You showed up to your first beer league game, someone said "you're on left wing," and you nodded like you knew what that meant. We've all been there. Here's what every hockey position actually does, written for adults who started skating after they started paying a mortgage.
Each team has six players on the ice: three forwards (a center and two wingers), two defensemen, and a goaltender. Forwards focus on scoring, defensemen protect the zone and start breakouts, and the goalie is the last line of defense (and the only person allowed to treat the crease like a personal apartment).
The center takes faceoffs, plays both ends of the ice, and connects everyone. In beer league that means a lot of skating. If your lungs are great and your chirps are better, center is your spot. Nobody said it was fun after the third shift, though.
Left wing and right wing patrol the boards, finish plays, and get open for passes. Wing is the friendliest spot for new players because the job is simple: stay on your side, shoot when you can, and help in the defensive zone. Pro tip: that last part is not optional.
Defensemen clear the front of the net, break up plays, and make the first pass out. A good beer league D-man keeps it simple: don't get beat wide, move the puck, and don't try the toe drag. If you can skate backwards even a little, this spot is for you. If you can't yet, our guide on how to stop in hockey is a good first step.
Every rec league needs goalies, and almost nobody wants to be one. It takes serious gear and a certain mental toughness, but a willing goalie never has to look for a team. Just know that the gear is its own budget conversation. Start with our equipment checklist to see what you'd be signing up for.
New to the game? Try wing or defense, tell your captain your skill level honestly (see beer league skill levels explained), and rotate as you get comfortable. Positions in rec hockey are suggestions with friendly guardrails, and most teams will let you try different spots. Ready to find a team? Here's how to find a beer league team in Utah.
The Utah Glizzies play at the Utah Mammoth Ice Center in Sandy. All skill levels, all positions, hot dogs optional but encouraged.
Meet the Team Go to The Pit