Power Play
An organized hockey league brings skaters to the rink.
Wild-ice skating and pond hockey are casual, athletic ways of getting on the ice around Bozeman, but for those seeking more structure, there’s an organization in town that provides in blades… er, spades: the Bozeman Adult Hockey Association (BAHA). Dave Weaver, a lifetime hockey player and adult-league director since 2015, heads up the association, organizing six leagues every year—ranging from the super-competitive A league, all the way through “Greenhorns” for players who have never before stepped on the ice.
“I always tell people that games should be the best part of their day.” says Weaver. “I want you at work thinking, I’m so pumped I have a game tonight. It just becomes a night out where you get to play, compete, get good exercise, and learn a sport that’s obviously difficult to learn. People just have so much fun with it.”
'The hockey community in Bozeman is one of the most inclusive, welcoming communities I’ve ever seen for adult sports,' says Creel Smith.
Every year, about 900 players take to the Fairgrounds’ two indoor rinks, where an entire community of hockey-minded individuals don pads, helmets, and skates. Body-checking isn’t allowed in any of the leagues; however, some contact is just part of the sport, and players of all skill levels can expect to hit the deck at some point. Fighting is strictly off-limits and is grounds for immediate ejection from the league.
For many players, it’s the highlight of the winter. “The hockey community in Bozeman is one of the most inclusive, welcoming communities I’ve ever seen for adult sports,” says Creel Smith, who’s progressively worked his way up to the A league over the last several seasons. “It’s daunting to get into something new as an adult, and the league is an outlet to get together, learn, and enjoy something really special that the community has to offer.”
While competing with old and new friends alike is the best part for many players, Weaver gets particularly excited watching new players gain basic skills and competence on the ice. “When I first started Greenhorns, I had 37 signups in two days,” he recalls. “I knew there was demand for it, but had no idea to that extent.” To prospective players who might be intimidated by the idea of skating or playing hockey he adds, “Just give it a try. Once it bites you, it becomes addictive, just with the friendships and the whole atmosphere.”
Regardless of skill level, though, there’s a place for everyone—men and women alike—to get in on the action with BAHA.
As a testament to the camaraderie and community around BAHA, Weaver says about 300 fans showed up to watch the E-league championships last winter—more people than came out for all the other more-competitive leagues. “I should’ve sold tickets to that game,” he laughs. “The excitement at the lower levels is really, really fun.”
Regardless of skill level, though, there’s a place for everyone—men and women alike—to get in on the action with BAHA. This year’s season is well underway, but interested players should keep an eye out for the next Greenhorn session, starting in January. BAHA also hosts “puck lunches” and skills clinics throughout the year, for skaters to improve their skills or just get on the ice in the off-season. For more information, visit gallatinice.org.
