Start an adult recreational hockey club

Adult players of all levels, often former players returning to the game or newcomers who want a social team. Some clubs also get sponsor money from local businesses.

Seasonal or monthly membership fees per player, with sponsor contributions on top. Your margin is what is left after ice rental, referees, insurance and jerseys.

• Organizing schedules and people
• Friendly, reliable communication
• Basic bookkeeping
• Knowledge of the game

• Ice rental is a big fixed cost, so check contract terms and cancellation rules before you book a full season
• Check whether you need to be sanctioned through Hockey Canada or your provincial branch to use certain rinks or leagues
• Commercial general liability and player accident insurance, check what the arena requires
• Injury risk and waivers, ask an insurer or lawyer about the right wording
• Check whether your club is better set up as a business or a non-profit, and when you need to register for GST/HST

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $6,000, depending on ice rental commitments, jerseys, referees and insurance. Ice rental is a big fixed cost, so check contract and cancellation terms before booking a full season.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on player numbers, fees and any sponsor money from local businesses. Ice time is your biggest fixed cost, so it affects what is left over.

Check whether you need to be sanctioned through Hockey Canada or your provincial branch to use certain rinks or leagues. Also check arena insurance requirements, waiver wording with an insurer or lawyer, and whether to set up as a business or non-profit.