east Hants Sportsplex will not be available

·         Our goal is to schedule your team at a consistent time and appreciate the venue may change based on availability.

Who can play?

·         NSMBHL is for kids of all skill levels - including first-time hockey players.

·         We welcome families new to Canada and players with high-level ice hockey experience.

·         Over the years, many of our players have been new to hockey. The main requirement is a great attitude and a willingness to hustle.

Age groups

·         Our core age groups are U7, U9, U11, U13, and U15 (determined by birth year).

·         Age groups may be modified and/or combined depending on registration numbers in a particular division.

·         If numbers allow, we may offer both a Recreation and Competitive division.

Season format

·         A typical season includes 12 sessions. ( Guaranteed 18 games plus skills training for u7 and u9)

·         Teams generally play once per week, and we aim for a consistent time each week when possible.

·         Schedules and locations depend on facility availability, so flexibility is appreciated.

Game format

·         Each session is one hour and is divided into two 30-minute sections.

·         Teams generally play two games per session.

·         Teams are co-ed.

·         Most youth divisions play cross-rink 4v4 plus a goalie (see Our Rules and Required Equipment).

Skills and drills (U7 and U9)

·         U7 and U9 may include Skills and Drills during the first part of the season.

·         A typical Skills and Drills session includes 30 minutes of skill work followed by a 30-minute game.

·         We will focus on passing, stickhandling, shooting and running with the ball.

Officials

·         Each game is officiated by trained NSMBHL officials (referees and scorekeeping support).

·         Officials attend training before the season to ensure games are safe and fair.

·         Refereeing is a paid position.

Volunteer coaches

·         Parents and guardians are encouraged to volunteer as coaches.

·         We provide a coaching clinic before the season and clear expectations for the role.

·         Our goal is three coaches per team (Head Coach plus Assistants) to ensure reliable coverage.

Registration

·         Registration is online through our website.

·         Create a GrayJay account, then register for NSMBHL at nsmbhl.ca.

·         Questions? Email admin@nsmbhl.ca.

We look forward to welcoming you and your player. If you enjoy NSMBHL, please tell your friends!