Elite Prospects Insight Library: The North American Hockey Pyramid
The North American Hockey Pyramid
With over 750,000 youth athletes in North America each year, hockey continues to grow across the United States. As more families are introduced to the sport, it’s a great time to explore the different levels of hockey and understand the path from a six-year-old stepping onto the ice for the first time to becoming an NHL star.
The Foundation: Youth Hockey
Youth Recreational Hockey
From South Florida to Alaska, hundreds of thousands of young players in Canada and the United States form the foundation of the game. Growing this base and ensuring more kids have the opportunity to experience hockey is essential. Like any pyramid, the strength of the structure depends on the health of its base.
Tier 2 Youth Hockey
This level introduces players to competitive travel hockey, whether at the AA or A level. Many players at this stage dream of reaching the "big leagues." Tier 2 teams typically spend more time on the ice and play more games than recreational teams.
Tier 1 Youth Hockey
The highest level of youth hockey, Tier 1—also known as AAA—represents the top of the youth pyramid. However, the labels "AAA" and "Elite" are often used loosely, and not all AAA teams are created equal. Programs like the Pittsburgh Penguins Elite and the Toronto Jr. Canadiens consistently rank at the top, but in some cases, a strong Tier 2 team can defeat a lower-level Tier 1 team. It’s important not to get too caught up in the number of A’s in a team’s name.
Junior and College Hockey
Tier 2 Junior/College Hockey
This is one of the more complex levels of the pyramid. Often an extension of youth hockey, Tier 2 junior and college hockey is usually "pay to play," but it has still served as a stepping stone for many players. With the recent NCAA/CHL eligibility ruling, this tier may become more defined in the coming years.
Tier 1 Junior/College Hockey
The highest level of non-professional hockey, this tier includes the NCAA, the Canadian Hockey League (CHL), and the United States Hockey League (USHL). These leagues act as the primary feeder systems for professional hockey. Generally, there are no costs to play at this level, though players do not receive salaries.
Professional Hockey
Not much explanation is needed here. Led by the NHL, professional hockey represents the top of the pyramid—where players are fortunate enough to get paid to play the game they love.
Levels Within Each Tier
Within each tier, there are multiple levels. For example, at the professional level, the hierarchy includes the NHL, AHL, and ECHL.
Lower down the pyramid, the distinctions become less clear. This is where MyHockeyRankings can help. Their rating system allows parents and coaches to understand where their team fits into the bigger picture.
The Impact of the NCAA Rule Change
Historically, players from the Canadian Hockey League were ineligible to compete in NCAA athletics. However, a recent ruling overturned that restriction, creating a major shift in the junior hockey landscape.
Leagues like the BCHL, which traditionally focused on developing players for NCAA hockey, may see a shift in their role. Now that CHL players can pursue college hockey, the expectation is that Tier 2 will become a true feeder system for Tier 1, making it easier for families to navigate their options.
While the transition may come with growing pains, this change should ultimately bring more clarity to the development path.
Final Thoughts
No matter where you play, the most important thing to remember is that hockey is a sport—one that instills great values in children and brings people together. Wherever you find yourself in the hockey pyramid, we’re all lucky to be part of the greatest game on earth.