How do I get involved?
If you play hockey, want to learn to play hockey, or are a fan of hockey, we would love to connect with you! Come say hi at one of our events, cheer on one of our teams at a local game, send an email to info@pittsburghlgbtq.hockey, join our mailing list(s), or follow us on social media.
Do I need to have hockey experience to play with you?
Our beginner clinics are open to folks of all hockey skill levels, including true beginners! We recommend having minimal prior skating experience for safety reasons, but our clinics often focus on skating fundamentals, so if you can stand on your own two feet, we can help teach you the rest!
We also have a mentorship program available for brand new skaters or folks who are interested in being connected with an existing member of our community! Among other things, a mentor can join you at open skates, help you suit up in loaner gear at a clinic or shop for your own kit, keep you posted on upcoming events, and just serve as a general resource as you get more involved with Pittsburgh LGBTQ+ Hockey. If you're interested in being paired with a mentor, regardless of your prior experience, let us know when you sign up for our mailing list or send us an email!
To join one of our teams, some hockey experience is required. Beginners who have gained experience at our clinics can join the TigerSharks; more advanced skaters with prior experience may be able to join the Tigers roster.
How old do I have to be to participate?
Pittsburgh LGBTQ+ Hockey's beginner clinics and hockey teams are 18+. However, our open skates and most off-ice events are family friendly and open to all ages! Some off-ice events are 18+ or 21+; these will be advertised as such.
Do I have to be LGBTQ+ to join Pittsburgh LGBTQ+ Hockey?
No! We have plenty of allies in the organization and welcome all folks who are part of or support the LGBTQ+ community.
Do you have women, trans, and gender non-conforming folks in the organization?
Absolutely! Other than age in some cases, there are no restrictions on who can join us, and Pittsburgh LGBTQ+ Hockey welcomes folks of all identities.
What gear do I need to play hockey with you? Where can I get gear? How do I know what to get?
A helmet, gloves, skates, pads (shoulder, elbow, shin, and pants), and a stick are required to participate. We also recommend a jock/jill with a cup/pelvic protector.
Skater gear is available to borrow for our beginner clinics. Once you're ready for your own gear, Play It Again sports has used, affordable gear in stores and online. You can also check out any of the pro shops in the area, including Pure Hockey and Perani's.
If you're looking for help shopping for gear, one of our mentors would be happy to help! Reach out via email or our contact form, and we can pair you up with someone.
How much does it cost to join Pittsburgh LGBTQ+ Hockey?
Off-ice event costs may vary but most are limited to what you purchase at the event (food/beverage, activities, etc). Open skate costs typically range from free to $15. Our beginner clinics are offered free of charge ($20 suggested donation). Season dues for full-time rostered players are typically between $140-$180, depending on rink costs.
I don't want to skate, but I still want to support Pittsburgh LGBTQ+ Hockey. What can I do to help?
As we continue to grow, we'll need help! If you have skills around growing an organization - including marketing, web design, recruitment, fundraising, event planning, etc - and/or the time to volunteer, we'd love to have you join our efforts! Shoot us an email for more info!
Additionally, Pittsburgh LGBTQ+ Hockey is a 501(c)(3) organization, and financial donations of any size are always welcome and appreciated. Check out our Donate page for more info!
